Natural hair extensions blend seamlessly with your own hair for gorgeous length and volume. As real human hair, they require proper care to stay smooth and shiny for as long as possible. This article will provide tips on keeping natural hair extensions beautiful for months while avoiding tangling and matting.
Gently Detangle Natural Hair Extensions to Avoid Damage
Natural hair extensions are prone to drying out, tangling and matting. Avoid ripping through knots as this can tear cuticles leading to frizz. Instead, spray leave-in conditioner or detangler spray to lubricate the strands. Then gently brush out tangles with a wide-tooth comb starting at the ends. Slowly work up to the top adding conditioner as needed. For curly natural hair extensions, use only fingers for separation.
Use the Right Detangling Tools
Quality natural hair extension combs have extra wide teeth and smooth rounded tips. Brush gently and gradually work up from ends to roots. For seriously tangled sections, hold hair above the snarl to minimize ripping as you separate strands. Avoid narrow toothed combs completely to reduce excess breakage risk.
Wash Natural Hair Extensions Properly to Maintain Quality
Clean natural hair extensions 1-2 times per month maximum using sulfate-free shampoo and a nourishing conditioner. Avoid over washing as this strips hair lipids leading to dryness. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and work in leave-in treatments. Air dry only instead of damaging blow drying heat.
Choose Moisture-Locking Shampoos and Conditioners
As natural proteins wash out over time, the hair cuticles lift causing tangling. Humectants like glycerin and nourishing oils seal moisture in strands keeping them smooth longer. Deep conditioning overnight once a month revives softness and shine while preventing drying damage.
Protect and Style Natural Hair Extensions to Last Longer
Heavily heat styling and teasing stresses natural hair follicle attachments shortening lifespan. When hot tools are needed keep temperatures medium to low. Always heat protect with a spray first and don’t overdo curling iron passes per section. Avoid tugging tightly with tight bands. Opt for loose braids, gentle waves or temporary clip-in styles instead of constant tension.
Learn Low Manipulation Styling Techniques
Practice natural drying, air drying, loose braids and soft scrunching with mousse for texture. This avoids constantly brushing and exposing the inner cortex to damage from ripping, burning and drying out. Embrace natural texture and waves for less upkeep over time.
Take Care Applying Extensions to Avoid Root Stress Damage
Consistent careful application and removal protects follicles and thread knots from excess strain. Avoid bonding when possible choosing less permanent clip-in or tape-in methods. Use professional grade adhesives in small amounts only at the weft or vent placement. Don’t overapply believing “more is better” glue wise. This prevents buildup residue and allows safer removal later.
See a Licensed Stylist for Application
Improper do-it-yourself application often leads to premature loosening and tangling. Licensed stylists are experts in precision bonding for balanced weight distribution and comfort. They select optimal adhesive amounts and positions to avoid tension root stress. Take advantage of free touch-ups and immediate reapplication if any sections loosen over time.
Conclusion for Keeping Natural Hair Extensions Beautiful Long Term
Caring properly for natural hair extensions ensures they blend flawlessly with your own hair for months not weeks. Avoid overwashing, brushing and hot tool manipulation to reduce frizz and friction damage over time. Instead opt for hydrating cleansers, leave-in masks and air drying styles. With delicate detangling, low heat and proper salon application you’ll love your smooth natural hair extensions for seasons on end!
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