You’ve chosen your method, had your fitting and left the salon with the hair you wanted. What happens next makes a big difference to how long your extensions look good. The right habits keep the hair smooth, protect your own hair and help you get the most from your appointment. Here’s a practical routine you can follow, whichever method you chose.
First, follow your stylist’s advice
Aftercare differs a little between methods. Tapes, nano rings, weaves and keratin bonds all have their own quirks, and your stylist will give you instructions to match. If anything below conflicts with their advice, follow theirs. They know exactly what’s been fitted to your hair.
Brush gently and often
Brushing is the habit that matters most. Extensions tangle in the same places your own hair does, and tangles can pull on the attachments.
- Use a soft brush made for extensions, or a wide-tooth comb.
- Start at the ends and work up in small sections, holding the hair above the attachment so you don’t tug the roots.
- Brush two or three times a day, and always before washing and before bed.
- Never force a brush through a knot. Loosen it with your fingers first.
Wash with care
Wash your hair regularly, but gently, and give the attachments time to settle after fitting by following your stylist’s advice about when to wash for the first time.
- Brush before you step into the shower.
- Use lukewarm water and a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner, applied mostly to the lengths and ends.
- Keep conditioner away from the roots and attachments, because heavy or oily products can loosen some methods.
- Avoid scrubbing or piling your hair on top of your head while washing. Let it fall, and rinse thoroughly.
- Pat dry with a towel instead of rubbing, then let it dry fully before styling or sleeping.
Be careful with oils and rich products
Oil-based products and very rich conditioners can weaken bonds and adhesive. Choose lightweight products, apply them from the mid-lengths down, and ask your stylist which products suit your method.
Heat styling
Extensions are real human hair, but they don’t get natural oils from your scalp, so they can dry out faster than your own hair.
- Use a heat protectant before blow drying, straightening or curling.
- Keep tools on a moderate setting, and keep them away from bonds, rings and tapes.
- Let your hair dry fully before using heat.
Sleep smart
Bed is where a lot of tangles start.
- Tie your hair loosely in a low plait or ponytail, using a soft hair tie.
- Never go to bed with wet hair.
- Consider a silk or satin pillowcase, which creates less friction.
Take care at the gym and the pool
Heavy sweat, chlorine and salt water are all tougher on extensions. Tie your hair back for exercise, rinse and brush it afterwards, and wear a cap or keep your hair clear of the water when swimming, if you can. Check with your stylist before you swim after a new fitting.
Don’t skip maintenance appointments
Every method needs maintenance. As your own hair grows, attachments move away from the root, and they need to be adjusted, refitted or replaced. How often depends on the method and on how fast your hair grows. Some methods can last several months, and others need attention in a matter of weeks, so ask your stylist for a schedule when you’re fitted.
Book your next appointment before you leave, so it doesn’t slip. Leaving extensions in too long can make tangling and matting more likely, and can be harder on your own hair.
When to get in touch
Contact your salon if you notice any of these:
- A bond, ring or weft that has slipped or come loose
- Tangling or matting near the roots that you can’t brush out
- Any scalp discomfort, tightness or irritation
Don’t try to remove or repair the attachments yourself, as this can damage your own hair.
Ready to book?
Hair Nova Salon in Finchley offers every method mentioned here, along with maintenance and removal. See the options on our home page, book online, or send a WhatsApp message with your questions.