Do You Know How to Care Hair Extensions

So you've either decided to get those extensions or you're intrigued enough about them to learn more. Well, you have come to the right place. Whether clip in hair extensions, tape in hair or pre bonded hair extensions, all hair extensions need to be cared for properly to extend the life of them. For what people pay to lengthen their locks, keeping them around for as long as possible is very much desirable. Our goal is to help you get the most bang, or bangs, for your buck.

Start with the basics: shampooing. Use a gentle, high-quality shampoo and conditioner—don’t compromise on quality. Protect your hair and extensions by avoiding cheap, low-grade products that could cause damage.

When it comes to coloring your hair extensions, planning ahead is key. Always color your natural hair to the desired shade before having your extensions applied. This allows your stylist to perfectly match the extensions to your hair, ensuring a seamless, natural look. For highlights, you can achieve a natural effect by incorporating extensions in different shades, mimicking the randomness of traditional highlights applied through a cap. If your roots need a touch-up before changing your extensions, it’s best to leave the coloring to a professional stylist to avoid damage and ensure the perfect match.

How you style your hair depends on the type of extensions you have. For most extensions, you can use your usual styling tools just as you would on natural hair. Always check with your stylist—they can provide guidance on the specific rules for your extension type. You can still wear your hair in ponytails, braids, buns, and use barrettes just as you normally would, keeping your look versatile and natural.

With summer approaching, you won’t want to miss out on dips in the pool or ocean—but your hair extensions need protection. Always wear a latex swim cap to keep your hair safe. Before putting it on, carefully detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up. Once detangled, braid your hair into two braids to ensure all strands are neatly tucked under the cap. After swimming, wash your hair immediately to remove any chlorine, salt, or other chemicals that may have gotten under the cap. And don’t forget to have fun with it—add some sparkle or bling to your swim cap to let your personality shine!

When it’s time to remove your hair extensions, there are a few options. The quickest—but least ideal—method is to cut them out, which will leave your hair much shorter. A better approach is to have your stylist remove them for you. If your natural hair and scalp are in good condition, you can usually have new extensions applied the same day. However, if there is any damage, it’s best to address it before adding more hair to ensure healthy, long-lasting results.

Communication with your stylist is key—talk to them often and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Extensions require skill, so do your homework and choose a stylist who is experienced and trustworthy. We also strongly recommend asking for references. If possible, speak with clients who have had extensions applied and ask to see before-and-after photos. A picture is worth a thousand words: if you prefer the “before” look over the “after,” it’s a sign to move on to another salon. Remember, you are investing in yourself—make sure the salon works for you!