Caring for your Hair and Hair Extensions 

Caring for your Hair Extensions is very much like caring for your own hair, it is all about using the correct products and treating it with respect. 

In this blog we discuss the aftercare of Hair Extensions, but it's also very useful information if you have longer hair and you'd like to ensure you are looking after it. 

Firstly, you can wash your hair 48 to 36 hours after your fitting. Your hair extensions are settling in, especially if you've got any form of glue in your hair. If you are feeling that a wash is required, use dry shampoo. 

You may notice after the fitting your scalp feels tender. This usually only last a few days and is completely normal due to the additional weight of the added hair. It's not recommended to colour, bleach or chemically change your hair extensions. 

Yes the hair is 100% human hair, but the end results may be unpredictable. Please speak to us before you use any type of dying agent, as the lifespan of the hair will be compromised. Most important rule of Hair Extensions, never sleep with wet hair, not only can this cause matting it can also damage your own hair. Hair is most vulnerable when wet.  

WASHING 

Products containing silicone and/or sulphates can break down the extension bonds and dry out the hair including your own. Avoid using oily product on the root are, it can cause the bonds to slip. Get in to the habit of washing your hair once a week, and in between washed use dry shampoo! 

Before washing, brush your hair to make sure there are no knots or tangles. 

Wash your hair extensions in an upright position, i.e. in the shower. Washing your hair extensions over the bathtub can cause tangling and tension as the hair is heavy. 

Smooth the shampoo down the hair & be careful not to rub the hair. You should use your finger tips to massage the scalp, as rubbing can cause breakage for both your hair and the extensions. Only condition the mid-lengths & ends of the hair, conditioner on the bonds will cause slippage. 

Pat dry and squeeze any remaining water out the hair with your towel.

DRYING 

After patting dry use a leave-in conditioner or de-tangling spray, then use a wide-tooth comb, avoiding the bonds, to make sure any tangles are removed. Always work your way up from end to root when combing or brushing to prevent knotting.

Make sure you apply a heat protector before moving on to the drying stage.

Direct the air down the hair shaft for a sleek finish. Dry your hair in sections and use the cooler setting to dry the bonds/roots. 

All serums, gels, hairsprays etc can still be used but avoid the bonds/roots as you always would with products. 

BRUSHING 

Remember your hair extensions are bonded to your natural hair, pulling on them too hard may lead to your own hair being damaged. Hold the roots/bonds while brushing & always start brushing from the ends and gradually work your way up. Always use a hair extension brush or a tangle teaser. 

PRODUCTS 

Always make sure that you are using sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner. Always read the label. Your own hair will also benefit from this as sulphates cause colour fade, making your hair dull and dry. Use a hair mask once per week to revive your Hair Extensions.

An argon oil-based mask works well as it's full of antioxidants, vitamin C, etc. and your own hair will benefit too.

DAY TO DAY & HOLIDAYS 

Sunbed: Wrap your hair in a towel as the heat from the sunbed can cause the bonds to melt. 

Gym, Sauna or Steam room: Dry the bonds after the session to avoid the hair getting tangled. 

Chlorine & seawater: Can cause the extensions to tangle & matt, & blonde hair to discolour. Should you wish to swim underwater with extensions, wear a cap, or braid the extensions, then wash & dry your hair immediately after. 

Hair Extensions are a luxury and should be treated with care in order for them to last as long as possible. Use the correct products, and follow the aftercare advise. Even though your extensions are 100% human hair, it is not receiving nutrients from the scalp like your natural hair. The more heat used on the hair extensions the shorter their lifespan will be. 

Get in touch if you have any questions regarding hair extensions!