5 Care Tips For Long-Lasting Hair Extensions

Hair extensions could last long if it's well taken care of.

POSTED BY ANNA GRAHAM

Suppose one thing boosts one's confidence; it has to be gorgeous hair that sits perfectly on your head. However, not everyone has the hair they love due to different circumstances. Luckily, this is where hair extensions come in. 

And although hair extensions are meant to increase the length of your hair, it also has additional advantages. You can also use these extensions when you have a bad haircut and need to cover it up. Alternatively, you can also use these extensions to add color to your hair when you don't want to color your natural hair. 

So, with all the advantages that hair extensions offer, the global human hair industry is worth over $7B. And if you are looking for thicker hair to enhance your natural locks, an extension might be the best alternative. 

There are five hair extensions: weaves, keratin-applied hair extensions, clip-on hair extensions, and glue-taped hair extensions. And since hair extensions can be made with either real hair or synthetic fibers, they need a lot of care to ensure they last longer and look as realistic as possible. Discussed below are some great care tips for long-lasting extensions. 

Clean The Hair Extensions Properly

Like your natural hair, hair extensions get build-up from products and may require some cleaning. As a result, consider asking your stylist for the type of shampoo and conditioner you should use that'll be great for both your natural hair and extensions. 

When cleaning your extensions, consider being careful enough when washing to ensure that the bonds don't come off and remain secure. Wash your hair in a shower with flowing warm water to avoid getting the hair tangled and stripping the natural oils from the hair and scalp.

Concentrate your shampoo on the roots of your hair and extensions to remove excess leftover products. However, avoid putting conditioner on the ends of your extensions as they might cause them to start slipping down, thus making them last longer. 

Reduce Heat Damage

Hair extensions are prone to damage when you use too much heat. When you first get your extensions, give it time before using heat as if used immediately, it may come out. If you must use heat, ensure that you use a heat protectant to prevent it from becoming brittle and accumulating split ends. 

In addition, try to keep the heat as low as possible, especially for synthetic extensions, to avoid burning them. Ensure that your extensions are dry before heat-styling them, but avoid using a blow-dry-on extension.

Remember to take regular breaks from the heat by getting two pairs of extensions; one can be for curling and the other for straightening. You can use alternatives such as overnight heatless curls.

Brush Your Extensions With Care

Harshly brushing your extensions can lead to strands falling out, especially since they tend to become loose. So, when brushing your extensions, start from the ends as you work your way up to avoid causing strain on your hair.

Take time when combing your extensions, and avoid using the same comb you use in your natural hair as it might degrade synthetic fibers. Consider getting a wide-tooth comb, and don't get too close to the roots. 

Avoid Sleeping With Wet Hair Extensions

Once you have cleaned your extensions, drying them will be the next step before retiring for the night. To dry them, pat with a soft towel until they dry completely to avoid having them loosen. Sleeping with wet hair extensions might lead to tangled roots, and matted roots or extensions might fall out. 

So, to avoid waking up and untangling your natural hair and extensions after a night of tossing and turning, ensure that your hair is well dried. To hasten the drying process, consider using minimal heat using a quality hairdryer.

Protect Your Extensions Using Silk Or Satin

Depending on the type of extensions available, they may fail to receive any natural oils, and you may need to schedule a weekly conditioning treatment. When conditioning your extensions, avoid applying them near the roots as you already have your natural oils. 

So go for natural products that are only affordable but also guarantee hydration. You can get creative by making your hair mask; that's great for the extensions.

Bottom Line

Hair extensions come in handy when one needs extra length, volume, or color. Hair extensions have grown in popularity, with many celebrities embracing them and making them mainstream. 

And just like your natural hair, extensions need the care to keep it well maintained and looking great. As a result, this article offers important care tips for long-lasting hair extensions. 

Up next,  5 Top Tips For Healthy Hair

UP NEXT ON THE HITLIST
Ok