The Ultimate Guide To Looking After Your Hair Extensions
There’s a reason celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Zendaya and J.Lo can switch from waist-length mermaid waves to sleek bobs, voluminous blow-dries and impossibly glossy ponytails overnight. Hair extensions are one of the best-kept secrets behind those headline-making transformations, offering endless possibilities when it comes to length, volume and style. But whether you’re going for A-list glamour for a special event or simply want your salon-fresh hair to look its best for as long as possible, extensions need a little extra TLC.
Why maintenance is important
Unlike your natural hair, extensions don’t benefit from oils produced by the scalp, meaning they can become dry, tangled or lacklustre without the right care. Hard water can also be an issue, with mineral deposits potentially leaving hair feeling rough, dull and harder to manage.
The good news? With the right products, a few clever habits and regular maintenance, you can keep your extensions looking silky, shiny and beautifully blended. We asked Victoria Lynch, founder of hair extension brands, Additional Lengths, and Remi Cachet, for her expert advice on how to keep extensions in their best condition.
Start with the right shampoo & conditioner
Your wash-day routine can make all the difference to the lifespan of your extensions. The first rule is to choose products that are suitable for your particular extension type and attachment method. Sulphate-free shampoo is often a good starting point or look for a balanced formula that tackles build-up while helping maintain softness and manageability. Ingredients such as glycerin and Pro-Vitamin B5 (panthenol) can help support hydration, while lightweight oils add nourishment and shine.
When washing, gently massage shampoo into your scalp rather than scrubbing or piling your hair on top of your head, which can encourage tangling. Let the shampoo run down the lengths as you rinse, then apply conditioner from the mid-lengths to the ends, keeping it away from bonds, tapes or other attachment points where heavier products may cause slippage.
Don’t be tempted to overwash. Finding a routine that keeps your scalp fresh without unnecessarily stripping moisture from the lengths will help your extensions stay soft and manageable.
Don’t be tempted to overwash. Finding a routine that keeps your scalp fresh without unnecessarily stripping moisture from the lengths will help your extensions stay soft and manageable. If you’ve just had them fitted, check with your stylist before your first wash, as timing can vary depending on the method used.
The secret to keeping them glossy
That expensive-looking, celebrity-level shine doesn’t happen by accident. Because extension hair doesn’t receive the natural oils your own hair does, it can benefit from a lightweight leave-in conditioner, hydrating treatment or a small amount of serum applied through the lengths and ends.
The key word is lightweight. Too much product can leave hair looking greasy or weighed down, while oils and rich treatments applied near the attachment points may compromise the bonds or tapes. Once a week, consider using a nourishing mask if it’s suitable for your extensions, and always apply a heat protectant before styling.
Too much product can leave hair looking greasy or weighed down, while oils and rich treatments applied near the attachment points may compromise the bonds or tapes.
Victoria also recommends paying attention to moisture when caring for extensions, particularly if you live in a hard-water area. “Minerals in hard water can build up on the hair, leaving it feeling dry, rough and dull, and over time this can contribute to increased tangling, frizz and breakage,” she explains.
“Hard water can also affect colour-treated hair, potentially causing fading or changes to your carefully chosen shade. If your extensions suddenly feel coated, look less glossy or become harder to manage, mineral build-up could be one factor worth considering.”
Brush like a pro
Tangles are one of the biggest enemies of beautiful extensions, so make brushing part of your morning and evening routine. Use a brush designed for extensions and work gently from the ends upwards, holding the hair near the roots to avoid putting unnecessary tension on the attachments.
After washing, squeeze excess water out with a towel rather than rubbing vigorously. Detangle carefully and avoid pulling at knots, particularly around bonds or tapes. A few extra minutes of patience can make a real difference to how your extensions look and how long they last.
Choose aftercare that works for your extensions
When you’ve invested in good-quality extensions, the products you use between salon appointments matter. Victoria recommends choosing an extension-safe shampoo and conditioner rather than simply opting for the most powerful cleansing formula.
She also recommends regularly using a nourishing hair oil through the mid-lengths and ends to help smooth the hair and reduce that dry, rough feeling that can develop over time. Keep richer products away from attachment points and always follow your stylist’s advice on what is suitable for your particular extensions, as they all differ.
Ultimately, beautiful extensions aren’t just about the hair you leave the salon with. Consistent aftercare, gentle brushing, thoughtful product choices and regular maintenance all help keep them looking their best for longer.
