Hair extensions are a wonderful invention, but it doesn't mean that they're without flaws. However, the damage they might cause is easily reversible with appropriate treatment. Check how to repair your hair and how to prevent damage.

Hair extensions are a great tool to change your looks from day to night, but you may also use them long-term. If you struggle with the lack of volume or simply made a wrong decision at the hairdresser's that you cannot reverse, hair extensions can solve your problem! Relatively easy to apply (however, depending on the method), natural-looking, and much more affordable than wigs, hair extensions are conquering the amateurs of instant metamorphoses. 

Nevertheless, wearing long-term hair extensions or using the short-term variants often may result in damage - it's a part of the game. Implementing these habits to your hair care routine will help to minimise it!

#1 Oil your hair regularly

Oiling has become a number one DIY treatment - and there is a reason for that. By applying the oil on your hair regularly, you can protect the hair from damage or even reverse it. The oil creates a protective layer on the cuticle, preventing moisture from escaping. That's essential for the high porosity hair that gets dry and breaks easily. For low-porosity hair, you can use saturated oils that penetrate the cuticle.

#2 Remove the sulfates from your haircare routine

Hair cosmetics without sulfates (SLS and SLES) are becoming increasingly common but are still a minority. Sulfates are present mainly in shampoos due to their purifying and foaming properties. That's their advantage, but it comes at a price. Sulfates can have a damaging effect on your hair, making it lose moisture. If you want it to handle your tape in extensions or clip in extensions well, try to avoid these ingredients in your routine.

#3 Apply cosmetics on your scalp

To regenerate your hair at the core, it's worth trying to stimulate its follicles. There are a lot of oils and serums made specifically for this purpose. They may contain lavender oil, rosemary, mustard seeds, and other natural ingredients that stimulate hair growth.  There are many oils to stimulate hair growth which we share in our post how to thicken thin hair naturally.

#4 Avoid fusion methods

Fusion extension methods bring spectacular effects since the binding becomes practically invisible. However, they damage the hair more than other methods. Tape in method will provide you with beautiful results without side effects. Even blonde tape in hair extensions can look natural since the bondings are very discreet.

#5 Be gentle when brushing

When you have hair extensions, it's important to be extra gentle when brushing your hair. Use a soft-bristled brush or a detangling brush and start from the bottom, slowly working your way up to avoid pulling and tugging on your hair. This will help prevent damage to both your natural hair and the extensions.

#6 Don't wear extensions for too long

Even though hair extensions are designed to be worn for a long time, it's important to give your hair and scalp a break every now and then. Wearing extensions for too long can put a strain on your hair follicles, leading to hair loss or damage. Give your hair a break for a few weeks before putting extensions back in.

#7 Use heat protectant

If you like to style your hair with hot tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray or serum. Heat can damage your hair and extensions, leading to breakage and split ends. A heat protectant will create a barrier between the heat and your hair, minimizing the damage.

#8 Get regular trims

Regular trims are important for maintaining healthy hair, especially when you're wearing extensions. Trimming the ends of your hair every 6-8 weeks will prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft and causing further damage. It will also help your extensions blend more seamlessly with your natural hair.

#9 Choose high-quality extensions

Investing in high-quality hair extensions can make a big difference in how they look and how they affect your hair. Cheap, low-quality extensions can be made from synthetic fibers that don't blend well with natural hair and can cause more damage. Look for extensions made from human hair or high-quality materials and choose a reputable brand.  Find hair extensions that won't ruin your hair.

#10 Consult with a professional

If you're unsure about how to care for your hair extensions or how to repair damage, it's always best to consult with a professional. A hairstylist who specializes in extensions can give you advice on the best care routine and recommend products that will work for your hair type. They can also remove and reapply extensions safely, preventing further damage.

Final word

In conclusion, hair extensions can be a great way to switch up your hairstyle, turn short hair styles into long, and boost your confidence. However, it's important to take care of your natural hair and the extensions to prevent damage and ensure they last as long as possible. Hair extensions aren't advised for those who like a minimalist hair routine as they need taking care of.  By following the tips in this article, you can maintain healthy hair and enjoy the benefits of hair extensions without causing harm. Remember, healthy hair is beautiful hair!

 

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