How to Care for Hair Extensions

Investing in quality hair extensions, like, is a brilliant way to transform your look, adding volume, length, and that undeniable 'wow' factor. But much like a prized possession, your extensions require diligent care to maintain their stunning appearance and ensure their longevity. This isn't just about washing; it's about a holistic approach to daily maintenance, styling, and protection.

Think of your extensions as a beautiful fabric. With the right handling, they'll stay vibrant and flawless. Neglect them, and they can quickly lose their lustre, tangle, and become difficult to manage. 

The Daily Ritual

Brushing isn't just about detangling; it's a critical preventative measure against matting and knotting. It distributes natural oils from your scalp (though less so to the extensions themselves) and removes loose hairs and product build-up.

• Choose the Right Tools: Ditch your standard brush. You'll need a soft-bristle extension brush or a wide-tooth comb. These are designed to glide over the bonds without snagging or pulling, protecting your natural hair and the extension attachment points.

• Technique is Key: Always start brushing from the ends of your hair and work your way upwards, in small sections. Once the ends are tangle-free, move to the mid-lengths, and finally, gently brush the root area where your extensions are attached.

• Support the Bonds: When brushing near the attachment points (wefts, nanos, tapes), gently hold the hair near the roots with one hand to support the bonds and prevent tension or pulling.

• Frequency: Brush your extensions at least twice a day – once in the morning and once before bed. More frequently if you're particularly active or prone to tangles.

The Gentle Approach to Cleanliness

We've discussed washing frequency in detail, but the method itself is paramount. Remember, extensions don't receive natural scalp oils, so they need specific care to avoid drying out or damaging the bonds.

• Sulphate-Free is Non-Negotiable: Always use sulphate-free and paraben-free shampoos and conditioners. Sulphates can strip the hair of moisture and break down the bonds, especially with tape-ins.

• Directional Washing: Always wash your hair with the water flowing downwards, from roots to ends. Avoid flipping your head upside down or piling hair on top of your head, which causes tangling.

• Shampoo the Scalp: Focus shampoo primarily on your natural hair and scalp. Let the lather gently rinse down the extension lengths; there's no need to vigorously scrub the extension hair itself.

• Condition the Lengths: Apply conditioner from mid-lengths to ends, avoiding the roots. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to seal the cuticles.

• Gentle Drying: Never rub vigorously with a towel. Gently squeeze out excess water and blot with a soft microfibre towel. Air dry as much as possible. If using heat, apply a heat protectant and use a low heat setting, ensuring bonds are completely dry.

Protecting Against Heat and Damage

Heat styling is often a part of daily routines, but it's crucial to protect your extensions from excessive heat, which can lead to dryness, brittleness, and breakage.

• Heat Protectant is Your Best Friend: This is essential every single time you apply heat to your extensions. Use a high-quality heat protectant spray evenly from mid-lengths to ends. For tape-in extensions, ensure the product is not oil-based near the bonds.

• Low Heat is Key: Always use the lowest effective heat setting on your straighteners, curling wands, or hairdryers. Higher temperatures can cause irreversible damage to the hair cuticle.

• Move Constantly: When using heat tools, keep them moving; don't let them sit in one spot on the hair for too long.

• Limit Frequency: Try to minimise heat styling where possible. Embrace air-dried styles or heatless curling methods on occasion to give your extensions a break.

• Product Choice: Opt for lightweight styling products to avoid build-up that can weigh down the hair or compromise bond integrity. Avoid products containing alcohol, which can dry out extensions.

Preventing Tangles Overnight

The way you sleep can significantly impact the condition of your extensions. Tossing and turning can cause friction, leading to tangles, matting, and stress on the bonds.

• Braid or Ponytail: Before bed, gently braid your hair into a loose plait (or two, depending on thickness) or gather it into a low, loose ponytail. This keeps the hair contained and minimises friction. Avoid high ponytails or tight buns, which can pull on the bonds.

• Silk or Satin Pillowcase: Swap your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one. These materials create less friction against the hair, reducing tangles, frizz, and breakage compared to rougher cotton.

• Never Sleep with Wet Hair: Always ensure your extensions are completely dry before going to bed. Sleeping on wet extensions can lead to matting, mould near the bonds (in extreme cases), and discomfort.

Additional Care Tips

• Swimming & Sea Water: Chlorine and saltwater can be very damaging to extensions, causing dryness, discolouration, and tangling.
  
  

• Before swimming, wet your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a barrier.

• Braid your hair and wear a swimming cap if possible.

• After swimming, rinse your hair immediately with fresh water and gently wash with a clarifying (but extension-safe) shampoo to remove chlorine/salt residue, followed by a deeply hydrating conditioner.
  
  

• Regular Salon Maintenance: Schedule regular appointments with your stylist for maintenance. This allows them to check the integrity of your bonds, move up extensions that have grown out, and address any potential issues early. This is crucial for the health of your natural hair and the lifespan of your extensions.
  
  

• Professional Products: While drug store brands might seem appealing, investing in high-quality, professional-grade shampoos, conditioners, and styling products specifically recommended for hair extensions will make a significant difference to their longevity and appearance. Glamlox can advise on the best products for their hair.
  
  

• Colouring Extensions: While Glamlox extensions are 100% Remy human hair, it's strongly advised to avoid colouring them yourself. Any chemical processing should only be done by a professional colourist experienced with extensions, as it can drastically alter the hair's condition and lifespan. Bleaching is almost always discouraged.

By integrating these care routines into your daily life, you’re not just preserving the beauty of your Glamlox extensions; you’re protecting your investment and ensuring you continue to enjoy that incredible volume and length for months to come. Consistent, gentle care is the secret to lasting lustre and effortless glamour.

Ready to invest in gorgeous, long-lasting hair? Explore the full Glamlox hair extensions collection and find the perfect match for your stunning new look.