How to Take Care of Hair Extensions: Find Your Own Way

Getting hair extensions is exciting—like, can’t stop looking in the mirror.

That instant volume and length? Yes please. But after the selfies and the compliments settle down, the real question kicks in:

How to take care of hair extensions?

Because here’s the thing—hair extensions might look low-maintenance, but they’ve got needs.

And they’ve got boundaries too. If you treat them right, they’ll stick around and keep looking fresh. If not? Well... let’s just say tangles and dryness don’t take days off.

So whether you’ve already got a head full of bundles or you’re thinking about getting your first install, we’re gonna talk about what extensions love, what they absolutely hate, and the little habits you’ll want to switch up.

With the right care routine—and a few solid do’s and don’ts—you’ll figure out your rhythm in no time.

Let’s get into it.

Cheap Hair, High Maintenance — Spend Once, Stress Less

Let’s be real: not all hair extensions are created equal.

You can do everything right—moisturize, detangle, wrap it up at night—but if the hair itself is dry, stiff, or shedding like a cat in summer? You’re fighting a losing battle.

That’s why the first rule of extension care is this: invest in good hair, and it’ll take care of you.

Premium human hair extensions hold moisture better, last longer, and style easier.

They move like real hair (because, well, they are), and they don’t tangle every time the wind blows.

Basically, the better the quality, the less effort you’ll have to put in just to keep it looking decent.

And that’s not just about looks—it’s about time, energy, and peace of mind.

If you’re not sure where to start, QVR Human Hair is one of those brands people swear by for a reason.

The texture is soft, the bundles are full, and the longevity? Chef’s kiss.

Whether you’re into sew-ins, tape-ins, or clip-ins, their hair blends beautifully and holds up through multiple installs, which means more wear, less worry.

How to Take Care Of Hair Extensions?

Hair extensions are a little like houseplants. Give them what they need, don’t overdo it, and they’ll thrive. But start doing the most?

You’ll wonder why everything’s dry, tangled, and not giving. So let’s break it down—what they love, what they hate, and what you’ll probably need to change.

What They Need: A Little TLC Goes a Long Way

Extensions may not be growing out of your scalp, but they still need love. Especially if they’re human hair—treat them like your own.

Oils (but not too much): A light oil like argan or jojoba keeps the hair from drying out, especially on the ends. Don’t soak it—just a few drops will do.
Moisture: Dry hair is cranky hair. A light leave-in conditioner or a water-based spray will keep it soft and manageable.
Detangling: Always detangle gently, starting from the ends and working your way up. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers—your extensions will thank you.
Gentle handling: No yanking, no scrubbing like you're mad at it. Be soft. Extensions live longer when you treat them kindly.

What They Refuse: Things That’ll Ruin the Vibe

Extensions are not here for chaos. There are a few things they just can’t tolerate—and if you keep doing them, your install won’t last.

Overwashing: Washing too often strips the hair of its natural oils. Once a week (or even every two weeks) is plenty, depending on your style.
Overstyling: Constant brushing, restyling, or flipping your part every day? Not it. Let the hair rest.
Too much heat: Flat irons, blow dryers, curling wands... limit the heat. And always use a heat protectant if you’re going in. Think of it like sunscreen for your extensions—skip it, and you’ll see the damage.

**What You Need to Change: Old Habits, Meet New Hair**

Now let’s talk about you. Because taking care of extensions means shifting how you handle your hair, period.

Washing: No more scrubbing in circles. Use downward motions, let the water flow through, and focus on the scalp, not the tracks.
Combing: Patience is key. Always detangle gently, starting from the bottom. Never rip through knots like you're in a rush—because then you will be in a rush… to replace them.
Sleeping: Wrap it up every night. Satin scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase—whatever keeps it protected. A pineapple bun works wonders for curls and waves.

Dos and Don’ts About Caring for Hair Extensions

Let’s keep it simple—here’s your cheat sheet. These are the habits that keep your extensions looking fresh vs. the ones that’ll have you booking a reinstall sooner than you planned.

DO:

Wrap it up before bed. Satin or silk only, please. A bonnet, scarf, or pillowcase keeps your hair from drying out and tangling while you toss and turn.
Detangle regularly, gently. No ripping through knots. Start from the ends, work your way up, and use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
Moisturize often. A little hydration goes a long way. Light leave-ins and oils keep the hair soft, especially the ends.
Care for your hair after swimming. Chlorine and saltwater dry out extensions fast. Rinse with clean water, condition, and don’t skip the wrap afterward.
Use heat protectant if styling. If you’re reaching for that flat iron, give your hair a fighting chance. Heat protectant is not optional.

DON’T:

Sleep with wet hair. That’s a guaranteed recipe for tangles, mildew, and a very bad time. Let it air dry first.
Overwash. Once a week—or less—is enough. Constant washing strips the hair and makes it dry and frizzy.
Ignore your leave-out or scalp. Just because it’s not visible doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter. Moisturize your scalp, cleanse when needed, and don’t forget your real hair.
Pile on heavy products. Too much product = buildup. And buildup = stiff, greasy hair that won’t move. Keep it light.
Use high heat every day. The more you flat iron, the shorter your install’s life span. Let your hair breathe sometimes.