If you have hair extensions, you must know that washing them can be quite tricky. If you don’t wash them correctly, you may end up damaging them or even worse, losing them. This article will guide you on how to wash your hair with extensions properly.
1. Brush Your Hair
Before you wash your hair, make sure that it is tangle-free. Use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristled brush to detangle your hair. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots.
2. Use a Gentle Shampoo
When washing your hair with extensions, it is best to use a gentle shampoo. Avoid using a shampoo that contains sulfates, as they can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage to the extensions. Look for a shampoo that is specifically formulated for hair extensions.
3. Only Apply Shampoo to Your Scalp
When washing your hair, only apply the shampoo to your scalp. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips, but do not rub the extensions. Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water.
4. Use Conditioner
After shampooing your hair, apply a conditioner to the ends of your hair. Avoid applying conditioner to your scalp or the bonds of the extensions. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes and then rinse it out with lukewarm water.
5. Avoid Using Hot Water
Hot water can damage your extensions, so it is best to avoid using it when washing your hair. Use lukewarm water instead, as it is gentler on the hair and the extensions.
6. Pat Your Hair Dry
After washing your hair, avoid rubbing it vigorously with a towel. Instead, gently pat your hair dry with a towel. This will help to prevent tangles and damage to the extensions.
7. Use a Wide-Tooth Comb
Once your hair is dry, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle it. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots. Be gentle when combing your hair, as pulling on the extensions can cause damage.
8. Do Not Sleep with Wet Hair
It is best to avoid sleeping with wet hair, as this can cause tangles and damage to your extensions. If you must go to bed with wet hair, tie it up in a loose bun or ponytail to prevent tangles.
9. Use a Silk Pillowcase
Using a silk pillowcase can help to prevent tangles and damage to your extensions while you sleep. Silk is gentle on the hair and helps to reduce friction.
10. Avoid Using Heat Styling Tools
Heat styling tools such as straighteners and curling irons can damage your extensions. If you must use them, use a heat protectant spray and keep the heat setting low.
11. Use a Leave-In Conditioner
Using a leave-in conditioner can help to keep your extensions moisturized and prevent tangles. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair and comb through with a wide-tooth comb.
12. Avoid Using Oily Products
Avoid using oily products on your extensions, as they can weigh them down and cause damage. Look for products that are specifically formulated for hair extensions.
13. Wash Your Hair Regularly
It is important to wash your hair regularly to keep it clean and healthy. However, do not overwash your hair, as this can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage to the extensions.
14. Use a Hair Mask
Using a hair mask once a week can help to keep your extensions healthy and moisturized. Apply the mask to the ends of your hair and leave it on for the recommended time before rinsing it out.
15. Avoid Chlorine and Saltwater
Chlorine and saltwater can cause damage to your extensions, so it is best to avoid swimming in them. If you must swim, wear a swimming cap and rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water afterwards.
16. Be Gentle When Styling Your Hair
When styling your hair, be gentle and avoid pulling on the extensions. Use a soft-bristled brush or a wide-tooth comb to style your hair, and avoid using tight hair ties or clips.
17. Get Your Extensions Maintained Regularly
To keep your extensions looking their best, it is important to get them maintained regularly. This may involve tightening the bonds or replacing any damaged extensions.
18. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Exposure to the sun can cause damage to your extensions, so it is important to protect your hair when you are outside. Wear a hat or use a hair sunscreen to protect your hair from the sun’s harmful rays.
19. Use a Detangling Spray
Using a detangling spray can help to prevent tangles and make it easier to comb your hair. Look for a spray that is specifically formulated for hair extensions.
20. Avoid Using Hair Products with Alcohol
Hair products that contain alcohol can dry out your hair and cause damage to your extensions. Look for products that are alcohol-free.
21. Use a Microfiber Towel
Using a microfiber towel can help to reduce frizz and prevent tangles. Gently wrap your hair in a microfiber towel after washing it, and leave it on for a few minutes before patting your hair dry.
22. Get Your Hair Professionally Colored
If you want to color your hair, it is best to get it done professionally. This will ensure that the color is applied evenly and that the extensions are not damaged.
23. Avoid Using Hair Products with Harsh Chemicals
Hair products that contain harsh chemicals can cause damage to your extensions. Look for products that are free from sulfates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals.
24. Be Careful When Brushing Your Hair
When brushing your hair, be careful not to pull on the extensions. Use a soft-bristled brush or a wide-tooth comb, and start from the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots.
25. Use a Deep Conditioning Treatment
Using a deep conditioning treatment once a month can help to keep your extensions healthy and moisturized. Apply the treatment to the ends of your hair and leave it on for the recommended time before rinsing it out.
26. Avoid Tight Hairstyles
Avoid wearing tight hairstyles that pull on the extensions, as this can cause damage. Opt for looser hairstyles such as braids, ponytails, or loose buns.
27. Be Gentle When Drying Your Hair
When drying your hair, be gentle and avoid rubbing it vigorously with a towel. Gently pat your hair dry with a towel, and avoid using a hair dryer on high heat.
28. Store Your Extensions Properly
When you are not wearing your extensions, store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in a humid environment.
29. Use a Heat Protectant Spray
If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage to your extensions. Apply the spray to your hair before using the styling tool.
30. Get Your Extensions Removed Professionally
When it is time to remove your extensions, it is best to get them removed professionally. This will ensure that the extensions are removed safely and without causing damage to your natural hair.