How to Wash Hair Extensions? Step-by Step Guide

Hair extensions are a secret weapon for instant length, volume, and style. In fact, proper maintenance is a must to keep them looking their best. And, that’s why you should begin by knowing how to wash hair extensions correctly. In this blog, we delve into the guide on washing some popular hair extensions, such as tape in and clip in, with the right techniques and products. Let’s dive in and learn how to care for your extensions the right way!

Can You Wash Hair Extensions?

Yes, hair extensions can be washed, but the frequency varies between different types of extensions. For example, clip-in extensions should be washed after every 3-6 uses or when they start to look dull or feel sticky. Any other extensions can be washed more frequently but ideally, this shouldn’t be more than 2–3 times a week.

Step-by-Step Washing Guide

Here are the steps you should typically follow when washing your human hair extensions after purchase or installation.

1. Things You Need

+ Items: Sulfate-free shampoo, conditioner, detangling spray (optional), wide-tooth comb, and a boar bristle brush or paddle brush for extra smoothing.

+  Detangle: Gently comb through your extensions to remove any knots or tangles.

2. Washing

• Water temperature: Use warm, lukewarm water when taking a shower, as hot water can damage extensions.
• Shampooing: Focus on washing your scalp and roots if you have permanent extensions. For clip-ins and tape-ins, gently wash the wefts with diluted shampoo, avoiding harsh scrubbing to prevent product buildup.
• Conditioning: Apply conditioner primarily to the mid-lengths and ends of your extensions. Avoid applying conditioner near the roots of tape-ins, bonds, or wefts, as it can loosen them.

3. Drying

• Air drying: After washing, gently pat the hair dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can cause tangling and damage to the extensions.
• Blow drying: If necessary, use a low heat setting and apply a heat protectant spray to defend your extensions.

4. Some Expert Tips

• Washing Frequency: Depending on hair type and lifestyle, aim to wash your extensions about 2-3 times a week. Washing less frequently will help extend their lifespan.
• Tangle Prevention: Gently brush extensions as part of your daily routine. Before sleeping, create a loose plait (braid) to reduce tangling.
• When to Replace: Most extensions last around 3-6 months, but this varies depending on type and care.
• Seek a Pro: Consult a hairstylist specializing in extensions for advice tailored to your specific type and the best maintenance routine.

Product Recommendations

Leave-in conditioners offer extra moisture and assist in rehydration, while argan oil provides added nourishment and shine. Heat protectant sprays are vital if you frequently use heat styling tools like a blow dryer or straightener. 

Besides, dry shampoos are also wonderful choices to refresh and revitalize the hair. You can choose those from Kevin Murphy, Oribe, Living Proof, or Goldwell for effective results. 

There is a range of product lines we would like to recommend to you via Best shampoo for extensions

How to Wash Clip in Hair Extensions? Dos and Don’ts

Here are some special notifications about how to wash hair with clip-in extensions:

Dos

• Detangle before washing: Carefully brush your clip-in extensions with a wide-tooth comb or soft bristle brush. Start at the ends and work your way up to the clips to remove any tangles.
• Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: These gentle formulas will clean your extensions without stripping them of moisture or causing damage.
• Wash in a downward motion: Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of shampoo. Submerge the extensions and gently work the suds through the hair in a downward motion, avoiding scrubbing or circular movements.
• Focus conditioner on the ends: Apply conditioner from mid-length to the ends, avoiding the clips. Leave for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
• Air dry or gently pat dry: Lay the extensions flat on a clean towel and allow them to air dry. If necessary, you can gently pat them with a towel to remove excess moisture.
• Store properly: Once completely dry, store your clip-in extensions in a breathable bag or container to preserve their shape and prevent tangling.

Don’ts

• Don’t wash too frequently: Clip-in hair extensions don’t need to be washed as often as your natural hair. Wash them only when they appear visibly dirty or oily.
• Don’t store wet extensions:  Allow your clip-in extensions to dry completely before storing them.
• Don’t apply heat without protection:  If using heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant to your extensions beforehand. Style on low to medium heat settings.
• Don’t neglect the clips: Gently clean around the clips with a cotton swab and alcohol to remove any product buildup.
• Don’t wash clip-ins attached to your hair: Remove clip-in extensions before washing. Washing them while attached can cause tangling and put stress on your natural hair.

How to Wash Tape in Hair Extensions? Dos and Don’ts

Similarly, we have some points to take note about how to wash hair with tape-in extensions:

Dos

• Detangle before washing: Do the same method with clip-in 
• Use sulfate-free and alcohol-free products: These harsh ingredients can weaken the tape bonds and dry out your extensions. Look for shampoos and conditioners designed for hair extensions or color-treated hair.
• Wash gently in a downward motion: Avoid scraping or rubbing the tape bonds, as this can cause them to loosen. Gently massage your scalp and work the shampoo down the length of your hair.
• Condition from mid-length down: Focus conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, avoiding the tape bonds. Leave on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
• Pat dry and use low heat: Gently pat your hair dry with a towel. Blow dry on a low or cool setting, and always direct the airflow downwards, away from the tape bonds.
• Use a leave-in conditioner: Apply a leave-in conditioner from mid-length to the ends to keep your extensions hydrated and manageable.

Don’ts

• Don’t wash too soon after installation: Wait at least 48 hours after your tape-in extensions are applied before washing your hair. This allows the adhesive to fully cure.
• Don’t wash too frequently: Over-washing can dry out your extensions and shorten their lifespan. Aim to wash 2-3 times per week.
• Don’t apply oily products near the bonds: Oils and oil-based products can break down the adhesive and cause the tape to slip.
• Don’t sleep with wet hair: Wet hair can cause the bonds to weaken and tangle. Make sure your hair is completely dry before going to bed.
• Don’t use excessive heat: High heat can damage your extensions and weaken the adhesive. If you must use heat styling tools, always use a heat protectant and stick to low-medium heat settings.

About Synthetic Hair Extensions

So, how about synthetic extensions, do you wonder, “Can you wash synthetic hair extensions?”, or “How to wash synthetic hair extensions?” 

In fact, you can totally wash them gently with wig shampoo and do the same steps as I mentioned above. But you should be extremely careful and just use air drying with a soft towel, as synthetic extensions are more prone to damage than human hair extensions.

Conclusion

That’s all we want to share with you about how to wash hair extensions to keep them looking gorgeous and maintain a flawless integration with your own hair. However, the quality of the hair extensions also affects how long they last. With Luxshine Hair – the best wholesale vendor in Vietnam, you can be guaranteed both quality and durability. 

We only offer premium quality, tangle-free hair that is 100% human hair, so don’t forget to visit our website or contact us via WhatsApp  (+84) 862 552 088 if you need more information. We are always available to support you 24/7!