How Do You Take Care of Hair Extensions? (Without Turning Them Into Straw)

So you’ve finally got the length, volume, and bounce you’ve always wanted. Hair extensions = instant confidence boost. But here’s the kicker: they don’t stay beautiful on their own.

Extensions — whether clip-ins, tape-ins, sew-ins, or bonded — need care. Real care. Because once they lose that silky shine and start tangling like a bird’s nest, it’s hard to get them back.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I supposed to wash these? Can I sleep in them? Why do they feel like hay all of a sudden?” — you’re not alone.

Let’s break it all down, with practical tips, no fluff, and advice that actually works. Whether you're a seasoned salon pro or brand new to hair extensions, this guide is your go-to for keeping them looking salon-fresh.

First, Know Your Extensions

Different types of hair extensions require different levels of TLC. If you’re treating clip-ins the same as tape-ins? We’ve got a problem.

Here’s a quick rundown:

How to Take Care of Hair Extensions: A Real-World Routine

Let’s break this down into five key categories: washing, brushing, sleeping, styling, and storing.

1. Washing Your Extensions

Whether permanent or temporary, washing extensions the wrong way can shorten their lifespan drastically.

For Clip-Ins & Halos:

• Wash only every 15–20 wears

• Use sulfate-free shampoo in cool to lukewarm water

• Condition from mid-shaft to ends

• Air-dry flat — never wring or twist

For Tape-Ins, Wefts, and Keratin Bonds:

• Wash 2–3 times a week

• Gently massage shampoo at the scalp only — avoid scrubbing

• Use conditioner only on mid-lengths to ends

• Rinse thoroughly — buildup = tangles

• Dry completely at the roots to avoid mildew (especially under braids)

Never wash bonded or taped extensions upside down — it can cause tangling and stress the attachment points.

2. Brushing Extensions (Yes, There’s a Right Way)

Bad brushing = breakage, shedding, and short lifespan.

What You Need:

• A wide-tooth comb

• A loop brush or soft bristle extension brush

• Patience (seriously)

How to Brush:

• Always brush from the ends up

• Hold the top of the extension to avoid pulling at the bonds

• Brush before bed, before washing, and after styling

• For wet hair? Only use a wide-tooth comb, gentlyPro tip: Keep a mini brush in your bag if you’re wearing them daily. Extensions tangle faster than your natural hair, especially in wind or heat.

3. Sleeping with Extensions (Do or Don’t?)

Clip-Ins / Halos:

Remove them before bed. Sleeping in clip-ins can cause tangling, breakage, and unnecessary stress on your roots.

Tape-Ins / Sew-Ins / Bonds:

Braid your hair or put it in a loose ponytail or silk bonnet before bed. This reduces friction, prevents matting, and protects the attachment.

Switch to a silk pillowcase to reduce tugging and dryness while you sleep.

4. Styling Do’s and Don’ts

Let’s keep it real — heat tools aren’t the enemy. But they can ruin extensions fast if used carelessly.

DO:

• Use a heat protectant spray every single time

• Style at low to medium heat

• Use human hair extensions if you love your curling wand

• Try no-heat styles like braids or overnight rollers

DON’T:

• Crank up to 450°F (no hair needs that)

• Apply heat to tape tabs, keratin bonds, or sewn tracks

• Overdo it — extensions dry out faster than your own hair

If your extensions start looking dry, use a lightweight serum or leave-in conditioner — but never near the bonds.

5. Storage: Don’t Toss Them in a Drawer

If you wear clip-ins or halos, how you store them matters. It protects the shape, prevents tangling, and helps them last longer.

Best Practices:

• Always brush before storing

• Store in a silk or satin pouch

• Or lay flat in a clean box with tissue paper

• Keep them away from heat and sunlight

Pro tip: Use a hair extension hanger (yes, it’s a thing) for storing and styling. Makes blow-drying and curling easier, too.

Extension Care FAQs (Real Questions from Real People)

1. How long do hair extensions last with proper care?
Human hair extensions can last 6–12 months or more with proper care. Clip-ins often last longer since they’re worn less often. Synthetic extensions have a shorter life — around 1–3 months.

2. Can I go swimming with extensions?
Technically yes, but proceed with caution. Chlorine, saltwater, and sunscreen can ruin extensions. If you swim, tie your hair up, use a swim cap, and wash immediately after.

3. Why do my extensions tangle so much?
Could be product buildup, poor brushing habits, or sleeping with them loose. Also, low-quality hair tangles easier. Regular brushing and deep conditioning help.

4. Can I color my extensions?
Only if they’re 100% human hair — and preferably virgin or Remy. Always do a strand test. Better yet? Take them to a colorist who knows extensions.

5. My extensions feel dry. What should I do?
Use a deep conditioning mask once a week (avoid the roots). Apply argan or coconut oil to the ends only. And ease up on the heat tools for a bit.

Final Thoughts: Hair That Lasts Starts with How You Treat It

Hair extensions aren’t just an accessory — they’re an investment. And like anything worth investing in, they require a little maintenance. But it doesn’t have to feel like a chore.

Brush gently. Wash smart. Store with care. Treat your extensions like the high-maintenance best friend they are — and they’ll keep showing up for you every day, full of shine, volume, and that just-left-the-salon confidence.

And remember: hair should be fun. Taking care of it? Just part of the deal.