Hair Extensions Aftercare

Im sure your very excited now you have your extensions fitted but also are wondering what its going to be like looking after them on a daily basis. I have created this guild to help you out with all things extension

It’s just your own hair but a bit thicker and longer hair   First off... it’s probably going to feel a bit strange .. you have more hair which means a bit more weight on your scalp. It may feel a little tight but don’t worry this is very normal. They can feel uncomfortable when you sleep for up to 7 days but after that they will loosed up be allot more comfortable some clients also say about itching this will usually only last a couple of days if your experience this longer than this it could be a build up of products and will probably just need a good wash and extra rinsing and this should help. Discomfort isn’t a sign of a problem so don’t worry – in a few days you’ll be so used to it you won’t remember life without them. The science part – your hair NEVER stops growing so day by day the weave/bonds are getting looser mm by mm. That’s why it becomes more comfortable as its growing (BONUS). I aim to never put too much tension on the natural hair so the way your extensions are fitted are in a very specific position so you get the longest lasting and most comfortable wear from them. I would avoid any tight or high hair styles for the first few days. This is going to add even more tension to your scalp unnecessarily. Keep it in a low pony or loose plait or bun if you need to tie it back for work or the gym.  You will lose on average 100-150 natural hairs daily this is totally normal this is the hair you use to see in the hair brush and plug hole but now these hairs will sit in the bonds and can causing matting also loosing a few extensions between appointments is totally normal. 

​

Shampoo and conditioning 

​

Before washing it is advised to detangle your extension hair with a extension brush and separate the bonds. It is essential you only use shampoo and conditioner that is designed for hair extension use that we recommend. Using the correct product will extend your life span on your extensions if you choose not to use the recommended products this is at your own risk i take no liability in this event and the hair can be removed and send away to check if anything has been used that shouldn’t have. When washing your hair, do not tip your head forwards over the bath as this could cause tangling - always wash with your head upright – in the shower is ideal. Smooth the shampoo down the extension hair – do not rub vigorously! Only condition from the mid lengths down to the ends of the hair. Do not apply any conditioner to the bonds/rings/tape as this may cause slippage. You can pick the top section of your own hair up and apply condition to this section just try and avoid your root area. Blot hair gently when drying – do not rub.

​

Washing is recommended 1-2 times weekly 

Please remember your extensions are at there weakest when wet.

​

Drying

​

Please only blot your hair with a towel do not scrub you can wrap your hair in a towel to cut down drying time but do not let your hair dry like this it will matt

Dry root thoroughly if these are left damp it will cause matting.

When blow drying put your hair dryer on a lower heat extensions will take longer to dry than your natural hair buy please do not be tempted to tie you hair up wet this will cause the hair to matt and do not go bed with wet hair.

You can use all heated styling tools like you would on natural hair but please lower the heat and keep away form bonds they will melt if you come into contact with them.

Always use a heat protection leave in conditioner and hair oil prior to drying.

​

Brushing

​

When brushing hold them at the roots while you gently brush the hair through it is normal to lose a few strands during this time . For a sleek finish, section your hair off and blow dry using brush with soft bristles or my fave is Remi cachet paddle brush which is stocked in the salon Is great for a speedy and smooth blow dry. You can blow dry your extensions as you would your own hair, just more gently so you don’t pull too much, pulling them too hard will loosen your extensions and will be uncomfortable on your scalp! You may find the hair feels fluffy once dry, so use heat protector and finish by using a good quality straightening iron. If you want to air dry them, it’s no problem during the day but word of warning – they will look fluffy / frizzy until tamed with heat! Be very careful that you do not snag the bonds. Heated Rollers, Straightening Irons, crimpers and tongs can all be used on the extension hair although it is advisable to use a Heat Protection Spray to protect the both your hair and the extension hair EVERY TIME you use heat. Hairsprays, can be used but avoid the bonded areas as this may cause slippage. Hairspray will cause product build up over time and can make the extensions feel dry/knotty if not washed out properly.   Brushing/styling Remember your extensions are attached to your own natural hair, pulling too hard or mistreating your extensions can result in your own hair being pulled out. The only brush you should use near to your extension bonds is a soft bristle brush - meaning the brush gently glides over the bonds or weave row. When brushing the extensions always hold the weave row/bonds, making sure no additional stress is put on the hair. Brushing your hair when its wet is a no no! The extension attachment Is most fragile when wet and the hair can get knotty. Wait until you’ve blasted the hair off a little before you start blow drying with a brush.

Sleeping

​

Tie your hair back in a loose ponytail or plait using a soft scrunchie for bed.

Styling

Styling your new hair can be a lot of fun but please understand your extensions are fitted in your head to suit the majority of hair styles but mainly down. Half up half down styles and slick high pony’s may be more difficult to cover the extensions.

Pregnancy

    Pregnancy and extensions Getting a weave during pregnancy usually does no harm at all. Why not make yourself feel fabulous with your bump! One thing I must highlight though is the major hormone changes you’ll experience. Your hair can change a lot... grow loads and thicken up (YAY) or start to shed and thin out. If you choose to wear extensions during pregnancy I’m happy for you to come to me as long as you understand that your hair can change and that if you start drastically shedding or malting, you can’t blame it on the extensions. Ive had so many clients who have worn them before during and after pregnancy and it’s your choice if you want them in or not.

 Holidays

Holidays with your extensions is always going to be at your own risk. Saying that, if you do go away with them in then have a read through this section. This is to be followed on top of your usual aftercare regime. I do not advise that you swim when wearing extensions as prolonged water exposure especially with chemicals may weaken the bonds /tape. Chlorine in pools and salt in the sea combined with heat can also cause the extension hair to discolour, deteriorate in condition and matt. If you do swim we recommend you take the following precautions: Brush through your hair and extensions and ensure its tangle free, then place your extensions into a braid or plait using a covered bobble use leave in conditioner on the hair to give that extra protection. DO NOT I REPEAT DO NOT GO IN THE POOL WITH KNOTTY HAIR OR HAIR IN A BUN – IT WILL MATT TOGETHER! Been there, done that … spent hours brushing out dread locks for clients. Avoid getting the extension hair wet where possible. Even avoiding the pool and sea and only washing your hair in the hotel shower may still have an effect on the extensions. Foreign water can contain a high hard water content. If you do have discoloration (pinky peachy or orangey tones) you will need to purchase the Malibu hard water wellness sachets! They are great at removing the discoloration. I do have these for sale in the salon.

Sunbeds Saunas & steam rooms

Wrap hair in a towel and hair cap while on a sunbed. Saunas/steam rooms  Regular use is not recommended but if you do use them wrap your hair in a towel.

Cutting

Hair extensions are cut by a totally different technique than when your normal hair is cut so always come back to me if your wanting a trim during you wearing your extensions you will need to have them trimmed so they look in perfect condition.#

​

Maintenance

Regular maintenance are essential when wearing extensions. These appointments not only allow me to move your extensions to there original position but i will also be checking to ensure your natural hair & scalp remains healthy & prevent any damage happening.

​

Maintenance times range from 6-10 weeks depending on each individual client & method.

​

If maintenance times are not followed i am not liable for any damage that is caused to the natural hair or extensions.

​

​

Important things to remember

I do not recommend colouring, tinting or perming the extension hair as these types of products contain elements that can damage the extension hair and even though our extensions are 100% human hair. Doing so will void returns policy on faulty goods. This means if the hair was faulty (matting, bushy, excessively knotty, shedding) the brand would do nothing about it as they would pin it on the colouring/toners used.
The more heat you use on the hair extension the shorter the life span of the hair, treat your extensions with the same respect as you would with you own natural hair. Try to keep the curling and straightening to a minimum.
Lighter Shades may have a slightly shorter life span than darker shades on average. The lighter shades will need extra care and less heat application to increase the lifespan. Colours can fade over time and it will happen quicker if the hair is drying out from heat damage or excessive washing!
Be careful with silver shampoo – it can grab very quickly and make blonde extensions blue real quick! Using it is at your own risk. Water it down if you need to use silver shampoo and be extra careful. Silver shampoo can dry the extensions out over time.

​

PLEASE avoid any supermarket shampoos. They are not good for your extensions or your own hair. Don’t spend a lot on your extensions to use poor quality products .. your hair life span will shorten and it may discolour them and dry them out unnecessarily. Please only use the recommended products and all products are available to purchase in the salon

It may seem a lot to take in but once you get in a routine you won’t remember life without them. If you get stuck on anything just drop me a message, I will be more than happy to help!      

Rachel xx