All About Extensions

Brushing

Only use a recommended brush.
- Use a boar bristle brush for the roots of your extensions.
- Use a paddle brush from mid-shaft to ends, avoiding the roots.
Gently separate the bonds with your fingers to prevent matting and knotting.
Section off hair in 4 sections. Start by brushing the ends to reduce tangles and work your way up to the roots, always holding the hair firmly to minimize tension where your extensions are applied.

Styling

As a general rule, for any type of extensions, avoid applying products and and keep hot-styling tools away from where your extensions are applied.
Take extra care with keratin bonds. Always keep heat tools away from the bonds!
- Using curling irons or straighteners too close can melt the bonds, causing extensions to slip out or shed.
- Always avoid applying any products directly to your roots to prevent the bonds from slipping or shedding.
- Avoid applying dry shampoo all over your extensions; focus on the roots only, as it can dry out the hair.

Washing

Wait 2-3 days before washing your hair after the extensions are applied.
Always lean your head back, not forward, to wash your hair.
Always blow-dry the bonds right after washing to prevent slippage or shedding.
Use shampoos recommended by your stylist, avoiding those with harsh ingredients.
If you have oily hair or an itchy scalp, shampoo your hair twice to ensure it's thoroughly clean, especially at the nape.
When using conditioner, apply it only to the ends of your hair, never touching the area where your extensions are applied, as this can lead to slippage or shedding.

Sleeping

Wear a low bun, loose ponytail, or a braid to prevent tangling.
Consider sleeping on a silk pillowcase or wear a silk bonnet to protect your hair while you sleep.

Swimming

If swimming, put your hair in a tight braid and make sure to wet your hair before going in the pool or ocean.
Avoid chlorine and ocean water, and use mineral sunscreen to prevent extensions from changing color.
When showering, add conditioner to remove the braid, then rinse and shampoo as normal a few times, followed by using a hair mask.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will hair extensions damage my hair?

Properly placed and removed hair extensions should not damage your hair. I can ensure they are applied and removed correctly, but it is up to you to take care of them in between appointments. Proper maintenance and care are essential to avoid any potential damage.

How long do hair extensions last?

It depends on the type. Keratin extensions typically last between 3 to 6 months and require no maintenance. On the other hand, beaded, wefted, flat tip, and tape extensions can last from 8 months to a year with regular maintenance.

Can I reuse the hair from my extensions?

Hair from some extension methods is reusable. However, please inquire specifically about keratin extensions.

Can I swim with my extensions?

Regular exposure to chlorine and ocean water should be avoided. If you swim, wet your hair before going into the water and keep it in a tight braid. When showering, use conditioner to loosen and unravel the braid, then follow with a leave-in conditioner.

Can I wear my hair in a wet ponytail?

Please dry the extension bonds thoroughly before styling your hair into a ponytail, as moisture can cause the bonds to slip and shed. It's fine to wear a ponytail while exercising, but be sure to shampoo your hair afterward or at least dry the area where the extensions are applied.

What products can I use on my extensions?

You can use your regular styling products on your hair or mid-shaft to the ends of the hair, but avoid applying anything directly to where the extensions are applied.

How often can I wash my hair with extensions?

I recommend washing your hair 1-2 times a week, or 3 times a week if your hair is oily. Just remember to shampoo twice at the nape and avoid applying conditioner on the roots and where the extensions are applied. Dry shampoo is fine for styling, but avoid applying it directly to your scalp and especially to the extensions, as it can cause tangling.

Will heat damage my extensions while traveling in hot climates?

Wearing a hat is recommended when in extreme heat, it protects your face and your hair! While many clients have not experienced issues while traveling to hot climates, it's best to avoid direct sunlight to protect your extensions from changing colour.

Can I use my flat iron, curling iron, or hot rollers on my extensions?

Yes, you can use heat styling tools, but never where the extensions are applied, especially with keratin bonds. Heat is used to apply these extensions, so it can also cause them to loosen or release. Be especially careful at the back of your head where visibility is limited. It's generally safer to avoid using heat near any type of extension but be particularly mindful with keratin bonds.

Can I remove my hair extensions myself?

No, it's crucial to have them professionally removed. Removing extensions yourself can lead to hair damage. We use specific tools and a special gel remover. Always go to the stylist who placed them in, or if that’s not possible, go to someone licensed to remove extensions.

Can I use a deep conditioning mask?

Yes! Using a deep conditioning mask is highly recommended. However, apply it only to mid-shaft to the ends of your hair, avoiding where the extensions are applied. This will help maintain the health and appearance of your extensions while keeping your own hair nourished.

My hair feels like it's pulling. What should I do?

If it's your first time wearing extensions, you may be sensitive to them. This sensation is normal and can take 7-14 days to subside, depending on your scalp's sensitivity. If you continue to feel uncomfortable, please come in for a check-up.

My hair feels itchy. What should I do?

Please shampoo your hair 2-3 times to ensure it is thoroughly clean. The frequency of washing your hair can affect this, so adjust accordingly

What happens if I lose some extensions?

You can lose up to four extensions per month, depending on how well your hair holds onto them and how you care for your hair. It’s definitely better if the extension slips out with hardly any hair attached to the bond. But if it rips out, meaning your hair is still attached to the bond, that’s a sign you’re being too rough with your hair. This is a warning to handle your hair more gently and make an appointment to get it checked out. Please save all extensions that have slipped or ripped out, as most of the time they can be put back in. There will be a fee if you’d like to have them reattached.

Why do I see what looks like white dots or residue in my extensions? Is this normal?

Hair naturally sheds daily. When you wear extensions, the shed hair can get trapped in the bond, and you’ll see white root tips caught in your extensions. This is totally normal. People with darker hair notice it more than those with lighter hair. If it bothers you, you can color your roots to cover it up, but there’s no need to worry—it’s just part of wearing extensions and isn’t damaging your hair.

Is it okay to do hot yoga, use saunas, or go to steam rooms with extensions?

Occasionally, yes, but try not to make it a regular habit. The heat and humidity can cause your extensions to slip or shed. If you do indulge, be sure to dry the area where the extensions are applied right after to prevent any slippage.