Hair extensions are a great way to add length, volume, and texture to your hair. Whether you want to achieve a voluminous ponytail, a chic braid, or flowing beachy waves, extensions can help you achieve your desired look. However, wearing them requires some effort and proper maintenance to ensure that they stay healthy and look natural. Here are some dos and don’ts of wearing extensions that will help you achieve your desired look while keeping your hair healthy and damage-free.
Choosing the Right Type of Extensions
The first step in wearing hair extensions is to choose the right type for your hair type and texture. They come in various types such as clip-in, sew-in, tape-in, and micro-ring extensions. Each type of elongation has its pros and cons, and it’s essential to choose one that best suits your hair type and lifestyle.
For instance, clip-ins are great for those who want to add volume or length occasionally, while sew-ins are more suitable for those who want a more permanent solution. It’s best to consult with a professional stylist who can help you choose the right type of extensions based on your hair type and desired look.
Consult with a Professional
Before getting extensions, it’s essential to consult with a professional stylist who can assess the condition of your hair and determine whether extensions are suitable for you. A stylist can also help you choose the right type of color and length that best suits your face and desired look. They can also teach you how to properly maintain your extensions, including how to wash, dry, and style them.
Do: Take Care of Your Extensions
Just like your natural hair, hair extensions require proper care and maintenance to keep them healthy and looking natural. It’s essential to follow a care routine that includes washing, conditioning, and styling your weaves regularly. However, it’s important to use the right products that are specifically designed for them to avoid damage. Also, avoid using too much product, as it can weigh down your strands and make them look greasy.
Don’t: Sleep with Wet Extensions
Sleeping with wet extensions can cause them to tangle and mat, making them difficult to brush and style. It’s best to let them naturally or blow-dry them on a low setting before going to bed. You can also tie them into a loose braid or ponytail to keep them from tangling while you sleep.
Do: Brush Regularly
Brushing your extensions regularly helps prevent tangles and keeps them looking smooth and shiny. However, it’s important to use a soft-bristled brush or a special brush to avoid damaging the hair. Start by brushing the ends of your piece and gradually work your way up to the roots, gently detangling any knots along the way.
Don’t: Overuse Heat-Styling Tools
Heat-styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage your extensions and cause them to become dry and brittle. If you must use heat-styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage. It’s also important to use a low heat setting and avoid applying heat to the roots.
Do: Use High-Quality Hair Care Products
Using high-quality care products that are specifically designed for extensions can help keep them healthy and looking natural. Look for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that are gentle on the hair and avoid products that contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals that can strip the hair of its natural oils. It’s also important to use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your strands soft and moisturized.
Don’t: Ignore Any Discomfort or Irritation
If you experience any discomfort or irritation while wearing your extensions, it’s important to address it immediately. This could be a sign that they are too tight or that they are causing damage to your natural hair. It’s best to consult with a professional stylist who can help you adjust your piece or remove them if necessary.
Do: Consider Your Hair Type and Lifestyle
When choosing extensions, it’s essential to consider your hair type and lifestyle. If you have fine or thin hair, you may want to opt for lightweight strands that won’t weigh down your hair. If you are very active and sweat a lot, you may want to choose the ones that are easy to wash and maintain. It’s important to choose pieces that will work with your lifestyle and allow you to enjoy your new look without any restrictions.
Don’t: Wear Extensions for Too Long
Wearing extensions for too long can cause damage to your natural hair and scalp. It’s important to remove them every 6-8 weeks and give your natural hair a break to breathe and recover. This will help prevent breakage and damage to your natural hair and ensure that your extensions last longer.
Do: Store Them Properly
Storing your extensions properly when you’re not wearing them is essential to keep them looking and feeling their best. It’s best to store them in a clean and dry place, such as a storage bag or a clean shoebox. Avoid storing them in humid or damp areas, as this can cause them to become tangled and matted.
Don’t: Forget to Have Fun with Your New Look!
Wearing extensions can be a great way to experiment with new styles and looks. Don’t be afraid to have fun with your extensions and try out different hairstyles, colors, and textures. Just remember to follow the dos and don’ts of wearing them to ensure that they stay healthy and look natural.
In conclusion, wearing hair extensions can be a great way to achieve your desired look and boost your confidence. However, it’s important to choose the right type of extensions, consult with a professional stylist, and follow a proper hair care routine to ensure that they stay healthy and damage-free. By following the dos and don’ts of wearing hair extensions, you can enjoy your new look while keeping your natural hair healthy and looking great.
