How to Take Care of Your Hair Extensions
Hair extensions must be taken care of properly to help them last as long as possible. It is very important to have good quality extensions and prolonging their lifespan is even more important. It is fairly simple to care for extensions by listening to the advice of your hair stylist and keeping the following tips in mind.
Washing
It is important to thoroughly comb through all of your hair before washing it to remove any tangles. Gentle shampoos with a pH between 5 and 6.5 should be used a minimum of once per week on the hair and it should be conditioned after each wash. Do not rub or massage the hair during the washing process, as this can cause excessive tangling of the extensions. Work your way up the hair shaft during conditioning to avoid pulling on the root. It is recommended that a good quality leave-in conditioner be applied after shampooing and conditioning, and that hair be air-dried as much as possible.
Styling
Heat can be extremely damaging to hair extensions, if not administered properly. This is because moisture that is lost from the hair strand cannot be replaced through the follicle. It is important to avoid excessive use of curlers, flat irons and blow dryers. Try non-heat styling methods instead such as braids to create waves or even rollers. Chemical treatments such as colors, bleaches or perms are not recommended for those with extensions in. Talk to your stylist and let them know about the extensions to get their recommendations about them before proceeding with any chemical treatment.
Daily Maintenance
It is recommended that those with extensions in never go to sleep with wet hair. This can cause excessive tangling that causes damage to the extensions. Professional stylists recommend instead that hair is completely dry and braided to avoid tangling. Satin pillowcases can also help keep hair detangled and avoid friction. Brush or comb through hair in the morning with an anti-static tool very gently to avoid pulling on the extensions too hard. Do not use products that are alcohol based, as this can dry out the hair.
Environmental Conditions
Those who want to extend the life of their hair extensions for as long as possible should avoid swimming pools. However, that is not always possible. Under no circumstance should a swimming cap be used by anyone with extensions, as they can cause matting. Instead, the hair should be worn in a braid at the back of the neck and conditioned thoroughly after getting out. Sunbathers should wear hair in a braid as well and not remove the braid until the hair has cooled down. To prevent or treat dryness, it is important to treat hair with natural oils such as jojoba or macadamia oils every other week. Apply to the ends of hair before braiding it for the night.
Hair extensions can be a serious financial investment depending on the type. Consult your stylist for more detailed advice for the particular type of extensions that you have.