If you are considering hair extensions, it’s important to understand how to properly care for them before diving in. You’ll definitely want to protect and maintain your investment by practicing proper hair extensions care.
As a Seattle hairstylist, I always make a point to educate my clients on the best care techniques throughout the extensions process. But I thought it would also be helpful to share everything you need to know in a blog post for quick reference!
So be sure to bookmark this post if you’re thinking about extensions! 😘
Please note that this post contains an affiliate link, meaning I may earn a small commission should you make a purchase using the link in this post. I only recommend products that I truly love and use on my own hair.
Okay, here we go–
Hair Extensions Care – Use Proper Products
When I install extensions, I always request that my clients use the products that I recommend, as that’s the best way to ensure your investment is protected.
Products with harsh chemicals can dry out your hair quickly, which will shorten the lifetime of your extensions.
My personal favorites are the Goldie Locks line, including their shampoo, conditioner, and serum.
Their products are specifically formulated for human hair extensions. Which is important because washing your new hair will be quite a bit different from what you are used to, so the fact that their products are designed for extensions is a big benefit.
Extension hair is naturally drier, and it can actually dry out your natural hair more quickly. So, oiling your hair is very important! I love the Goldie Locks serum for this, and bonus, it smells amazing too.
I’ve also been taking their hair supplements for a while, and the results have completely blown me away! Shiny, healthy hair and long, thick nails– I’m obsessed!
How To Take Care of Hair Extensions
Alright, now let’s get into the details on how to take care of your hair extensions.
Tips for Washing
Keeping your extensions hydrated is one of the most important pieces to maintaining the health of your hair. So:
- Wash hair every 2-3 days, not every day
- Apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends
- Rinse well
- Squeeze dry – no rough rubbing!
- Apply a leave-in serum
I recommend brushing your hair before washing, and separating your rows when washing so you can wash at the weft line.
You also will want to always blow-dry your extensions and never air-dry. Especially if you wash your hair at night– never sleep on wet extensions.
Keep Extensions Detangled
Keeping your extensions detangled is another key to maintaining them. So you’ll need to brush your hair multiple times per day.
For example, brush in the morning, before bed, and several times in between.
To make this easier, I suggest carrying a small brush in your purse or storing one in your car. Whatever fits your lifestyle best!
You should also braid your hair before going to sleep at night to avoid tangling. I recommend a satin or silk pillowcase to help with this as well.
Go Easy With Heat Styling
This one may be the toughest to get used to, especially if you currently use heat daily to style your hair. But if you can, limit the number of times per week you use a heat tool.
When you do, turn your iron down to 300 degrees when you’re restyling between washes, and try to do touch-ups instead of a full re-style.
And, always (always!) use a heat protector.
Invest in the Best Extensions Method
I have been installing extensions for over five years now, and I have worked with just about every style of extension out there.
The method that I’ve found to be the best (by far!) is the Invisible Bead Extension (IBE) method. It is the longest-lasting, most comfortable method on the market.
Check out this post to learn more about IBE!
Hair Extensions Maintenance Cost
With proper care, your extensions will last 8-10 months. However, you’ll also need maintenance appointments every 6-8 weeks to move your extensions up as your hair grows out.
So it’s important to note that with extensions, there is an upfront investment, as well as a cost for maintenance.
With my clients, extension maintenance appointments are $220 per row. We are also able to replace wefts during these appointments as needed.
Hair Extensions Seattle
Okay, that covers just about everything you’ll need to know about hair extensions care!
It may seem like they are high maintenance, but honestly, once installed, you really can go days and days without washing or styling.
As I mentioned, I always make a point to guide my clients through the extensions process, ensuring they have all of the information they need to practice proper home care. I also take a consultative approach to the process– we’ll always start by talking through your vision so I can suggest the best way to achieve the look you desire.
If you are in the greater Seattle area and looking for an extensions stylist, I’d love to meet you! Reach out to me through my contact form, and I’ll be in touch right away.
