If you’re thinking about getting hair extensions, you’ve probably done enough research to know which kind you want. But what you might not have thought about is just what it takes to properly maintain your hair extensions in order for them to look just as good on day 60 as they did on day one. So for those who aren’t sure exactly how to maintain their hair extensions or what good hair extension maintenance entails, here are three tips for keeping your hair extensions looking good every day.
Use the Right Shampoo
With most hair extensions, you’re going to want to treat them just as you do your normal, natural hair. This includes washing them just as often as you would typically wash your hair. However, Samantha Faragalli of InStyle.com recommends for wearers to use shampoos specific to the type of hair extensions you’ve put in. For example, if you have synthetic extensions, you’ll want to use a different type of shampoo than if you had real human hair extensions to avoid dulling your hair prematurely. Ask your hairstylist for the best type of shampoo to use with your extensions.
Be Careful With Moisture
When you have extensions in your hair, you’re going to want to be very careful with leaving your hair wet because it can cause your extensions to develop mold and create distasteful smells and irritation on your scalp. For this reason, SimplyHair.uk.co advises wearers to never go to bed with wet hair and to use specific drying instructions applicable to the type of extensions you’re using.
As a good rule of thumb, don’t use the highest heat setting on your blow dryer in order to avoid damaging both your natural hair and your extensions. You’ll also want to use heat protectant serums on all your hair to keep each strand looking and feeling healthy and beautiful.
Use Satin for Sleeping
Because hair extensions can easily become tangled and hard to manage if not properly maintained, it’s best to do all you can to make sure your hair stays neat and tidy whenever possible, including while you’re sleeping. To help with this, SallyBeauty.com suggests for wearers to use satin for around their hair when sleeping. This could include sleeping with your hair wrapped in a satin head scarf or wrap, using a satin sleeping cap, or simply sleeping with a satin pillow case. Doing so will help prevent excessive friction against your hair and help to keep your extensions from becoming unkempt and knotted.
If properly taken care of, hair extensions can give you the look you’ve always wanted without waiting for your natural hair to fall into place. Use the tips mentioned above to have the most beautiful hair extensions possible.
