There are rules about how long you should go without washing your hair, rules about going to bed with wet hair, not using too much heat, using the right shampoo and conditioner — the list goes on. And if you have real human hair extensions, there are a few more rules that you should be aware of to ensure that the product is protected and looks its best.

If you’re new to the world of hair extensions, even if it is made with real human hair, these do’s and don'ts will help keep your hair looking flawless. If it’s time for a new hair extension, whether you’re looking for straight or curly hair, find it at Shari’s Hair Boutique. We offer a wide selection of high-quality real human hair extensions, full lace wigs, lace frontals, and much more.

Do’s of Hair Extensions

Wash Your Hair

Whatever type of hair extension you have, if it’s a clip-in or a hair weft, it’s important to keep it clean. The hair extension needs to be protected and nourished just like your own natural hair. But the challenge is not drying out or damaging the strands. The team at Shari’s Hair Boutique suggests washing the hair extension about three times a week. When you do wash the hair, use a mild shampoo that won’t cause damage. In between using shampoo, you can co-wash, which is using only a conditioner. This will keep the strands moisturized and healthy.

Brush Your Hair

A great hairbrush and a consistent brushing routine will also help keep your real human hair extensions looking amazing. Look for a brush that has widespread bristles that will detangle the hair and prevent matting. When it comes to brushing your hair, don’t be afraid of doing it often. An expert tip is to have the brush with you in the shower. When you’re co-washing, give your hair a good brush to spread out the conditioner before rinsing. Then brush the hair again after it has dried to reduce shedding and matting.

Take Breaks

Hair extensions are typically sewn in or glued on. Either way, hair extensions can cause damage to your natural hair and scalp when used consistently. When possible, take a break from hair extensions, giving your hair and scalp time to recover.

Visit a Salon

If you’re ever unsure about how to care for your hair extensions, or if you need some professional styling tips or hair care products, your local salon will have all the answers. Your hairstylist will be able to offer personalized maintenance advice and guidance on how to best care for your extensions. If you purchase a real human hair extension from Shari’s Hair Boutique, you may want to visit a salon to have them apply the hair. This will ensure a perfect fit and give you an opportunity to ask all of your hair care and maintenance questions.

Don’ts of Hair Extensions

Use Harsh Chemicals

Shampoos and conditioners with man-made ingredients, hair sprays, gels, and even products that are meant to be good for your hair can contain harsh chemicals. But these products can damage your own natural hair, so they’re definitely not the greatest for your hair extension. When washing and conditioning or styling your hair, try to use products that are as natural as possible. Avoid ingredients like parabens, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, and dimethicone.

Sleep With Wet Hair

This is a good rule to follow whether you have a hair extension or not. Going to bed with wet hair will cause your hair to be matted down, knotted, and tangled. This isn’t a good look and it’s not always easy to fix. If you must go to bed with wet hair, braid the hair to prevent matting and wrap your hair with a silk scarf to prevent tangling.

Buy a Hair Extension That Doesn’t Match

The purpose of a hair extension is generally to “extend” the length of your natural hair. To create a cohesive look, choose a real human hair extension that best matches the color and feel of your natural hair. If you’re going for a completely different look from your natural hair color and style, you may want to consider getting a full lace wig that will create a natural look from root to tip.

Use Too Much Heat

Using heated styling tools is almost a must when you need to create a certain look for your hair, but over time, too much heat can cause a lot of damage. If you need to use heat, apply a heat protectant to your hair first, and keep the heat setting as low as possible. For more tips on how to protect your hair extension from heat, read our past blog!

A real human hair extension creates a beautiful, natural look, but they must be taken care of properly! Follow these tips to keep your hair extension looking its best and to ensure it lasts for years.

At Shari’s Hair Boutique, we offer a wide range of hair extensions, full and frontal lace wigs, blonde frontals and closures, and more! We are passionate about offering our customers high-quality, 100% human hair extensions and wigs. Whether you’re looking to cover thinning hair or just need a whole new look, we have quality products at affordable prices.

If you have any questions about what we offer or where the hair comes from, don’t hesitate to contact us! You may find the answers to some of your questions on our Frequently Asked Questions page as well. Shop Shari’s Hair Boutique today!