Buying hair extensions can be what some people consider an investment -especially if it's virgin or raw hair, (the highest quality and the most costly hair on the market). You want to make sure you are following the proper caring instructions so that your extensions will last and look its best so that you can get your money's worth.
To understand the importance of taking care of your extensions, you first have to understand where the hair comes from and how its made. For example, our extensions here at In Style Boutique & Hair, are sourced from different parts of the world such as India, Burma, Vietnam and Cambodia, just to name a few. It comes from single donors that donate their locks for money, religious sacrifices and many other reasons. After it is cut from the donor's head, it is then sent to the factory to begin its processing. The hair is sorted, washed and then machine wefted. Finally it is ready to be packaged for the consumer. Because that hair is no longer attached to the donor's head, it is not getting as many nutrients as it would if it was still attached to the scalp. It is sort of similar to how if you cut a tree from its roots, the tree will become unhealthy and eventually die because its source of nutrients have been cut off. So it's basically the same idea with hair extensions. So for that reason, it is up to you to take good care of the hair to extend its longevity. Our extensions can last up to three years, with proper care. I will be discussing some helpful tips that you should know.
So let's jump right into it!
Styling:
- When installing the hair, do not cut the weft unless it is absolutely necessary. Cutting the wefts will cause some shedding. It is better to use the "fold method". Your hair stylist should know what this means.
- Do not use any heavy oils, gels, or mousse on the hair. It will cause the hair to weigh down and look stiff. It won't feel that great when you run your fingers through it either. Argan Oil is highly recommended for daily use because it is so lightweight and seals in shine.
Product Suggestion: OGX- Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco. It smells awesome too!
- Try to not apply too much heat to the hair. When you do, always use a heat protectant product. Whether you are using a blow dryer, flat iron, or curling wand, the high temperatures of those tools can cause your hair to fry. The heat protectant protects it from those damages.
Product Suggestion: CHI- 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray.
I like this product because it is also weightless and doesn't build up.
For curlier hair, even though it doesn't need much styling because it already comes in a curly pattern, it still does require some maintenance. You can simply get a spray bottle of water and wet the hair and add some Argan Oil. This is a great way to revive your curls without using any heating tools. You can also use flexi-rods. Flexi rods are bendable strips that curl onto the hair to create more defined and bouncy curls. I personally use these when I'm too lazy to use my curling wand. You can pick these up at your local beauty supply store or Amazon.com. They have different sizes depending on the way you want your curls to look.
Washing
- Pre-wash your hair (rinse through with warm water and conditioner) before installing. You can then air dry it by laying them on a towel on a table overnight.
- Use sulfate and paraben free shampoo when washing. The chemicals that are used in shampoos containing sulfate, paraben or alcohol, strips the hair of its moisture. So stay far away from those!
- To detangle, use a detangling conditioner and gently comb through the hair with a wide tooth comb starting from the ends and work your way up. No tugging!
- Be sure to deep condition your hair as well. Conditioning the hair is the best thing you can do especially if you are going to bleach or color the hair.
Product Suggestion: Avanti- Silicon Mix Intensive Hair Treatment
Swimming
Although you can swim with your extensions, be sure to thoroughly wash your hair out to get rid of any chlorine, sand, or any other substances that might have gotten trapped in the hair. Follow the rest of the washing and styling routine as mentioned above.
Night Time
Yes, even in the night time while your sleeping your hair extensions need to be taken care of. LOL! Do wrap, braid, twist, or flexi-rod your hair before going to bed to prevent tangling. Sleeping in a satin bonnet or silk scarf is great too! I am actually wearing a satin bonnet as I am writing this LOL!
Color & Bleach
When you color or bleach your extensions, it is imperative that you treat your hair with extra TLC. Bleaching tends to dry out the hair and make it brittle because of the harsh chemicals it contains. So make sure you use deep conditioner every two weeks and moisturize daily.
Closures and Frontals
What is a lace closure? A lace closure is an additional hair piece in which single hairs are hand tied to the lace making it extremely delicate. The measurement is usually 4 x 4. This piece is placed on top of the braids to close off the sew-in. This is perfect for those who do not want to have any of their natural hair left out.
What is a lace frontal? A lace frontal is very similar to the characteristics and functions of the closure. However, the measurement is 13 x 4 (ear to ear). Frontals have much more parting space than the closure, but also requires a lot more styling and maintenance.
Because these hair pieces are so delicate, be very gentle when combing so that the hairs won't come out causing balding in the lace. Also, when bleaching the knots of the closure (optional) do not use anything higher than 40 developer.
And finally,
TAKE CARE OF YOUR HAIR EXTENSIONS, LIKE ITS YOU'RE OWN!
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