How to Wash Hair Extensions

Temporary extensions come in the form of clip in and micro rings which are easily taken off when you wash your real hair. This type of extensions last longer as you don't have to wash them as frequent as your natural hair. The good thing about them is that you can wash them separately anytime you feel they need washing.

Permanent extensions come in the form of pre bonded or sewn in hair extension. With this type of extension you have to take a little more care as you have to wash them along with your real hair. Before you wash your hair just make sure that your extensions are tangle free and straighten out.

Washing with a good shampoo and conditioner

Use a good shampoo and conditioner for your hair extensions. Soak hair in lukewarm water thoroughly like you normally do with your natural hair and apply the shampoo. Gently lather them to avoid tangling and stroke them from roots to the tip in the same direction as your hair growth. Make sure you wash your roots carefully so that you remove excessive oil that develops in your scalp. Next wash it off with water and then apply the conditioner. Condition it well and whilst doing this comb it through very gently so that you get a smooth texture and feel in your extensions and your natural hair. This encourages a longer lasting extension. While combing through your hair remember to start from the tip and move upwards to avoid any tangles at the joints which will damage you extensions. While you leave in the conditioner for a couple of minutes continue to comb through your hair. Finish off by washing your hair thoroughly until water runs clear.

Drying process

Dry the hair by soaking it with a towel. Do not crumple and tie it up in a bun like you normally do with a towel when you walk out of the shower. Just gently wrap the towel on your head and let it soak out the water until dripping stops. Again gently comb out the hair from the tip and then move up towards the roots, using a big tooth comb. Avoid using a small tooth comb as the hair is at its most sensitive stage and will cause split ends, break and tear.

Refrain from using a hair dryer as it dries out the hair quicker, only use one when you really have to. Let it dry out naturally whilst styling it with a brush. In case of clip in's dry them out by clipping them onto a clothed hanger.

The simplest way to treat your hair extensions is to treat them like your normal hair. Once you get used to the process it's really simple and easy. It is recommended to wash your temporary hair extensions just once a week and the normal 2 or 3 times a week for your permanent extensions.

Credit : Zoe Barker