Hair extensions are a great way to add length, volume, or a splash of color without waiting for your natural hair to grow. Whether you’ve chosen tape-ins, sew-ins, or clip-ins, proper maintenance is key to keeping your extensions looking fresh and lasting longer. At Shear Sugar Salon, we install and care for extensions regularly, so we’ve gathered our top tips to help you protect your investment.
How to Care for Hair Extensions at Home
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Brush with Care
Always use a soft bristle brush or a loop brush designed for extensions. Start brushing from the ends and work your way up. Hold your hair at the roots to avoid putting stress on the bonds or wefts.
- Brush at least twice a day to prevent tangling.
- Be gentle, especially around the attachment points.
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Wash Extensions the Right Way
Wash your hair no more than 2–3 times a week to avoid drying out the extensions. When you do wash, be gentle and avoid scrubbing near the roots.
- Use lukewarm water and massage shampoo gently into your scalp.
- Rinse thoroughly and apply conditioner from mid-length to ends—never on the bonds.
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Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair
Make sure your hair is completely dry before going to bed. Sleeping with wet hair can cause matting and breakage.
- Loosely braid your hair or tie it in a low ponytail before sleeping.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz.
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Minimize Heat Damage
Extensions don’t repair themselves the way natural hair can, so be extra cautious with heat styling tools.
- Always use a heat protectant spray before using flat irons or curling wands.
- Stick to low to medium heat settings.
Best Products to Use with Hair Extensions
Using the right products is just as important as the way you care for your hair extensions. Here are a few we recommend at Shear Sugar Salon:
✔ Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Look for gentle formulas that won’t strip moisture or damage the adhesive or bonds. Sulfate-free products help maintain softness and extend the life of your extensions.
✔ Leave-In Conditioner
A lightweight leave-in conditioner helps with detangling and adds moisture without weighing down the hair. Spray on the mid-lengths to ends—avoid the roots.
✔ Heat Protectant Spray
This is a must if you’re using hot tools. It protects both your natural hair and the extensions from heat damage.
✔ Dry Shampoo
To keep your roots fresh between washes, use a gentle dry shampoo. Just be careful not to apply it too close to the bonds.
Need help finding the right products? Ask your stylist during your next visit—we only recommend salon-quality brands that are safe for extensions.
Let Shear Sugar Salon Help You Keep Your Hair Gorgeous
Taking good care of your extensions ensures they look natural, feel comfortable, and last longer. If you have questions about upkeep or want a refresh, our team at Shear Sugar Salon is always here to help.
Book your appointment today at shearsugarsalon.com and let us help you keep your extensions—and your natural hair—looking amazing every day.
