Tips for Caring for Hair Extensions
Taking good care of your hair extensions requires just as much effort as choosing them in the first place. They are not, nor should they be, temporary decisions; they are meant to last a long time if cared-for properly, and that should be the goal of everyone who acquires them. Although there are many aspects of caring for them, here are some of the most common which every owner should know quite well.
Your real hair requires brushing to keep from getting tangled, and the same goes for hair extensions. It’s best to start detangling the hair from the bottom as normal and work your way up. However, it’s very important to be gentle – pulling too hard will cause breakage and potentially ruin the extensions entirely.
Extensions generally do not get dirty as often as natural hair, but should still be washed on somewhat of a regular basis. They should always be detangled before washing, and when you shampoo and wash them, take it slow and be patient. They should be wetted bit by bit with a downward motion so they won’t become re-tangled in the process, which can also be countered by using a wide-toothed comb after washing.
In addition to washing, a quality leave-in conditioner is a great follow-up. There is no need to apply a number of different products at once, as it can lead to dull hair and more tangles and leave them prone to getting dirty again. Simply use a similar downward motion when working out the tangles and the conditioner will do its job.
Excessive heat is truly detrimental to hair extensions, and this is often underestimated; it’s best to let them dry naturally. If you wish to use a blow-dryer after allowing them some time to dry on their own, use the low-heat setting.
When your extensions aren’t being used, they should be stored properly. After being cleaned, conditioned and detangled, it’s recommended to store them in an air-tight container. Otherwise, they may become discolored, tangled or even moldy if left out for too long. This is entirely preventable, so store your extensions properly if you won’t be using them for an extended period of time.
If you’re unable to remove them before sleeping or physical exercise, it’s a good idea to tie them into a ponytail. If you’re sleeping, use a low ponytail to avoid creases and tangles; if you’re exercising, use a high ponytail to minimize their exposure to sweat.
You should take hair extensions out before you go swimming; if you absolutely cannot, it’s best to wear a swimming cap. It’s rarely a desirable choice, but chlorine and salt will not be kind to the extensions and could damage them permanently.
When you are unsure about anything from the best brush, conditioner or shampoo to how to prevent or deal with damage, you should never hesitate to get in touch with your local hair care professionals. Asking questions is the best way to expand your knowledge, and your consultants will be more than happy to help you in every possible way!
