Styling your hair when you have extensions is a bit different from styling your natural hair. Thankfully, the IBE extensions method provides a super comfortable and seamless look, but there are still a few things you need to take into consideration. So today’s post is all about tips for hair styling with extensions.
As a Seattle hairstylist, I’ve been working with extensions for several years, and I’ve learned a thing or two along the way.
Keep reading for everything you need to know!
Tips for Hair Styling with Extensions
Before we get into styling tips, though, first we have to talk about care tips. If you’re new to considering extensions, you’ll want to read up on proper care techniques because it’s a bit different from caring for your natural hair.
How to Take Care of Hair Extensions
Properly caring for your hair extensions is what will help them last and keep your hair healthy.
IBE extensions can last up to 8-10 months, but you need to have a good homecare routine to make that happen.
Moisturize
By nature, your extension hair will be drier than your natural hair, so keeping it moisturized is key to good care.
You’ll want to use extra hydration and moisturizing products (like a good serum) regularly. And plan to deep condition every 3-4 shampoos.
Use Professional Products
Using products that are intended for extension hair and are free of harsh chemicals is also really important to maintaining your extensions. My favorites are the Goldie Locks shampoo, conditioner, and serum.
I use them on my own extensions, and I absolutely love them!
Don’t Use Strengthening or Repair Products
These types of products are designed for regular hair and not extension hair. They also usually contain harsh chemicals, which can be damaging to both your natural and extension hair.
So while a little counterintuitive, definitely avoid those types of products.
I always give a recommended product list to my extensions clients that is tailored to their hair, which takes the guesswork out of it!
How to Style Hair with Extensions
Now that you’ve got some basic care tips down, here is everything you need to know about styling your hair with extensions.
Hair Washing
You don’t want to wash your hair every day with extensions. Instead, you’ll go a few days between shampoos. I will typically wash my extensions 2-3 days per week.
The most important thing about washing is to always blow-dry afterwards. You never want to let your hair air dry, especially if you are washing at night.
Styling with Heat
It’s really important to limit your heat styling with extensions. You can definitely still use your favorite curler or straightener, but try not to do it daily.
I like to plan my wash days to 2-3 days per week, and do a full style on those days. I’ll set my hair with a curling iron, and then just lightly touch up on off days.
It’s also super important to ALWAYS use a heat protector, even on dry hair.
And avoid applying too much heat to the weft line, especially on genius wefts, because they can melt.
Brushing Your Hair
You may not realize it, but there are certain ways you need to brush your hair with extensions.
First, you need to brush your hair much more often with extensions than your natural hair. This is because it’s important to keep it detangled.
I always tell my clients to carry a small brush with them because you’ll want to brush multiple times throughout the day, not just in the morning as you’re getting ready.
Second, you’ll want to brush your hair carefully, starting from the ends and working your way to the top.
It’s important to brush in the direction of your hair’s growth to avoid over-direction of your wefts, as this causes tension.
IBE extensions are quite comfortable compared to other methods, but anything you can do to reduce tension on your scalp also helps.
Finally, Prep Your Hair for Bed
At the end of the night, you’ll want to properly prep your hair for bed. This protects not only your style but also the health of your extensions.
Always start by brushing your hair as described above. Then apply a moisturizing oil.
Wear your hair in a loose braid to prevent it from tangling in your sleep, and finally, use a satin or silk pillowcase to prevent damage.
You can also experiment with heatless curlers as an option, which helps cut down on your heat styling as well.
Hair Extensions Seattle
Extensions can require a bit of extra maintenance, both in your care routine as well as with styling. But it is SO worth it!
Most of my clients leave my chair feeling like a completely new person after an install appointment. The benefits to your natural hair’s health, and the overall look you’re able to achieve are beyond!! I feel so honored to be able to provide this to so many beautiful clients.
If you’re considering extensions and are in the Seattle area, I encourage you to reach out to me!
I’m an open book when it comes to how the process works, and the first step is for us to chat about your hair goals. We can do this casually over Zoom, in person, or even over text.
I welcome the chance to get to know you and to talk about how I can help you achieve your dream hair.
