If you have just paid a small fortune for a new head of luscious, long locks it is vital that you follow a strict aftercare programme in order to maintain the quality of your natural hair and your new extensions.
Here is my personal aftercare programme. I use it myself and it's the same programme I give to all my hair extensions clients.
It's advised not to wash your hair for 2-3 days after application. If you have had tape in extension fitted it is imperative that you don't wash your hair for at least 3 days to ensure they tape has adhered fully.
If you feel your hair needs washing before this time period use a dry shampoo to remove any oily residue.
You may notice after installation your scalp feels tender. This can last for up-to a week but is completely normal and is due to the extra weight of the added hair. This feeling should be slightly uncomfortable at most and should never actually 'hurt'. Should you feel more than a slight uncomfortable feeling please contact your hair extension technician for further advice.
It's not recommended to colour, bleach or perm your hair extensions. Even if the hair is 100% human hair the end results of these services can be unpredictable.
WASHING
It is essential you only use products that are designed for hair extension use or have been advised by your hair extension technician. Stay away from any products containing silicone, sulphates or excessive oils. Silicones and sulphates can break down the extension bonds and dry out the hair. Any oily product that comes into contact with your bonds can cause slippage.
Try to only wash your hair once or twice a week. If you can, use dry shampoo in-between washes. Before washing, detangle your hair extensions with an extension brush and separate the bonds (if applicable).
Wash your hair in an upright position, preferably in the shower. Washing your hair extensions over the bath can cause tangling. Smooth the shampoo down the hair and be careful not to rub.
Only condition the mid lengths and ends of the hair. Do not apply conditioner to the bonds as this will cause slippage.
Pat dry when washed but do not rub.
DRYING
If time allows, try to wait for your hair to dry naturally until it's 70-80% dry.
Use a leave in conditioner or detangling spray, then use a wide tooth comb, making sure to avoid the bonds.
Apply a heat protector and proceed to dry the hair.
Direct the heat down the hair shaft for a sleek finish. Dry your hair in sections.
Use the cooler setting to dry the bonds/roots. or hold your hairdryer further away from the hair.
Finish your hair as you usually would, reapplying the heat protector before applying any more heat, and once again, avoid putting any heat on the bonds.
All serums, gels, hairsprays etc can still be use but again, avoid the bonds.
IF YOU HAVE MICRO OR NANO RINGS FITTED IT IS IMPERITIVE THAT YOU DON’T APPLY ANY HEAT WHATSOEVER TO YOUR ROOTS OR BONDS.
Should any heat come into contact with your bonds they can melt and cause your extensions to shed. Should this happen the cost to re-bond the extensions will be down to you and be very costly.
BRUSHING
Remember your hair extensions are bonded to your natural hair, pulling on them too hard may result in your own hair being damaged. Hold the roots/bonds while brushing and always start brushing at the bottom and gradually work your way up to the roots.
Always use a hair extension brush.
DAY TO DAY ACTIVITIES AND HOLIDAYS
If you use a sunbed it is advised to wrap your hair in a towel as the heat from the sunbed can cause the bonds to melt.
If you work out on a regular basis or use a sauna, be sure to dry the bonds of your hair as soon as possible after your session.
It is not advised to get your hair extensions wet whilst swimming. Chlorine and sea water can cause the extensions to tangle and matt and dis-colour.
Should you wish to swim underwater with extensions, braid the extensions first, wash and dry your hair immediately after.
Do not sleep with wet hair extensions. Ensure they are completely dry before going to bed.
If you have blonde extensions and are going on holiday to another country, you may want to consider taking a clarifying product away with you. Such as Malibu C hard water treatment sachet. This product will remove any discolouration that may have occurred.
Extensions are a costly luxury and should be looked after with great care in order for them to last as long as possible.
Even though your extension hair is 100% human hair, it is not receiving nutrients from the scalp like your natural hair. The more heat you use on the extensions the shorter their lifespan will be. Treat your extensions with the same respect you would with your own hair.
Lighter shades need extra care and less heat application to increase their longevity.
Superior aftercare and regular maintenance will keep your hair feeling and looking great.
I hope this helps.
