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Real Hair Extensions Maintenance

by Allison Boelcke

Overview

Hair extensions are pieces of hair attached to your hair near the scalp to add fullness or length. Extensions are available in synthetic materials or real hair. Real hair extensions are more expensive than synthetic but give a more seamless, natural appearance. With proper maintenance, you can extend the lifetime of your real hair extensions.
Cleaning

Shampoo and condition your hair and the attached extensions approximately every two days because bacteria can form under the extensions. Use your fingertips to gently massage the shampoo into your scalp. Do not scratch at the area where your extensions are attached because they tangle easily and could detach if handled too roughly. Rinse the shampoo thoroughly, then apply a thin, even layer of extra-moisturizing formula conditioner onto the length of your hair and the extensions. Real hair extensions can easily dry out and become frizzy without regular conditioning because they don't receive any of the natural oils from your scalp. Leave the conditioner on for three minutes, then rinse.

Drying

Pat hair dry with a towel, but do not rub because real hair extensions tangle easily. Any knots must be removed as soon as possible before hair dries after showering or swimming. Apply a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray onto wet hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to slowly and gently loosen any knots or tangles. If any stubborn knots remain, apply more detangling spray and continue combing. Do not pull on the knots or the extensions can become loose. Once the extensions are tangle-free, blow dry hair while gently brushing it with a wide paddle brush to keep extensions smooth. Leave extra time for blow drying because extensions may take longer to dry than your regular hair.
Styling

You can style your hair extensions the same way as you normally style your regular hair. If possible, avoid heat styling tools, such as straightening irons or curlers. Exposure to daily heat can decrease the lifespan of your hair extensions and cause them to frizz or dry out. You can wear your hair up even with extensions. Gently pull hair back in your desired style, making sure that the top of your extensions are not visible. Most extensions are attached to the hair on the back of your scalp, so avoid pulling hair too high. Comb hair to remove any tangles immediately after removing any up-do hair styles.
Reapplication

Visit a hair stylist every six to eight weeks to get your hair extensions tightened. As your actual hair grows, the extensions will start to become looser. The stylist will remove the extensions and reattach them closer to your scalp. Do not go longer than eight weeks without getting the extensions tightened or they could partially detach or pull out some of your actual hair. If you wear extensions that are a different color than your natural hair, get it colored every four to six weeks so you don't have a noticeable color difference.