How to Properly Wash and Care for Hair Extensions
Lær riktig pleie av hair extensions, parykker og toppere. Konkrete tips fra Royal Hair-stylister om vasking, tørking og daglig pleje.
Why Proper Hair Extension Care Is Important
Hair extensions, wigs, and toppers are an investment in your appearance – and like any worthwhile investment, taking good care of them pays off. Whether you wear tape-in, keratin, or clip-in extensions, or use a human hair topper, proper care is essential to keeping your hair looking beautiful for as long as possible.
One thing we often notice is that customers treat their extensions exactly like their natural hair. However, there is an important difference. Extensions and toppers require gentler handling because the hair no longer benefits from the natural oils produced by your scalp.
As professional stylists, we want to be clear: Hair extensions require time, care, and maintenance. If you are prepared to look after them properly, you can enjoy beautiful results for much longer. Here is how to do it.
Washing – Start With the Right Water Temperature
The most important thing is to use lukewarm water. Water that is too hot can contribute to dryness and make the hair more vulnerable to damage.
When washing extensions, be gentle around the attachment points. Avoid scrubbing, rubbing, or pulling the hair. Let the shampoo do the work, and always rinse in the natural direction of hair growth – from the roots down towards the ends.
Choosing the right shampoo is equally important. At Royal Hair, we recommend products suitable for hair extensions. Some hair products can leave behind residue, weigh the hair down, or affect the attachments.
Our hair care products are selected specifically with extensions and the needs of delicate hair in mind.
Conditioning and Deep Hair Care
Hair extensions need regular moisture and conditioning. Without proper maintenance, the hair can become dry, brittle, and more difficult to manage.
Use a suitable conditioner after washing and complement your routine with a hair mask when needed.
One common mistake is applying conditioner or a hair mask directly to the attachment points.
For tape-in extensions, keep conditioners and oil-based products away from the adhesive bonds, as these products may weaken their hold. Similar care should be taken around keratin bonds.
Concentrate conditioning products on the mid-lengths and ends, which are often the areas most prone to dryness.
Using a moisturising hair mask once a week or every other week can help keep the hair soft and shiny. Always follow the recommended application time for the specific product.
Drying and Styling
Avoid rubbing your extensions with a towel after washing. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and allow the towel to absorb the remaining moisture.
Wet hair is more vulnerable to mechanical damage, so take extra care when handling it.
When blow-drying, use low to moderate heat and keep a suitable distance between the hairdryer and the hair. Make sure the attachment points are properly dried, and avoid prolonged direct heat on tape or keratin bonds.
Human hair wigs and toppers can be styled using heated tools if the specific product is suitable for heat styling. Always use heat protection and choose a temperature appropriate for the hair quality and the manufacturer's recommendations.
Daily Care and Handling
Hair extensions also need attention between washes.
Brush the hair gently using a brush designed for extensions. Start at the ends and gradually work your way upwards. Hold the hair near the attachment points to reduce tension.
Never force a brush through tangles or pull on the bonds.
At night, we recommend securing your hair in a loose braid or a low, loose ponytail to reduce friction and tangling. A silk or satin pillowcase can also help.
Clip-in hair extensions should always be removed before going to bed.
Chlorine and salt water can contribute to dryness and may affect hair colour. If you plan to swim, follow the care recommendations for your particular extensions and rinse the hair thoroughly afterwards.
When Should You Contact the Salon?
You do not need to wait until a small issue becomes a major problem before getting in touch.
If you are unsure how to care for your hair, notice that the bonds are loosening, experience unusual tangling, or see changes in the hair's condition, we recommend contacting the salon.
At Royal Hair in Majorstuen, Oslo, and Lillestrøm, our stylists can assess the condition of your hair and advise you on proper care, maintenance, and any necessary adjustments to the attachment method.
All salon visits are by appointment only, so please book in advance.
If you wear a wig or hair topper, we can also demonstrate gentle techniques for washing, brushing, storing, and handling your hairpiece.
Quality Hair Care Products Are an Investment
Products specifically designed for extensions, wigs, and toppers may cost more than ordinary hair care products. However, the right products can help preserve the appearance of the hair and reduce unnecessary wear and damage.
When you have already invested in high-quality hair, it makes sense to choose products that suit the hair type and attachment method.
At Royal Hair, you will find carefully selected hair care products and accessories suitable for our hair products.
Book a Consultation at Royal Hair
Whether you already wear extensions or are considering trying them for the first time, a professional consultation can help you find the right solution.
Our stylists can show you how to wash, brush, style, and maintain your hair according to your hair type, product, and attachment method.
Visit us by appointment at our salons in Majorstuen, Oslo, or Lillestrøm, and we will help you get the most out of your hair.
Would you like personalised advice for your hair? Book a consultation at Royal Hair, or use our Hair Match tool to explore the hair type, length, and colour that best suit you.
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