How To Make Your Hair Extensions Last Longer
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Hair extensions offer the perfect solution to many hair crises. They always look good, guaranteed. At least, they look fantastic after getting them done, but keeping them flawless afterward? That is another matter. How you care for your hair extensions will make all the difference. It needs a strict aftercare routine. Done right, they can last a very long time.
Caring For Your Hair Extensions
Whether you have tape in hair extensions or curly hair extensions, men hair extensions or women hair extensions, aftercare is the same. In no time at all, they can get tangled, matted, otherwise problematic if you neglect their care, as the American Academy of Dermatology explains. These tips will help them stay luscious and gorgeous long after you leave the salon:
Wash Extensions the Right Way
It is important to wash extensions correctly. While you can wash them as you would wash your natural hair, there are some factors to remember when next you lather shampoo. Not all extensions are the same. As such, they require different care. Use quality shampoos and conditioners. Always. Discuss which products work best with your hair stylist.
Each type, whether tape in hair extensions, men hair extensions, women hair extensions, curly hair extensions, if micro rings with small, silicone copper rings or pre-taped wefts, has its own set of needs. You want the bonds to stay secure, the extensions in excellent condition, and your natural hair still growing healthily underneath. Avoid oil strippers, like alcohol and sulfates.
Where possible, wash your hair in the shower, as this sends water down your hair and keeps your extensions manageable. Flipping your hair over the bath will only result in severe tangling, hours of brushing, and irreparable damage to your extensions. Only use conditioner on the ends. Using it near your roots can cause slippage, a situation to avoid at all costs.
Dry Extensions Properly
Correct washing is fundamental to longevity but so is drying. Be thorough. Very. While going to sleep with a little damp might be tempting, it is likely to unleash all manner of extension terrors. Wet hair, however slight, tangles and dreads. It causes serious knots, loosens bonds, and extensions fall out. Wet hair is weak hair, unable to cope with the rigorous demands of sleep.
Brush Carefully
Harsh brushing will loosen extensions and pull them out. How you untangle your locks matters, since they will tangle eventually. Buy a good brush. Invest in quality. Start brushing the tips of your hair and work your way up. This is the least stressful on scalp, hair, and extensions, keeping them all in good health. Brush often. As much as you want. Remember to just brush gently.
Condition Often
While nobody wants oily hair, extensions do not get oily, since they only bond to the root. As such, they need added nourishment. You can condition your extensions at home, but to give them the longest life possible, schedule weekly conditioning treatments at your salon. Not only does this keep your hair looking good, but it gives you a chance to fix issues as they arise.
Keep Heat Low
Heat can cause extensive damage not only to your extensions, but to your natural hair too. From tape in hair extensions to curly hair extensions, all extensions contain human hair. As such, they split, become brittle. No matter how much conditioning you do, damaged extensions are damaged and need replacing. You cannot fix them. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce heat:
Use Heat Protectants
Before styling with any heated tools, apply protectants. So many good ones are available, there is no reason not to have several. Some work on wet hair, others you apply before styling.
Lower the Temperature
The easiest way to keep heated tools in check is to turn down their temperatures. Use the lowest heat setting possible. Even when some heat is necessary, never burn your extensions.
Take Frequent Breaks
If you straighten or curl every day, consider taking a break every few days to give your extensions a chance at survival. While looking gorgeous is your priority, there are cooler ways to do it too.
Prepare Extensions for Sleep
Since it is impossible to prevent tossing and turning, there are some other ways to keep your locks from tangling at night. Fewer knots mean less brushing in the morning and much less damage. Tie extensions back before heading to bed. Put them in a low ponytail with a soft scrunchie or hairband. You can also braid them neatly to prevent tangling and look good too.
Separate Bonds Every Day
Every day, take the time needed to separate your bonds. This may sound very tedious and heavy on time, but it really takes a minute or two and with some practice, even less. It needs no tools, just adept fingers. Untangle any that may be tangled and separate each carefully. It might need a small comb or brush, but unlikely. Doing this daily will extend extension life significantly.
Final Thoughts
While it is possible to keep your extensions looking flawless from the comfort of home, it needs some work, some time, some effort. For those too busy or inexperienced, regular visits with your stylist can keep your locks looking constantly their best. However, by following these tips, you should be able to wear your hair extensions for a very, very long time without problems.