The Do’s and Don’ts of Caring for Hair Extensions at Home

Hair extensions can instantly transform your look—adding volume, length, and confidence. But to keep them looking salon-fresh, they need a different level of care than your natural hair. Extensions don’t receive oils from your scalp, so hydration, gentle handling, and strategic styling are essential.

At The Warehouse Salon, widely known as the best salon in Fairfield, NJ, we help clients protect their extensions so they stay healthy, smooth, and long-lasting. Whether you're new to extensions or a seasoned wearer, here's your guide to keeping them looking their absolute best.

Washing Extensions the Right Way

Your wash routine is key to keeping extensions clean and secure. Extensions typically need washing only every 5 to 7 days, which helps preserve the bonds and prevent drying them out.

• Use a sulfate-free, hydrating shampoo and apply only to the scalp.
• Let the shampoo rinse through the lengths—don’t scrub or twist the extensions.
• Avoid flipping your head over in the shower, which can lead to tangling.

Our pick:
Aluram Moisturizing Shampoo – This gentle, moisture-rich shampoo is ideal for cleaning your scalp without interfering with bonds or tape tabs.

Blondes, take note: Purple shampoo can cling more aggressively to extensions than your natural hair. Mix it with regular shampoo or apply lightly and rinse quickly (30 seconds to one minute) to avoid any unwanted violet tones.

Apply Conditioner—But Only Where It’s Needed

Conditioner can be a friend to extensions, but only if used correctly. Always apply it from the mid-lengths down to the ends. Never apply conditioner to the roots or near the extension attachments, as this can cause tapes to slip or wefts to loosen.

Our pick:
Keratherapy Deep Conditioning Hair Mask – A deep hydration treatment that helps restore softness and shine to dry or heat-styled extensions.

Want to take it a step further? Try a weekly intensive repair session with Olaplex No. 8 for rich moisture and strength without buildup.

Drying Techniques That Protect

Wet extensions are fragile. How you dry them can make or break their longevity—literally.

• After washing, gently pat (never rub) with a microfiber towel or soft T-shirt.
• Focus on squeezing out moisture from the mid-lengths down to the ends.
• If air drying, always rough dry the roots first—especially around tapes or wefts—to prevent mildew or slipping adhesive.

Our pick:
Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray – This heat protectant reduces drying time and adds shine while safeguarding your hair and extensions from heat damage. Apply only from mid-length to ends.

If you use a blow dryer, aim for medium heat and keep it moving—don’t hover over bonds or tapes, which could weaken adhesives.

Brushing Without Breakage

Extensions require gentle, regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Start at the ends and slowly work upward to the roots, holding your hair near the scalp to avoid tugging at the bonds.

Choose a brush that’s extension-friendly—ideally one with flexible or looped bristles designed to glide through without snagging. Avoid regular hard-bristle brushes, which can catch on attachments.

Only brush your hair when it’s at least 70% dry to minimize stretching or snapping. Brush before bed and before washing to reduce buildup and knots.

Prepping for Bed

Going to sleep with unprotected hair is one of the quickest ways to ruin your extensions. You need to protect your investment overnight:

• Braid your hair loosely or tie it into a low ponytail using a silk or satin scrunchie.
• Never sleep with wet hair—this can cause matting and tension that weakens the bond.
• Use a silk or satin pillowcase if you have one to minimize friction and help your hair retain moisture.

If you tend to move a lot at night or wake up with tangles, combining a loose braid with a soft pillowcase can make a noticeable difference in preserving your extension bonds and preventing unnecessary breakage.

Extend the Life of Your Hair Extensions

Your extensions are an investment, and with the right care, they can last longer, look better, and feel more comfortable. From your wash routine to your bedtime habits, every step matters.

At The Warehouse Salon, the best salon in Fairfield, NJ, we’ve helped hundreds of clients achieve gorgeous hair extension results and keep them healthy at home. Whether you’re due for a refresh or just need a custom product routine, we’re here to help.

Visit us in person or shop online to get everything you need to care for your extensions and natural hair the right way.