Double the lifespan of your hair extensions with these hacks

A girl can get a lot out of quality hair extensions. Along with gorgeous hair in minutes, they hold up much better than their poor quality, synthetic counterparts. We're revealing the hacks that will help you get the absolute most out of your hair extensions, so keep reading to get the scoop! Good quality clip-in hair extensions are an investment that pays off the minute you clip them in for the first time and see the volume, length, and versatility it gives to your style. Still, properly caring for the extensions makes the investment even more worthwhile.

Clip-in hair extensions are part of many women’s daily routines, and just as we are aware of how important it is to wash our makeup off at the end of the day for the health of our skin, the preservation of extensions also require a few quick steps that will help double their lifespan and also maintain the health of our natural hair and scalp.  

While we focus on clip-in hair extensions, these hacks will prove useful for most extensions. Want to double the lifespan of your favorite hair extensions? Take note.

Storing your extensions

Storing your extensions properly is one of the best and simplest ways to keep them looking better, longer – and it doesn’t take that much time or effort. After removing your extensions, ensure the clips are closed and give them a thorough brush before putting them away.  Extensions can also be stored in an airtight container and even a shoebox, if you’re big on repurposing. The key is to keep the extensions out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place. It’s also important to ensure the hair extensions are dry before storing them away to help prevent any product build-up, mold, and any other bacteria.

Brush often

Brushing is essential before storing your extensions, and using the right brush is just as important. Traditional brushes can sometimes snag or pull on hair causing the extensions to break. Other safe brush options include soft-bristle brushes or a wide-tooth comb.

Make sure to never brush the extensions when they are wet because this is when breakage is more likely to occur. Also, start and the ends and work upwards towards the root to feel out for any knots and prevent snagging the hair. Don’t reserve brushing just for when you're about to store your extensions. Instead, brush the hair throughout the day to prevent knots from forming. Keeping the hair tangle-free prevents matting and extends the look and the lifespan of your extensions.

Avoid multiple hair products

Using multiple products on your hair extensions means more work will be required to remove and replenish the hair. It can also cause damage, stripping, and breakage. Using a variety of styling products in hair extensions causes product buildup and in some cases, this can decrease the lifespan of extensions. It’s best to use products sparingly or only when absolutely needed such as using a heat protectant spray before using hot tools. Keep in mind hair extensions will usually curl easier and faster than natural hair, so keep the temperature on styling tools very low. Using hair oils, especially for the ends of the extensions is encouraged as this will help prevent split ends.

Only wash extensions when necessary

Products and washing go hand-in-hand; the more products you use, the more often you have to wash your hair and your extensions, which really should be avoided when trying to extend their lifespan. For daily extension wearers, a general rule is to wash hair extensions after every 30 wears or once a month. If you notice a ton of product build-up or if the extensions are becoming increasingly difficult to style, it’s probably time for a wash.

Remember, unlike our natural hair that will produce oils to keep strands moisturized, extensions do not. That’s why using a hair oil, or sulfate and alcohol-free conditioner is important in preserving the lifespan of your hair extensions. Sometimes, washing with conditioner only and skipping shampoo is also a good way to keep the extensions looking and feeling like new. Use your judgment based on how often you wear your extensions, how you style them, and how long you’ve had them to determine whether a shampoo is necessary.

Taking a few moments to follow these tips will ensure your extensions last. Consider it a beauty investment that pays off with beautiful length, volume, and style every time you wear them! 

Reference: https://www.luxyhair.com/blogs/hair-blog/how-to-make-hair-extensions-last-longer