Caring for hair extensions can be a bit of pain, but come to think of it, would you be happy with extensions that look good only about a month or so? Of course not. After you’ve forked out the cash to get hair extensions, it is necessary to have a proper hair care routine to maintain them so that they last for a long time. Taking care of hair extensions is an ongoing process, the results of which depend on you, your efforts and knowledge as well as your hair stylist. So, before you take the plunge, take a look at these helpful tips on hair extensions maintenance:
- Check the quality of your extensions. If they are cheap extensions, they will not be able to withstand heat so keep away from flat irons, curling irons, or hot rollers if you don’t want to risk burning your hair as well as the synthetic hair. Cheap synthetic extensions can also melt under heat. Also, let your extensions dry naturally instead of blow drying it.
- Use a detangling spray on the extensions daily and always comb out the tangles. It is advisable to use a comb or brush appropriate for the extensions, because normal combs and brushes can damage the wefts and cause the extensions to loosen or pull out.
- Wash your extensions carefully. Try not to wet them every day since they won’t be getting as dirty as your real hair. Carefully detangle before shampooing, and use a good shampoo to cleanse them slowly. Wet the extensions a little at a time to prevent tangling and use a downward motion when shampooing and rinsing it.
- We all condition our natural hair, right? The same applies to caring for hair extensions too. Choose a good, nourishing leave-in conditioner and use it post shampooing to remove all tangles and keep your extensions frizz-free and smooth.
- If your extensions cannot be removed before sleep or intense physical activity, tie them back in a ponytail to avoid tangles, creases, and to limit their exposure to sweat.
- Avoid subjecting your extensions to chlorine or saline water. If you swim, always make sure to wear a swimming cap.
- Your extensions need to be treated with gentle care if you want them to last for a long time. Go easy on styling, chemicals and anything else that might damage your extensions sooner than their lifespan.
- Hair extensions tend to move up the hair shaft at around six weeks, making them prone to loosen or become uneven. Ratty or damaged extensions aren’t the hottest accessories of the season, so you must make a decision whether you want to keep them, or you think it’s too much work and would like to get rid of them. Either way, a return to the hairdresser to get them sorted is essential at this point.
Hair extensions improve your look dramatically but they need a good, thorough cleaning and caring routine to be at their best. Read up and ask around before making any decision.
