Caring for Hair Extensions

Hair extensions, or weaves, give the option of length and versatility. Depending on the quality, fiber and texture of the hair extension, it can last from two weeks to several months. Hair extensions are available in either synthetic or human hair. You can most from our hair extensions if we take the time to care for them.

Synthetic Hair

These tend to be more affordable than human hair extensions. They come in a variety of style options and have the amazing ability of maintaining whatever style they are in, curly or straight. And for those who shy away from using them because of how ‘fake’ they might look, innovations in the manufacturing of synthetic hair have led to high quality fibres that are very similar to human hair.

Also, new types of synthetic hair tend to be tolerant of heat, and can be restyled to add more versatility to one’s hair style. To keep your synthetic hair extensions looking better for longer, here are some tips to bear in mind:

1. Synthetic hair is prone to tangling and shedding, more than human hair. Use detangling spray on the extension, to ease the tangling.

2. Avoid using lots of products, e.g. pomade and hair oil, on synthetic weaves. This usually leads to product build-up, which makes the hair feel lifeless, or flaky when you brush it.

3. Synthetic hair is for temporary use, so discontinue use once the weave has lost its style and become unmanageable.

4. Find out if your preferred brand can handle heat, because most synthetic hair extensions are not heat resistant.

Human Hair

These are more expensive than synthetic weaves, but they last longer, can be styled using hot tools, and can be coloured. Human hair extensions are the best option when deciding on hair weaves. They vary in texture - from straight Chinese hair to wavy Brazilian and Indian hair. To maintain the quality of your human hair extensions, bear the following tips in mind:

1. Treat the hair as your own. In other words, wash and condition every two weeks. Extensions do not receive nourishment from your scalp, so it is important to keep them moisturized. When washing human extensions, avoid harsh shampoos. Instead, use those with extra moisturising agents. It is also advisable to deep condition hair extensions at least once, to soften and moisturise.

2. Be gentle when brushing the hair. Brush it softly from the bottom up, to gently release tangles at the end and to avoid tugging and releasing the hair.

3. Be careful when using heat. If you must, seal in moisture by using heat protectant products.

4. For more hair care tips, read our hair care guide.