How To Save Dry Hair Extensions (2024)

It's an investment to purchase a set of hair extensions, as they can be quite expensive at times.When they start drying, matting, tangling, and frizzing, it gets really frustrating because we compare them to how we got them at first, and ask ourselves if it's even worth it to save. But don't throw out your extensions just yet, because we can still revive them.

It is inevitable for hair extensions to dry out regardless of their brand or quality, because hair extensions do not receive the natural oils our natural hair does. Our scalp produces sebum that moisturizes our natural hair, and keeps them soft and healthy. Since hair extensions are not attached to the scalp, they do not receive this natural oil, and that’s why they start to feel dry over time.

Everyone wants their hair extensions to last longer, stay healthy, soft, and beautiful. So if you're wondering what you should do now to save your hair extensions, don't you worry! There are several ways to save your hair extensions and bring them back to life.

In this article, we'll be discussing how you can save your hair extensions from drying out, bringing them back to life, and adding longevity to a healthy and moisturized extensions.

What Causes Dry Hair Extensions?

Firstly, we have to understand what causes the dryness of your hair extensions. Once you understand this, you’ll have an idea of what you should do and what you should avoid to keep your hair extensions healthy and moisturized for a long time.

Poor Hair Extension Quality

The quality of your hair extensions is a big factor in their appearance and longevity. If you're using synthetic or overly processed extensions, they are weak and prone to damage. Since they are over processed, they dry and break faster compared to remy human hair extensions.

Exposure To The Sun

Overexposure to the sun can be damaging to your hair extensions. You already know that your extensions don't moisturize themselves. Without the proper hair extension maintenance, your hair extensions will dry out and break faster from the sun's heat.

Chlorine in Pools

Our hair extensions can become dry and lose color when exposed to chlorine in swimming pools. Regular oil treatments are important for maintaining healthy hair if you frequently swim. However, it is advised that you always take out your hair extensions before diving into the pool.

Salt Water in Beaches

The ocean is made up of salt water, and salt causes the hair the dry out quickly and get damaged. Never ever swim in salt water with your hair extensions. Even the sand in beaches can get on your extensions that could potentially damage them, so make sure to regularly maintain your hair extensions.

Coloring Hair Extensions

Remember that only real human hair extensions are allowed to be dyed. Synthetic hair extensions shouldn't be colored because it's already chemically processed and the color won't stick to it. However, coloring your extensions frequently will make them dry out much like natural hair does.

The strong chemicals used in hair color, such ammonia, can harm your hair if used frequently. You need to be careful when handling your extensions.

Overuse of Heat Styling Tools

Your hair may dry out rapidly if you use blow dryers, flatirons, curling irons, hot combs, etc. Make careful to use them moderately because too much heat may rapidly cause your hair to dry out and become brittle.

Harsh Products

The condition of your hair is also impacted by the products you use, such as oils, gels, and hairspray. The more product you use, the more frequently you'll need to wash your hair, which will eventually result in knots or tangled extensions. These products contain harsh chemicals for the hair. Similar to these, sulfate-containing shampoos and conditioners may harm and dry out the hair.

Overwashing Hair Extensions

Hairstylists recommended that you only wash your hair extensions no more than once a week. Any more than that could dry out the hair by removing the natural oils of the extensions. When washing, avoid harsh products, and use sulfate-free products.

How To Save Dry Hair Extensions

Hair extensions do not last forever. You can take care of them as much as you can, but they will eventually wear off or deteriorate. Eventually they will dry out, becoming frizzy, and tangled.

But don't you worry! There are ways to save and revive your hair extensions even if they are declining. We'll teach you the step-by-step method to keep your hair extensions lasting longer. Here are the things you’ll need to save your hair extensions:

  • Sulfate-free Shampoo
  • Sulfate-free Conditioner
  • Leave in conditioner
  • Hair Extensions Loop Brush
  • Argan Oil
  • Towel
  • Heat protectant Spray

Step 1

Firstly, your hair extensions should be as tangle-free as possible so you should brush through them to remove any tangles or knots. It's best to start brushing your extensions from midshaft to the ends so it's easier to detangle. For this, we advise using a hair extension loop brush from PerfectLocks.

How To Save Dry Hair Extensions (2024)

FAQs

How To Save Dry Hair Extensions? ›

Use Nourishing Hair Oils

How do you keep hair extensions moisturized? ›

"Always use products that are hydrating and gentle on the hair." Pay attention to what is in the shampoo and conditioner you are using. "Choose products that are sulfate-free, have mild detergents, and provide lots of moisture and hydration." With hair extensions, you want to ensure you are taking care of your scalp.

Why do my extensions look so dry? ›

Human hair extensions can go dry and frizzy because they are not receiving any sebum (oil) from your scalp. Your scalp produces sebum, which is full of good stuff and is what keeps your hair feeling soft.

Can I put conditioner on dry hair extensions? ›

Hair extensions do not receive nutrients from your natural scalp oils, so it is essential to keep them well moisturised by using a good quality moisturising conditioner. You may also apply treatments to the extensions, but make sure you avoid contact with the root.

Can you put hair oil on dry extensions? ›

Some would disagree though, with the idea of applying oil on extensions since it may cause the bonds to easily break resulting to slippage. The truth is hair oils are absolutely beneficial to your hair as well as to your extensions when applied at the midshaft all the way to the tips.

Can you save dry hair extensions? ›

The best way to revive dry hair extensions is by using an all-natural oil treatment. All remy hair extensions really want is to be attached to the scalp again *sad face*. The best way we can mimic sebum secretion is by applying natural oils to the hair.

Is leave-in conditioner good for hair extensions? ›

You'll use leave-in conditioner more when you have natural hair extensions. This will keep the additional hair of your extensions in the best condition. Always complete your hair washing and conditioning with a leave-in.

What is the best oil for hair extensions? ›

Jojoba oil's similarity to the scalp's natural sebum makes it an ideal choice for extension care, particularly for maintaining the hydration balance without heavy buildup. Scalp-Like Hydration: Jojoba oil's chemical composition closely resembles that of the natural oils produced by the scalp, known as sebum.

What can I put on my hair extensions to make them soft? ›

Extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, or even argan oil are excellent choices. Find the best oils in the cooking aisle of the supermarket – oils made just for hair are often much more expensive for the same thing. Kitchen oils are also usually much purer and won't have any fragrances or colors.

How often should I oil my extensions? ›

I always recommend to my cleints to oil their hair at night, incase they ever apply too much. This way it gives the hair + your pillow time to soak it in and not look too oily! But to prevent that, 1-3 pumps usually is enough.

What shampoo not to use on hair extensions? ›

Things to Look Out for When Buying Shampoo and Conditioner for Hair Extensions
  • Avoid Products That Contain Sulfates. ...
  • Steer Clear of Dry Shampoo. ...
  • Avoid Shampoo with Synthetic Oils and Moisturising Ingredients. ...
  • Avoid 'all in one' Shampoo & Conditioners. ...
  • Colour-Safe Formulas.
Apr 3, 2024

Why are my hair extensions so dry and tangled? ›

Hair extensions matting through the lengths happens due to hair extensions losing their natural oils or becoming dry and frizzy, making them troublesome to manage. Additionally, damage due to complying with an incorrect aftercare routine or products is also ranked as one of its top causes.

How do you keep extensions moisturized? ›

Use Oil Regularly

Oil for your hair extensions is an important part of keeping them hydrated and preventing all the negative consequences of dry extensions. How much oil you use depends on the amount of hair and hair extensions you have, but start with less and you can always increase the amount you use.

What not to use on extensions? ›

Purchasing sulfate and alcohol-free products is a necessity as they are imperative to maintain the health of your extensions. These ingredients strip the hair of its natural oils which, in turn, makes the hair drier and more prone to tangling or matting. Prolonged use of these ingredients will affect their integrity.

How to make extensions soft and shiny? ›

Ways to Keep Your Hair Extensions Soft and Healthy for Longer:
  1. Use a low heat setting and always use heat protection spray!
  2. Use the correct brush and brushing technique on your hair extensions.
  3. Avoid blowdrying your hair extensions.
  4. Don't leave your extensions in direct sunlight.
May 4, 2018

How to keep your hair healthy while wearing extensions? ›

Essential Care While Using Extensions

Regular brushing with a boar bristle brush helps to evenly distribute natural oils from your scalp to the lengths of your hair, keeping it moisturized and preventing tangles. Avoid overwashing your hair, as this can strip away natural oils and leave your extensions dry and brittle.

References

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