Hair extensions can transform your look in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re rocking clip-ins, tape-ins, sew-ins, or fusion extensions, proper care is key to keeping them looking fabulous and lasting longer
And that's where so many people back off and second-guess their decision.
At Neferthena, we believe that with the right maintenance routine, your hair extensions can stay vibrant, healthy, and stunning for months. This guide dives into expert tips, backed by industry insights, to help you master hair extensions maintenance and aftercare. Let’s get started!
Why Proper Hair Extensions Maintenance Matters
First of all, these hair extensions are not natural hair; they undergo a chemical process and do not receive natural scalp oils. Hence are more prone to dryness and damage.
But by adopting a solid hair care routine, you can protect your investment, maintain that salon-fresh look, and avoid costly replacements.
According to a 2023 survey by the Hair Extension Industry Association, 68% of users reported that consistent care extended the lifespan of their extensions by up to 30%. We have compiled a bunch of things you can do at home to avoid damaging your wig and make it last longer. Come along.
1. Gentle Washing: Less Is More
Too much shampooing can make your extensions lose their gloss, strip them of moisture, and cause them to wear. Aim to wash them every 7-10 wears for clip-ins or once a week for semi-permanent extensions, depending on how often you head out or use them.
1. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoos:
For washing your extensions, make sure you use sulphate-free shampoo, since it can dry them out.
2. Cool Water is Your Friend:
Hot water can weaken the bonds of tape-ins or fusion extensions. Use lukewarm or cool water to preserve their integrity.
3. Wash in a Downward Motion:
Gently massage shampoo from the top down to avoid tangling. Rinse thoroughly to prevent product buildup.
2. Detangling Like a Pro
Improper detangling can lead to breakage or shedding, reducing their lifespan. Too much tangling can ruin your extensions after a short while
1. Invest in a Loop Brush:
A loop brush, designed specifically for extensions, glides through without pulling on bonds or wefts. Neferthena’s Loop Brush is a game-changer for smooth, snag-free brushing.
2. Start from the Ends:
Work your way up to the roots to minimize stress on the extensions.
3. Detangle When Dry:
Wet hair is more prone to breakage, so brush gently when the extensions are dry, preferably before washing.
3. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!
Keeping them glossy and hydrated is the key to long life. Since extensions don’t get natural scalp oils, here's how to keep them
1. Use a Leave-In Conditioner:
Every once in a while, make sure to apply a lightweight, extension-safe leave-in conditioner daily to combat dryness. Get Nourishing Moremo Protein Mist, which is perfect for a quick hydration boost.
2. Avoid the Bonds:
For tape-ins or fusion extensions, keep conditioner away from the attachment points to prevent slippage.
3. Deep Conditioning Treatments:
Once a month, treat your extensions to a deep conditioning mask to restore moisture and elasticity.
4. Heat Styling: Proceed with Caution
Heat styling can completely transform your look, but excessive heat can be super harmful and damage extensions, especially synthetic ones.
1. Always Use a Heat Protectant:
Spritz a heat protectant spray before using flat irons, curling wands, or blow dryers.
2. Keep Temperatures Low:
Stick to 250-300°F for human hair extensions and avoid heat altogether for synthetic ones unless specified as heat-safe.
3. Limit Heat Exposure:
Style sparingly to preserve the hair’s cuticle and prevent dryness.
Pro Tip: Air-dry your extensions whenever possible to maintain their natural sheen and avoid heat damage.
5. Sleeping Smart for Healthy Extensions
Twirling and twisting while sleeping causes friction that can lead to damaged hair follicles. If they are easy to remove, like clip-ins or tape-ins, then it's the best way to save them. But if they are sewn in, then there are some tips to avoid them getting frizzy and damaged.
1. Silk or Satin Pillowcases:
These reduce friction, keeping extensions smooth and tangle-free. Cotton pillowcases can cause frizz and breakage.
2. Loose Braid or Ponytail:
Before bed, loosely braid your extensions or tie them in a low ponytail to prevent matting.
3, Silk Bonnet or Scarf:
For extra protection, wrap your hair in a silk bonnet or scarf, especially for curly or long extensions.
6. Regular Maintenance Appointments
Maintenance touch-ups with your esthetician or beautician are super important
1. Schedule Touch-Ups:
Visit your stylist every 6-8 weeks to reposition tape-ins or tighten sew-ins, preventing strain on your natural hair.
2. Check for Slippage:
Bonds can loosen over time. Regular check-ins ensure your extensions stay secure.
3. Professional Removal:
Never attempt to remove semi-permanent extensions at home—it can damage both the extensions and your natural hair.
7. Choose Quality Extensions
Always go for the best quality extensions if you want them to last a year. High-grade human hair extensions are more durable and easier to maintain than synthetic or low-quality alternatives.
You can ask your aesthetician for the kind of extensions that's best for your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your hair extensions doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these tips for long-lasting hair extensions, you can keep your locks looking salon-fresh for months. This blog covers all the important points and steps to keep them polished and glossy. Plus, you can get a flat 20% off on your first visit ( terms and conditions apply) and amazing discounts on weekdays.
For further information and treatments, you can visit Neferthena at Jumeira Village Circle for all kinds of beauty treatments, including waxing, threading. hair, nail, skincare.
