Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Hair Extensions

Hair extensions are the perfect way to add length and volume to your hair, but they require extra care and attention to ensure they stay looking their best. Whether you have tape-in, clip-in, or sew-in extensions, there are certain things you should and shouldn't do to keep them in top condition. Let's dive into some of the do's and don'ts of hair extension care.

Do: Invest in a silk pillowcase and silk hair ties. Not only do these feel luxurious, but they also help your hair (and skin) retain moisture. This is especially important when you have hair extensions, as they can become dry and brittle without proper hydration.

Don't: Use products with SLS, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Alcohol Denat, Sodium Laureth Sulphate, Ethanol, SD Alcohol 40, Propanol, Isopropyl, or Propyl. These ingredients can strip away moisture and cause frizz, leading to damage and breakage over time. Instead, opt for water-soluble silicone (look for 'PEG' or 'PPG' in front of the word silicone) to create a protective shield that helps your hair retain moisture.

Do: Use a loop brush or boar bristle brush to detangle your hair extensions. Ordinary brushes can pull and damage the extensions, causing them to become matted and tangled. Brush your hair extensions daily to keep them looking their best, and separate any rings or links using your fingers.

Don't: Overuse purple shampoo. While it's great for toning blonde hair and keeping brassiness at bay, using it too often can cause your hair to dry out. Stick to using it once a week, or as needed, and be sure to follow up with a hydrating conditioner.

Do: Use an intense moisture hydrating mask once a week to rehydrate your hair extensions. This will help to restore moisture and prevent damage, keeping your extensions looking shiny and healthy.

Don't: Use products that contain keratin or protein, as these can throw off the moisture balance and make your extensions more prone to damage, breakage, and frizz.

Do: Dry your hair extensions gently with a hair dryer on low-medium heat. High heat can compromise the adhesive on tape hair extensions, leading to slippage and damage. When sleeping, either plait or loosely tie your hair up to prevent tangles and matting.

Don't: Wash your hair for 48-72 hours after the application of tape and skin weft hair extensions. This will give the adhesive time to

settle and bond properly with your natural hair. Washing too soon can cause the extensions to slip or become tangled.

Do: Trim your hair extensions regularly to remove split ends and keep them looking healthy. This is especially important for clip-in extensions, which can become damaged from repeated use.

Don't: Use hot styling tools on your hair extensions without using a heat protectant first. High temperatures can cause damage and breakage, especially on synthetic extensions. Stick to low to medium heat settings, and avoid using hot tools directly on the adhesive areas of tape-in extensions.

By following these do's and don'ts of hair extension care, you can keep your extensions looking beautiful and healthy for longer. Remember to be gentle when brushing and styling, and to use products that hydrate and protect your hair extensions. With the right care, your hair extensions can become a seamless and natural-looking part of your daily routine.