How Long Do Hair Extensions Last: Taking Care and Maintaining Your Extensions
“How long do hair extensions last?” This is the most difficult question to answer and one we get asked all the time! The lifespan of human hair extensions relies on what products you use on them, how you take care of them, and, for clip-in extensions, how often you wear them.
The simple answer is that many factors come into play here, but one thing is clear: the lifespan of your hair extensions will largely depend on the type you select.
The material used to make the hair extensions you select is the most high-impact factor regarding how long they’ll last. Synthetic vs. human hair extensions are typically the first choice you’ll have to make, with synthetic ones usually being less expensive (but lasting a shorter period) than most human hair varieties.
When making such a hair change, it’s important to consider the aftercare process and what you’re getting for your money.
Here at On the Avenue Salon and Blowout Bar, we offer a fabulous range of real hair extensions, so you can be sure that you’re getting the best results and the right care for your hair.
Whether it is the first time you’ve considered hair extensions or are seeking advice after taking the plunge, we’re on hand to take you through how long hair extensions last and offer a handful of helpful hints and tips for maintaining your new head of hair.
How Long Do Hair Extensions Last?
Human hair extensions of average quality usually last for 3 to 6 months, whereas synthetic hair extensions typically last between 1 to 2 months. The extensions can last up to 12 months if you take good care of your hair and use the fusion procedure.
While we can provide you with approximate durations for the life of your hair extensions, many more aspects affect the health of your strands. Human hair typically has a very long shelf life; however, since it is no longer connected to the scalp and requires different levels of maintenance depending on the wearer, we recommend that the hair lasts for three to six months.
Naturally, this is only a very general rule, and people who adhere to the proper maintenance and aftercare instructions can live considerably longer than this; conversely, improper hair extension care might shorten the lifespan of your extensions.
How To Take Care Of Hair Extensions
It’s not hard to take care of human hair extensions, but there are some things that you should keep in mind:
Install Properly
Proper application also influences the duration of hair extensions. An improper hair extension installation can lead to a variety of issues. It may produce friction, worsening the tangling and leaving you with an unsightly, disorganized mess.
Keep Your Hair Clean
Dirt and sweat can cause your hair extensions to tangle. To prevent this, wash them with sulfate—or paraben-free shampoo. Before shampooing, detangle your hair from the ends to the roots and wash it from the roots to the ends.
Ensure Your Hair Is Dried After Washing Or Swimming
Wet or damp hair can damage your extensions’ tape adhesive or bonds. As a result, it can be removed from your real hair.
Use Soft Bristle Brushes
Soft bristle brushes remove tangles while preventing damage to the tape adhesive. Start at the ends and work your way up. All brushing should be done in a downward, gentle motion to prevent putting too much tension on your hair extensions.
Brush Daily
The fact that even something as easy as brushing can greatly prolong the life of any extensions is crucial. Tangling, matting, and frizz are the main culprits behind hair damage. It can swiftly destroy extensions, leaving them ugly and useless. Regular brushing keeps the extensions tangle-free and in excellent condition.
Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure, Chlorine, And Saltwater
They are the biggest enemies of human hair extensions. Sun exposure, chlorine, and saltwater can dehydrate hair, leading to dryness and tangles.
When swimming in a pool or beach, it is recommended that you wear swim caps or keep your hair in a ponytail or plait. If your extensions get wet, use shampoo and conditioner immediately.
Apply Conditioner to Your Hair Extensions Regularly
Using a conditioner makes your hair extensions shine and repairs your hair’s protective layer, the cuticle layer. When applying conditioner, focus on mid-lengths to ends to avoid your roots becoming too greasy.
Avoid Washing Your Hair Extensions Daily
Washing your hair extensions daily can dry them out. To keep them hydrated, wash them up to three times a week; however, this will depend on the thickness and the products you apply to them.
Make Sure Your Hair Is Completely Dry Before Bed
Tangles can develop when sleeping with wet human hair extensions. Certain hair strands may also tug on your natural hair, causing harm. Since your hair extensions are made entirely of human hair, you can blow-dry them. When you blow-dry them, the bonding won’t melt because they are heatproof. We suggest wearing your hair in a low ponytail or plait before bed to prevent tangling.
Dip Your Hair Extensions In Water With Diluted Shampoo
The easiest way to clean your hair extensions between applications and when they aren’t in your hair is to submerge them in water with diluted shampoo. Before soaking them:
- Comb your extensions a few times to remove any tangles.
- Submerge your extensions in the water for 10 minutes and move them from side to side to clean them properly.
- Never swirl your hair extensions in the water to prevent tangles from forming.
Rinse Your Extensions Under Cold Running Water
Running water helps remove dirt from your extensions. The cold temperature allows moisture to stay in the hair extensions and prevents them from drying out. After rinsing, squeeze them with your hands and place clip-ins on a clean towel to dry; for permanent methods, gently pat dry with a towel before blow-drying.
Don’t Overuse Hot Tools
Hot tools like a curler or flat iron also reduce extensions’ lifespan. Although those tools are great for blending and styling the hair with extensions, heat can damage strands eventually. Avoid using hot tools daily, and note that you should spray some heat protectant before.
We are aware that following a hair wash, everyone is frequently pressed for time! Women prefer things to dry quickly, and blow dryers are ideal for this. If you use extensions, we do urge you to use it less frequently. The lifespan of the extensions may be shortened and damage caused by frequent exposure to heat.
Do you want to do everything possible to keep your hair flawless and wearable for a long time? Then, avoid using the blow dryer and instead dry your tresses naturally.
Avoid Hair Dyes
We advise against using hair extensions if you want to be able to wear your hair longer than three months, even though you can dye and bleach them.
Strong chemicals in hair dyes, particularly bleach, dry out hair and frequently result in breakage and thinness. We understand that it’s enjoyable to switch out the color of your extensions, but consider the potential repercussions.
Conclusion
Even though hair extensions have a three to six month lifespan, damage can nonetheless occur during the first month. a reason for persistent over-drying, applying incorrect heat to straighten hair, failing to brush, and other habits. A number of our clients have managed to extend the life of their hair extensions by several months, bringing it closer to eight months.
Do you want to learn more about hair extensions or you want to schedule an appointment for hair extensions? Please reach out to us today!