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!
Extensions made from real human, Remy hair like Luxy Hair extensions offer the most natural look that also feels and moves like it’s your own hair. 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. We recommend storing them in the Luxy box they come in or in the Luxy Hair Extensions Carrier that comes with a hanger that can also be used to dry and style your extensions. 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.
Before storing your extensions, make sure they are thoroughly brushed and use a hair tie to secure the wefts near the base of the hair. Then, gently roll the extensions into a loose circle. To pre-style the extensions, use the hair and tie it in a gentle knot before storing them in the box, this will create a nice wave for when you’re ready to wear them next.
Alternatively, using the Extensions Carrier also allows for easy styling as the extensions can hang from the bamboo hanger, this will also help maintain its shape when storing after being styled.
Brush often
Brushing is essential before storing your extensions, and using the right brush is just as important. The Loop Hair Extensions Brush is best as it’s made with nylon bristles that are looped, making it easier to glide through the hair and gently remove any tangles. 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.
Have multiple sets
It’s okay to have more than one set. In fact, it’s better! Imagine hopping out of bed after hitting snooze a couple of times to realize you’re running late with a big day ahead. Instead of using precious minutes to curl or style your extensions, imagine having a curled set ready to be clipped-in.
If you can swing it, having one straight set of hair extensions and one curly set helps save you time and give you options for any occasion. It also minimizes the need to heat style your extensions which will keep them in good shape for longer.
Just as many women like to transform their color or highlights with the season, having darker hair extensions for the winter months and lighter extensions for spring/summer will also help your extensions last longer. Luxy Hair has 20 different shades and a range of styles including balayage and ombre to suit any season. Consider investing in two sets to allow for more styling options to suit whatever mood or season you’re in.
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.
Avoid products with SLS, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Alcohol Denat, Ethanol, SD Alcohol 40, Propanol, Isopropyl, and Propyl. Using sulfate-free and alcohol-free shampoos, conditioners, and other styling products helps preserve the health and longevity of the hair as sulfates and alcohol strips the hair of natural oils and dries strands out quicker, causing tangles, split ends, and matting. Read the labels of your hair products carefully. Be mindful that even the products you use in your natural hair may transfer into the extensions your wearing, so it's best to steer clear of these products all around.
If you’re looking for a color refresh, remember Remy hair extensions can be dyed a darker color, but not lighter or bleached – this will cause serious damage to the hair. If you can’t find the exact shade you’re looking for in extensions, it’s best to take your extensions to a professional when looking to color or dye them. Use one weft of hair extensions first to test the color before you dye your full set. Remember that hair extensions will adapt differently to color and product than natural hair and may require a different process.
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.
When washing, handle the extensions gently and avoid vigorous rubbing. Rinse the extensions in cold water to help preserve moisture at the end of your cleansing routine. Allow your extensions to air dry or lay them flat on top of a micro-fiber towel as this material will soak up excess water. Remember to never rub your extensions dry with a towel, and gently pat the extensions instead. If possible, it's best to avoid blow-drying the extensions, but if necessary, ensure to use a heat-protectant product and a cool temperature setting. To help prevent frizz, apply a small amount of hair oil from the mid to the ends of the extensions and always ensure they are properly dried before storing them away.
Do not sleep or workout with hair extensions
While extensions may be part of your daily routine, it’s best to keep them out of some of your daily activities to help keep them lasting longer.
Remove your hair extensions before bed and don’t sleep in them. The friction against your pillow (even if you sleep on a silk pillowcase), as well as from the tossing at night will entangle the wefts with each other and your natural hair. Clips may also come loose and pull on your natural hair. Clip-in hair extensions are made to be easy to clip in and remove so you can ensure both you and your extensions get some well-deserved beauty sleep.
While the natural oils and sweat can be easily cleaned and washed away post-workout, the same does not go for hair extensions. Sweat will cause matting to the wefts and may produce bacteria if you don’t wash your extensions. The constant movement and friction will also cause tangles and knots. Essentially, make sure to remove your hair extensions before heading to the gym or starting any sweat session, this will help keep the hair dry, healthy and last longer.
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! Do you have any hair extension hacks you sweat by? Let us know in the comments below!
Written by: Rosalyn Solomon
