How to care for my Keratin Bond Hair Extensions?
Why: Hair extensions are naturally prone to tangle especially if they are long. Brushing 2-3 times a day will eliminate the majority of tangling issues thus keeping your extensions smooth and manageable.
How: By using your new extension brush that I gifted you in your gift bag that is specifically designed for hair extensions. Begin brushing at the tips of the extensions and slowly work your way to your roots. Avoid pulling on your bonds. The brush should glide right through them. Aim to brush when you wake up and before you go to bed and any time you feel brushing is necessary.
2. How to wash and condition Hair Extensions
Frequency: Plan to wash your hair extensions at least one to two times a week, certain lifestyles may require more frequent washing, to avoid product buildup while keep your hair extensions hydrated.
Products: Use only Sulfate-free shampoo for hair extensions such as what is included in your gift bag. These products are designed for hair extensions and are my personal recommendation to help your extensions last as long as possible.
How to wash: It is best to practice putting your top hair in a jaw clip so you can focus on washing your bonds. After getting that hair wet apple a small amount of shampoo and gently work in to your roots and around the bonds. Use the running water to help push the shampoo down your lengths without the motion of scrubbing. Scrubbing will lead to tangling. Once complete rinse and repeat this time adding in your top hair. After thoroughly rinsing you may condition.
How to condition: Apply sulfate-free condition, also included in your gift bag, to your top hair first then apply below your bonds to the ends. Gently use a wide tooth comb to detangle your hair extensions and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes. As your extension age you might want to consider using a sulfate-free hair mask in place of your conditioner for extra moisture and nourishment. Rinse thoroughly. Squeeze dry with your hands to remove as much water as possible.
How to towel dry: I highly advise the use of a microfiber towel as this type of towel will remove the most amount of water from your hair. Regardless of towel type gently squeeze the hair to eliminate water. I do not recommend wrapping hair extensions in a towel as there will be undue stress to the bonds. The more gentle you are the better and safer your hair extension experience will be.
3. Moisturizing Hair Extension/Keratin Bonds
Why: Hair extensions do not get natural oils from your scalp making it crucial to keep them hydrated.
How: Apply a hair oil, I included one in your gift bag or an extension safe leave-in conditioner being sure to avoid the bonds not cause slippage or weaken the keratin bond. This will help prevent dryness considering we live in Phoenix Arizona where it is hot and dry the majority of the year.
4. Heat Styling Hair Extensions
Heat Protection: Always use a heat protectant whether it is a cream or spray when using hot tools such as straighteners, curling irons, wands, blow dryers and blow brushes. Keep your hot tools below 365ºF to avoid damaging and/or discoloring your extensions.
Blow Drying: Let your hair extensions air dry for as long possible. Be sure to turn your blow dryer heat down to medium or low to prevent damage or softening of the keratin bond.
5. How to sleep with your Hair Extensions
Protection: Before going to bed, thoroughly brush your hair extensions then place in a loose braid to prevent tangling. Never go to bed with wet hair. Your hair extensions will be a tangled mess when you wake up.
Pillowcase: Use a silk or satin pillowcase. These materials create less friction, reducing frizz and keeping your hair extensions smooth and manageable.
6. Avoiding Chlorine and Saltwater
Why: Chlorine and Saltwater are known irritants to hair extensions. They cause dryness, tangling and discoloration. Avoid submerging your hair extensions in chlorine or saltwater. If they happen to get wet rinse immediately.
How: Before swimming, apply a leave in conditioner to slightly damp hair and put in a braid or bubble braid.
7. Hair Extension Maintenance
Why: Regular maintenance helps avoid unnecessary damage that wearing hair extensions are prone to.
How Often: I invite my clients in Phoenix, Arizona in for once a month complimentary blowout to assess your hair extensions so they remain in optimal condition for the duration of your experience.
8. Avoiding Heavy Hair Products
Why: Heavy styling products with silicone like gels and waxes can lead to product buildup and weigh down your hair extensions.
How: Use lightweight products designed for hair extension, avoiding direct application to the bonds.
9. Managing Matting and Shedding
Matting: Prevent matting by regularly brushing your hair extensions. Apply moisturizing products like leave in conditioners and hair oil. Separate any clumped bonds gently with your fingers.
Shedding: While some shedding is normal, excessive shedding might indicate improper care. If something seems off speak to me immediately so we can work to find a solution.
10. Post-Workout Hair Extension Care
No Wash Workout Day: On days that you are working out and skipping a wash, blow dry your hair on low heat to remove sweat. Apply hair oil as needed.
Wash Workout Day: On days that you are working out and will be washing your hair after be certain to shampoo twice to remove excess sweat, odor and product. Rinse thoroughly and condition. Apply hair products such as hair oil, leave in conditioner and heat protection as needed.
Final Thoughts On Hair Extension Care
By following these steps that I have outlined above, you can ensure that your extensions stay in optimal condition. Proper home care is essential to a successful hair extension experience. If you are in Phoenix and looking for expert advice or help considering if hair extensions are for you, I take pride in being a top luxury hairstylist near you offering the best Eastern European Remy hair extensions.
Daily Brushing is the single most important thing you can do to protect your new keratin bond hair extensions