How to Care for Hair Extensions Like a Pro
Published May 19, 2025
You invested in gorgeous hair extensions, now what? Whether you’re rocking clip-ins, tape-ins, or sew-ins, the secret to long-lasting, flawless locks lies in proper care. But here’s the kicker, most people ruin their extensions without realizing it.
If you’ve ever asked yourself how to care for hair extensions without ending up in a tangle (literally), you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down expert-approved tips that simplify hair extension maintenance, no salon degree required. From daily habits to deep conditioning secrets, consider this your roadmap to extending the life (and beauty) of your extensions. Ready to treat your hair like a pro?
Know Your Hair Extension Type
Not all hair extensions are created equal, and neither is their maintenance. Are you wearing clip-ins, tape-ins, sew-ins, or keratin bonds? Each type demands a different care routine.
Clip-ins need gentle daily removal; tape-ins require careful cleansing around adhesive areas; sew-ins need scalp care and moisture; and bonded extensions require heat-safe handling. Not knowing your type is like washing silk the same way you wash jeans, disastrous. Talk to your stylist, research your brand, and know exactly what’s on your head.
Tailoring your care to the extension type is the first step in preventing tangles, breakage, or early fallout.
Cleanse with Care
Washing hair extensions isn’t a one-size-fits-all chore, it’s an art. Over-wash and you’ll strip moisture. Neglect it, and you’re inviting buildup and matting.
Aim to wash semi-permanent extensions every 1–2 weeks, and clip-ins after every 10–15 wears. Always choose sulfate-free, alcohol-free products. Hot water? Big no. Lukewarm water protects the hair’s integrity.
Avoid rough scrubbing, especially near tapes or bonds, and focus your efforts on the mid-lengths and ends. Think of it this way, you’re not just cleaning, you’re preserving. Because every wash is either a step toward silky strands or a fast-track to frizz and fallout.
Brush the Right Way
Brushing may seem basic, but doing it wrong is one of the quickest ways to destroy extensions. Forget regular brushes, opt for loop brushes or wide-tooth combs specifically designed for extensions. Always detangle from the ends up, never top-down.
Extensions can’t repair themselves, so be gentle. Brush twice daily, morning and night, and never yank when wet. Wet hair is vulnerable, so pair brushing with a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray.
Think of brushing like skincare, done correctly, it keeps your investment smooth, healthy, and long-lasting. Done poorly? Say hello to knots, shedding, and irreversible damage.
Use the Right Products
What you put on your hair matters, especially when it’s not growing from your scalp. Extensions don’t receive natural oils, so the wrong products can dry them out fast. Ditch anything with sulfates, parabens, or heavy alcohol.
Avoid thick oils near bonds or tape, which can loosen adhesives. Instead, opt for lightweight leave-in conditioners, smoothing serums, and silicone-free shine sprays. Always apply heat protectant before styling.
Think of your products as armor, they protect your strands from heat, friction, and dehydration. Investing in the right haircare lineup is like choosing skincare for your face, quality makes all the difference.
Minimize Heat Styling
Sure, extensions let you play with new styles, but too much heat? That’s a recipe for disaster. Unlike your natural hair, extensions don’t get revitalized by scalp oils.
That means excessive heat can fry them fast. Stick to low heat settings, under 350°F is ideal, and always, always use a thermal protectant. Better yet, embrace heatless styling hacks like braids or satin rollers.
Letting your extensions air dry when possible also minimizes wear. Want that bombshell blowout look without wrecking your strands? Master low-heat tools or book a professional styling session. Remember, when it comes to heat, less is way more.
Proper Storage Matters
Just like designer clothes need proper storage, so do your extensions. Tossing them on your dresser? Not an option.
Clip-ins and halo extensions should be gently brushed, secured with a soft band, and stored in a breathable pouch or case. Never store them damp, this can lead to mildew or funky odors. For sew-ins or tape-ins, braid your hair loosely before bed and sleep on a silk pillowcase or wear a satin bonnet to prevent tangles and friction.
Treat your extensions like luxury fabric, they deserve care even when you’re not wearing them. Because careless storage shortens their life. Fast.
Schedule Regular Touch-Ups
Hair extensions aren’t “set it and forget it.” Your natural hair keeps growing, and your extensions need repositioning to keep blending well. Most pros recommend touch-ups every 6–8 weeks for tape-ins and sew-ins.
Skipping this step leads to slippage, visible tracks, and even hair breakage. During your touch-up, your stylist can adjust tension, check the bonds, and refresh your overall look. It’s also a great time for a deep conditioning treatment.
Think of touch-ups as oil changes for your hair, they’re non-negotiable if you want your extensions to stay flawless, safe, and stunning.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Even with the best intentions, many people unknowingly sabotage their extensions. Sleeping with wet hair? That’s a tangle trap.
Using oily serums near tape or bond areas? That weakens adhesive. Skipping your brush routine? Welcome to Knot City.
And don’t even think about removing semi-permanent extensions yourself—DIY removal often leads to damage. Another red flag, coloring your extensions at home. Always leave that to a pro.
Extensions are an investment. Treating them like regular hair is a fast path to early shedding and scalp stress. Know the rules.
Respect them. And your extensions will return the love.
FAQs
How do you properly care for hair extensions?
To care for hair extensions, brush them gently, wash them with sulfate-free shampoo, and avoid using too much heat. Always dry them fully before sleeping or storing. This keeps your extensions soft, clean, and long-lasting.
How do I keep my hair healthy while wearing extensions?
Wash and condition your real hair often, and don’t pull too tight on your extensions. Let your scalp breathe and give your hair breaks between styles. Healthy hair helps your extensions stay looking great too.
What is the best aftercare for hair extensions?
The best aftercare is brushing daily, using gentle hair products, and protecting your hair while you sleep. Tie your hair in a loose braid or wear a silk bonnet at night. This helps with good hair extension maintenance.
Do and don’ts of hair extensions?
Do: Brush gently, use soft products, and get regular touch-ups.
Don’t: Sleep with wet hair, use oils near glue or tape, or pull too hard. These tips show how to take care of extensions the right way.
How often should I oil my extensions?
Use a small amount of light oil once a week, only on the ends. Don’t put oil near the roots or tape. This helps keep your hair soft without making it fall out.
Final Thoughts
Hair extensions are fun and can make your hair look long and full. But they do need a little care to stay pretty. Brush them gently, wash them with soft shampoo, and don’t use too much heat.
Go to your stylist every few weeks to keep them looking fresh. Taking care of your extensions also helps your real hair stay strong and healthy. If you’re a stylist who helps clients with hair extensions, Salon Suites of Boca Raton is a great place to grow your business.
Our beautiful salon spaces help you shine. Book a tour today and see for yourself.
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About The Author
Meet Rei Bayucca, a professional writer and passionate expert in all things related to beauty. Every article is purposely designed to assist you in tackling your most challenging dilemmas. Rei’s knack for creating engaging content is guaranteed to ignite your curiosity.
