How to Wash Hair With Extensions (Without Tangling, Slipping, or Regret)

You’ve just had your extensions installed, and your hair looks like something out of a shampoo commercial. It’s fuller, longer, and turning heads everywhere. But now comes the question every extension-wearer has faced:
How do I actually wash this stuff?

Because let’s be honest — extensions aren’t exactly “wash and go.” And if you go in with your usual scrub-and-rinse routine? You might end up with tangles, slippage, or worse — ruined bonds.

Whether you’re rocking tape-ins, sew-ins, keratin bonds, or hand-tied wefts, this guide is your no-nonsense, stylist-approved routine for washing hair with extensions — without messing them up.

First: Know What Kind of Extensions You’re Washing

Different types = different rules. Here’s a quick refresher:

This guide focuses on semi-permanent extensions worn during regular washing (tape, bonded, sew-in, hand-tied).

🧴 Step-by-Step: How to Wash Hair With Extensions

1. Brush Before You Even Think About Water

Detangle everything before you step into the shower.

• Use a loop brush or wide-tooth comb

• Work from ends to roots gently

• Support the extension area with your hand while brushing

Pro Tip: Brush daily, especially before washing. Tangles + water = knots from hell.

2. Wet Gently — No Scrubbing, No Tossing Your Head

Start with lukewarm water and let it run straight down. No flipping your head over the tub or tilting sideways — that’s how you tangle the bonds.

• Use fingertips, not nails

• Avoid swirling or scrubbing the hair in circular motions

• Don’t soak your head like laundry

3. Use Extension-Friendly Shampoo

Translation: sulfate-free, gentle, and moisturizing.

Look for:

• Keratin-safe

• Color-safe (if applicable)

• Low-foam or creamy formulas

Avoid:

• Clarifying shampoos (they strip oils and loosen bonds)

• Protein-heavy products (can make hair stiff if overused)

• Products with silicone near roots (especially for tape-ins)

4. Wash in Sections

This isn’t the time for shampoo slapdashery. Divide your hair into two or more sections and gently cleanse each part.

• Use your fingertips to gently massage the scalp between extensions

• Don’t tug or pull at the roots

• Let the shampoo run down the lengths of the hair without rubbing it in

Be patient — it takes a little more time, but it’ll save you hours of detangling later.

5. Condition Smartly

Apply conditioner from mid-shaft to ends only.

• Never apply conditioner near the bonds, clips, or tapes — it can cause slippage

• Use a moisturizing mask once a week, focusing only on the lengths

• Rinse thoroughly to prevent buildup

Optional: Finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticle and boost shine.

6. Towel Dry Like a Human, Not a Maniac

Stop scrubbing your hair dry. Just stop.

• Use a microfiber towel or old t-shirt

• Gently press and squeeze the water out

• Never twist or rub — it stresses the bonds and causes frizz

7. Dry the Roots — Always

Leaving wet roots is a huge no-no with extensions. It can lead to mildew, itchy scalp, or slipping extensions.

• Blow-dry your roots using medium heat, directing air downward

• Use a nozzle to avoid frizz

• Dry the bonds, rows, or tapes thoroughly — the lengths can air dry if you like

If you’re tight on time, prioritize the root zone. You can diffuse or air-dry the ends later.

Bonus Tips: Washing Hair With Extensions Like a Pro

• Wash your hair 2–3 times a week max — overwashing dries both your real hair and the extensions

• Use dry shampoo between washes — especially at the roots

• Sleep with hair in a braid or ponytail to avoid tangles overnight

• Avoid heat styling daily — extensions are more vulnerable to damage than your natural strands

• Clarify your scalp once every 3–4 weeks (only the roots!) if you feel buildup

FAQs: Washing Extensions Without Losing Your Mind

1. Can I wash extensions upside down in the sink?
Please don’t. That’s a shortcut to tangles, matting, and bond stress. Always wash with your head upright in the shower.

2. What happens if I don’t dry the roots properly?
You risk mildew (yes, it’s a thing), itchy scalp, and your bonds or tapes slipping early. Dry them fully, always.

3. Can I use purple shampoo on extensions?
Yes — but sparingly and only on human hair extensions. And never on the roots or bonds. Test a strand first!

4. How soon after getting extensions can I wash my hair?
Most stylists recommend waiting 48–72 hours after installation before the first wash. This gives bonds or tapes time to fully set.

5. Can I co-wash (conditioner only)?
Not with semi-permanent extensions. You still need a gentle cleanser to remove scalp oils and buildup — otherwise, you’re headed for slip-city.

Final Thoughts: Wash With Love, Not Force

Washing your hair with extensions isn’t complicated — but it is intentional.
Take your time. Use the right products. Skip the scrubbing. And for the love of everything glossy, dry your roots.

Because when you treat your extensions right? They’ll treat you to flawless hair — day after day, wash after wash.

And honestly? You deserve that kind of luxury, every time you lather up.