Hair extensions can be a great way to add length and volume to your natural hair, but they can also be a bit high maintenance. Properly caring for your extensions is essential in order to keep them looking and feeling their best, and this includes regular washing.
But washing hair extensions is a bit different than washing your natural hair, as the hair itself is not attached to the scalp and therefore does not receive the natural oils that help to keep your natural hair healthy. This means that it is especially important to use the right techniques and products to keep your extensions looking and feeling their best.
In this post, we’ll go over all the steps you need to take to properly wash your hair extensions, including how often to wash them, what products to use, and how to properly dry and style them afterwards.
Washing Hair Extensions The Correct Way
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair Extensions?
One of the most common questions people have when it comes to washing hair extensions is how often they should do it. The answer to this question really depends on a few factors, including the type of extensions you have, your lifestyle, and how much product you use on your hair.
Here are some general guidelines for how often you should wash your hair extensions:
- Clip-in extensions: These can be removed each night, so you can wash them as often as you would your natural hair. However, if you’re not using a lot of product and you’re not sweating or exposing them to a lot of dirt, you can probably get away with washing them every week or two.
- Fusion/bonded extensions: These are more permanent and cannot be removed each night, so you should not wash them as often as clip-ins. Instead, aim to wash them every two to four weeks, depending on how much product you use and how much you sweat.
- Weave/sewn-in extensions: Like fusion extensions, these are also more permanent and cannot be removed each night. You should aim to wash them every two to four weeks, depending on your lifestyle and how much product you use.
- Micro-link/ring-link extensions: These are also more permanent and cannot be removed each night. You should aim to wash them every two to four weeks, depending on your lifestyle and how much product you use.
Washing Hair Extensions The Correct Way
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and you may need to wash your extensions more or less frequently depending on your specific needs. If you notice that your extensions are starting to look and feel greasy or dirty, it’s probably time to give them a wash.
What Products Should You Use to Wash Your Hair Extensions?
When it comes to choosing products to use on your hair extensions, it’s important to select ones that are gentle and nourishing. Avoid using harsh sulfates and alcohol, as these can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle.
Here are some types of products you should consider using to wash your hair extensions:
- Sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates are a type of cleansing agent that can be harsh on the hair and strip it of its natural oils. Look for a sulfate-free shampoo specifically formulated for hair extensions, as these are typically gentler and more nourishing.
- Conditioner: It’s important to use a conditioner on your hair extensions to help keep them moisturized and prevent tangles. Look for a conditioner that is specifically formulated for hair extensions and has nourishing ingredients like argan oil or keratin.
- Hair oil: Applying a small amount of hair oil to your extensions before washing
