Extensions are an investment.
The right at-home routine doubles the time between move-ups and keeps the hair itself looking like the day it was installed.
Sulfate-free shampoo for extensions
Sulfates dry out the bond and the hair. Sulfate-free is the single most important rule. We use a wide-tooth comb and gentle, downward strokes at the bowl — never piled on top of the head.
Lightweight conditioner (mid-shaft to ends)
On the extensions, not on the scalp or the bonds. Heavy conditioners at the bond line can slip the install. Lightweight, applied below the bond, keeps the hair soft without compromising the install.
Wet-detangling brush (not a paddle brush)
A loop brush or wet-detangling brush, used from the ends up — never from the scalp down. The wrong brush is the single fastest way to damage extensions.
Leave-in conditioner for night care
A light leave-in on damp ends before bed. Sleep on a silk pillowcase or with hair in a loose braid. Extensions like to sleep gently.
Extensions care FAQ.
How often should I wash extensions?
Two to three times a week is the sweet spot for hand-tied wefts and tape-ins. More than that dries out the hair; less than that leaves product buildup at the bonds that can compromise the install.
Can I use my regular shampoo on extensions?
Only if your regular shampoo is sulfate-free, silicone-free, and pH-balanced. Most drugstore shampoos fail at least one of those criteria. Your stylist will tell you specifically what to switch to during your install appointment.
Why does my regular brush ruin extensions?
Most paddle brushes have ball-tipped bristles that catch in the bonds and pull. Use a loop brush or a wet-detangling brush, hold the hair above the bonds, and brush from the ends up. A new brush is a $15 investment that extends the life of a much larger one.