Extensions can be an amazing way to add length and volume to your natural hair, especially if you have the type of hair that doesn't grow quickly. However, even the most high quality extensions applied by top stylists can be very damaging if the proper steps to care for them aren't taken by the wearer. Here are some maintenance tips to help you keep your scalp and natural hair healthy while wearing extensions.
- Use The Right Shampoo
Extensions are adhered to your natural hair via chemical bonds applied by your stylist. These bonds, if not properly cared for, can begin to dissolve and damage the surrounding hair. This is why it's crucial to use a shampoo that is especially designed for extension wearers. Your stylist can guide you towards the right products.
- Deep Condition Regularly
Extensions can be very damaging to the surrounding hair, especially at the point where they were attached. To combat this damage, make deep conditioning a part of your weekly hair regimen. Find a hair mask or treatment that you can let sit in your hair for 10 minutes to an hour, allowing it to deeply penetrate your hair. When you rinse it out, your hair will feel softer and healthier.
- Style Carefully
It's bad enough to tug and rip at your hair when you don't have extensions. When you have extensions, it's even more crucial that you treat your hair gingerly. Use brushes and combs that are designed for extension wearers to prevent snagging or damage. When heat styling, always protect your hair with a heat-protective product. Try to avoid heat styling whenever possible. If you are spending the weekend in, let your hair dry naturally and give it a rest from blow-dryers and flat irons.
- Visit Your Stylist Regularly
To ensure that your hair doesn't become damaged over time from extensions, it's important to regularly visit your stylist. He or she will be able to survey your extensions and the progress of their growth and determine if it's time to remove the old extensions and add new ones.
Extensions can be damaging to your natural hair. However, if you follow these steps and treat them with care, your hair and scalp will stay healthy throughout the time that you wear your extensions. As long as you follow the right steps, you can enjoy the length and volume that your beautiful extensions create for you.
