Hair extensions present countless hairstyle opportunities for women with short hair. However, permanent hair extensions must be styled appropriately to ensure that they blend in. In addition to styling, it is important to maintain them properly so they last and deliver the best outcome.
Strict aftercare not only guarantees the longevity of your extensions but also acts as a layer of security when you are unable to visit the salon as regularly as needed. In the following excerpt, we will discuss some ideal maintenance tips that will keep your extensions looking flawless for a long time.
Maintenance Tips For Hair Extensions
Permanent extensions are low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean no maintenance at all. Moreover, regular hair care also improves the health of your natural hair. Whether you are new to the world of hair extensions or have been a loyal member for years, it is always better to pocket some haircare tips to get your dream style!
Prefer Target Cleaning
Extensions relying on a short hair base are a bit challenging because the hair may tangle easily, and harsh brushing may damage the installation bond. Tangles become a major concern when you have to wash your hair.
It is important to clean your scalp rather than the length to prevent dirt buildup and dandruff. Always prefer a sulfate-free shampoo to prevent unnecessary damage. Furthermore, ensure to wash your hair downwards and gently to prevent unnecessary breakage.
Condition Properly
Most women make the mistake of applying the conditioner to the scalp to achieve good results. This approach results in more harm than good because it leads to product build-up on the scale.
Therefore, to get the best results, apply the conditioner from the midshaft to the tip of the hair. It is also critical to avoid the extension junctions so that the vigorous movements don’t make the attachments lose.
Mindful Drying Practices
Natural drying was initially thought to be the best drying method. However, recently, things have changed. After a wash, pat dry your hair with a microfiber towel. Avoid rubbing the extensions together or pulling them, as this will cause frizz and attachment damage.
You can also dry your hair extensions with a hair blower. However, to prevent hair damage, it is important to use minimal-temperature or cold air dryers. Cold air preserves the moisture of the hair so they don’t appear dull and dry.
Regular Brushing
Brushing your hair every day is important to prevent tangling. To prevent maximum hair breakage, use wooden or soft bristle brushes and wide-tooth combs. The same rules apply to hair extensions (they must be brushed regularly).
It is better to start brushing at the bottom and then progress to the upper part of the hair. Allocate a few minutes to scalp massage to promote blood circulation and boost hair growth.
Use Product Selection
Product selection is critical regarding hair extension care because thick products can add unnecessary weight, damaging the extensions’ attachments. But, since oiling has countless benefits, it is better to apply it on your scalp so that the natural hair can benefit from it. Extensions don’t need nutrients like natural hair, but if you want them to shine, you can apply some quantity from the midshaft to the tips. Ensure to avoid vigorous movements as they may tangle the extensions. You can also use hair masks once or twice a month to keep your extensions and hair hydrated.
Additional Tips To Maintain Your Hair Extensions
The above tips are the most general things that you should be mindful of when caring for your extensions. Here are some additional tips that can guarantee dream results as well.
Adopt Better Sleep Practices: Sleep acts as a repairing agent, and good sleep can increase your natural hair growth, which can ultimately benefit the extensions as the natural hair base strengthens.
Use Silk Pillowcases: Silk pillowcases reduce unwanted friction, preventing frizz and breakage at night.
Protective Hairstyles: Never sleep with your hair open, as it leads to dangerous tangles. Hence, it is better to braid the hair or make loose ponytails and enclose them in silk hair caps to prevent damage.
The Final Verdict
Hair extensions are a low-maintenance solution, but they need some care to ensure the best results. It is important to wash them correctly, avoid heat styling, adopt healthy sleep habits, and brush them regularly to ensure their fullness and shine.
You must also visit your stylist for touch-ups to keep the extensions in their best shape. You should also keep an eye out for sun exposure and hard water (when swimming in pools, etc.) to prevent unnecessary damage.
