Tips for Maintaining Hair Extensions Between Move-Ups

The rumors are true - hair extensions require some additional care to stay looking their best. However, those extra steps are necessary for happy scalp health, fewer appointments in between move-ups, and for getting the most out of your investment so the hair lasts as long as possible!  The more consistently you follow a maintenance routine, the easier and simpler it will feel. Here are some key tips to keep them in top shape:

Proper Washing Techniques

Washing your hair with extensions requires a gentle approach. Using a sulfate-free shampoo, focus the product on your scalp only. When washing near the wefts, take only a couple of fingers and gently massage the shampoo onto your natural hair to avoid tugging the hair enclosed in the bead, bond, or tapes. Avoid scrubbing or bunching the hair - this helps prevent pulling on the extensions held in by beads, bonds, or tapes. Doing so may even cause the extensions to loosen and slip earlier than you planned. Always rinse thoroughly!

Pro Tip: Watch our video tutorial for a step-by-step guide HERE on washing extensions properly. Stylists—feel free to share it with your clients to help them maintain their hair between move-ups!

Gentle Brushing & Detangling

To prevent premature slipping and breakage over time, it’s important to brush your extensions very carefully multiple times throughout the day. Using a smoothing bristle brush or an extension-friendly detangling brush, always start from the ends and work your way up, holding the extensions at the scalp to reduce tension. Doing so will keep the extensions in place for longer, and keep your scalp healthy! 

When detangling wet hair extensions, use extra caution and don't forget a detangling spray! Wet hair is always more fragile and prone to damage. Take extra care using the steps above to keep your natural hair and extensions feeling their best! 

Take Extra Care With Daily Styling

Extensions are the perfect, exciting excuse to try new styles you may not have been able to achieve before! But when it comes to updos or heat styling, it’s important to be mindful of where your wefts or bonds are placed. If you’re going for an updo, braids, or any style that pulls your hair back, take care not to tug on the natural hair connected to your extensions. Too much tension can irritate the scalp and may lead to - yep, you guessed it - premature slipping.

When using heat tools, avoid applying them directly to the bonds, beads, or tapes. Excessive heat can weaken the adhesive or structure, causing the extensions to loosen or become damaged. For everyday wear, opt for low-maintenance styles that reduce daily stress on your extensions.

Pro Tip: The great news? Extensions often hold curls longer than natural hair, making it easier to enjoy styled looks throughout the week with minimal effort!

Protective Sleep Styles

Before bed, take a few minutes to prep your extensions. While you sleep, your natural ‘tossing and turning’ causes bedhead - but when it comes to extensions, your average bedhead can turn into a matted disaster! A loose braid or a low ponytail will help prevent tangling and friction during sleep. You can also sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz and breakage.

Final Thoughts

With the right care routine, your extensions can stay looking fresh and beautiful between salon visits. Just a few simple changes and new habits, like gentle washing, careful brushing, and nighttime protection, go a long way in maintaining both the look and integrity of your natural hair and the extensions themselves.

Looking for more personalized care tips? Chat with our team to tailor your routine even further!