The importance of the correct Hair Extension Aftercare Products
Using the correct shampoo and conditioner that your hair extension supplier recommends is essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of hair extensions for several key reasons:
1. Protects the Extensions
Hair extensions have different needs than natural hair. Harsh shampoos or conditioners, especially those containing parabens, or alcohols, can dry out and/or damage the extensions. These ingredients strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to tangling, frizz, or breakage.
2. Maintains Moisture Balance
Extensions require proper hydration to remain soft, shiny, and manageable. A moisturising shampoo and conditioner designed for extensions will help lock in moisture without weighing the hair down or causing it to look greasy. This helps keep the hair extensions looking natural and prevents them from becoming brittle.
3. Prevents Build-Up
Hair extensions tend to accumulate build-up from styling products, oils, and environmental factors. A good shampoo formulated for extensions helps cleanse the hair without causing excess dryness or residue that could cause tangling or clumping.
4. Protects the Bond Area
For those with bonded, tape-in, or mini link extensions, the product you use near the bonds is critical. Strong chemicals, oils, or conditioners can break down the adhesive or weaken the bonds, leading to premature shedding or slippage of the extensions. Specialised shampoos and conditioners designed for extensions are free of ingredients that could compromise the bond.
5. Maintains Natural Shine and Softness
Using products designed for hair extensions helps maintain the texture and luster of the hair. Shampoos and conditioners that are too harsh or too heavy can strip the shine and smoothness, making extensions look dull or feel rough.
6. Protects from Color Fading
Because all hair extensions have been pre coloured or dyed, the right shampoo and conditioner will help protect the colour from fading. Extension-friendly shampoos contain colour-safe formulas that preserve the vibrancy of both natural and extension hair colours.
7. Ensures Tangle-Free Hair
Conditioning the extensions properly helps prevent tangling and matting. Hair extensions are more prone to tangling than natural hair, so a conditioner designed for extensions will make the hair smoother and easier to detangle, reducing the risk of breakage.
8. Promotes Healthy Growth (For Natural Hair)
When hair extensions are installed for a long period, they put added stress on natural hair. Using products that nourish and promote the health of your natural hair while it’s wearing extensions is important to avoid damage to your own hair underneath.
9. Why do we NOT recommend Sulphate free products?
Using sulfate-free shampoo for hair extensions can be problematic because these shampoos often lack the cleaning power needed to effectively remove build-up from styling products, oils, and environmental pollutants. We find that sulfate-free shampoos do not cleanse hair extensions thoroughly. Sulfate-free formulas often leave residue behind, leading to a greasy or weighed-down appearance, which can cause the extensions to look dull and feel heavy. Additionally, some sulfate-free shampoos contain moisturising agents that can build up on extensions over time, reducing their volume and natural texture. To maintain the longevity and appearance of hair extensions, it’s essential to use a gentle, extension-friendly shampoo that ensures thorough cleaning without causing excess residue or damage.
10. In summary
Foxy’s line of specialised Hair Care is designed for our brand, everything works hand in hand. Each hair extension company formulate their lines differently and what works for one brand does not necessarily work for another. The only safe way to ensure that you are caring for your Hair Extensions in the correct manner is by following the correct care instructions, these instructions form part of the manufacturers guidelines and are an essential part of ensuring your hair extensions remain silky and soft throughout the full lifespan.
Find out more about our hair extensions tools including flat edge hair extensions pliers here.