How to Care for Hand Tied Extensions
So you’re fresh out the salon rocking your brand new 25 inch hair…. now what?
Your next steps will determine how long your extensions last, how they look through the duration of the wear, and whether your stylist is ecstatic to see you or filled with dread when she sees your extension maintenance appointment on her schedule (we’re mostly kidding, but not really).
We’re about to break down everything you need to know for long lasting, healthy, hydrated extensions, so stay tuned for the best extension experience of your life.
In case your mama didn’t tell you, we’ll be the first. You need to brush your hair at least twice a day, and especially while wearing extensions, as your hair will be a bit more tangle prone. If you’re looking for the best extension brush, look no further. We’ve got both small round and large rectangular brushes for extensions, safe to use on either wet or dry hair.
Regardless of which brush you use, it’s extremely important to be gentle throughout this entire process to protect your natural hair and scalp, so apply gentle pressure at the top of your wefts to reduce tension. Begin detangling your extensions from the very tip, and work your way up the strands until you reach your scalp.
When it comes to sleeping in extensions, your bedtime routine becomes extra important, as breakage, tension, and dryness can all pop up while you’re tossing and turning. Making sure to brush thoroughly, apply your favorite hair oil, and secure your hair in a loose braid, ponytail, or bun before bed prevents your hair from tangling or catching.
Speaking of tangle prevention, silk is your absolute best friend. Friction causes dryness, frizziness, and breakage, so investing in a silk pillowcase, bonnet, scrunchies, etc. (or all of the above) will help your extensions maintain their smooth, hydrated look, and have you ready to go MUCH faster in the morning.
You don’t need to dread wash day anymore love, cause we're about to break down how to wash hand tied extensions stress free.
First off, it’s of the utmost importance that you only use paraben and sulfate free, extension safe shampoo and conditioner on your extensions. Depending on your hair type the frequency with which you wash might vary, but we recommend washing your hair about twice a week.
Prep your hair by thoroughly detangling. If you have multiple rows of extensions, feel free to secure the top half of your hair to allow easier access to your bottom weft. Make sure to fully wet your hair and scalp, and lather shampoo before applying, taking extra care to stimulate the scalp for extra hair growth! Double cleansing your hair ensures removal of dirt and oils, and promotes a healthy, happy scalp!
When applying conditioner and hair masks, take extra care to avoid the tops of your wefts, as hydrating products may cause beads to slip!
When you’re ready to dry, carefully detangle your hair from root to tip, and feel free to dry in sections from bottom row to top (if applicable) for an easier blow dry!
Last but definitely not least, NEVER sleep on wet extensions (hint: mildew possible).
If you’re wondering if you can swim with hand tied extensions, or if you’re able to make it to hot Pilates still, the answer is absolutely yes! You just need to take a few precautions.
Before laying out or taking a dip in the pool, it’s ESSENTIAL you wear an extension safe sunscreen. Most sunscreens contain an ingredient called avobenzone, which turns extensions, especially blonde extension hair, pink, and fixing them is extremely difficult if not impossible.
To prevent your extensions turning green, drying from chlorine or salt, and turning into a painful tangled mess, apply a leave-in conditioner, and secure your hair in a braid before entering the water.
Working out with extensions is similar! Just secure your hair in a way that prevents tension, and you’re good to go! Bonus points for applying a treatment to your ends and a little serum to your scalp before your workout if you’ll be washing your hair after.
What not to do with hand tied extensions
Here’s a few rapid fire extension care mistakes:
❌ Wearing tight hairstyles often
❌ Going too long between maintenance (6-8 weeks max!)
❌ Using drying products with an alcohol base, or sulfates and parabens.
❌ Overly rough treatment
❌ Skipping care for your scalp and ends
In conclusion, hand tied extensions are an investment, and investments need protecting! We want your hair to bring you joy as long as possible, so please make sure to follow these tips, and of course, reach out to our incredible customer care team with any extension care or product questions - we’re here to help!