How to Wash and Care for Hand-Tied Hair Extensions Without Ruining Them

Almost every client with extensions has the same worry: “Am I washing them the right way?” I get it. Extensions are an investment and the last thing you want is to shorten their lifespan by treating them like regular hair. The truth is, a few small changes to your wash and care routine make all the difference.

How Often Should You Wash Extensions?

With extensions, less washing is actually better. Aim for once a week, or every ten days if you can. Washing too often strips away natural oils and dries out the extension hair, leaving it brittle and tangled. Stretching the time between washes not only protects your extensions, it also saves you time in your weekly routine.

Shampooing Without Stressing the Wefts

When wash day comes, focus on your scalp first. Apply shampoo to the crown, temples, and nape of your neck. Work gently with the pads of your fingers in small circles, keeping your hands flat so you don’t pull at the wefts. Don’t worry about scrubbing the ends. Let the water carry the shampoo through them as you rinse.

If you use a second shampoo for moisture or toning, apply it the same way. Section your hair if you have multiple rows so you can reach both above and underneath each one. The key is to be thorough around the attachment points without creating unnecessary tension.

Conditioning the Right Way

After rinsing, squeeze out as much water as you can before reaching for conditioner. Start at the ends and work your way up to the middle of your hair. Avoid putting conditioner directly on the scalp unless your stylist has told you otherwise. Leave it in for at least ten minutes so it has time to do its job. Finish with a cold rinse to seal the cuticle and lock in shine.

Drying and Styling After Wash Day

Never brush your extensions when they’re dripping wet. Hair is most fragile at this stage and it’s easy to cause breakage. Instead, gently towel dry, then let your hair air dry until it’s about eighty to ninety percent dry. Once it’s nearly dry, start brushing from the ends and slowly work upward, holding your hair at the base near the wefts for support.

If you’re using a blow dryer, work in sections. Keep the heat at a medium level and always make sure the top of the weft is fully dry. Leaving it damp can cause problems later. When using hot tools, keep the temperature under three hundred fifty degrees to protect both your natural hair and the extensions.

Keeping Extensions Fresh Between Washes

Since you’re washing less often, how you care for your hair in between is just as important. Brush daily, starting at the ends and moving upward. Be mindful around the wefts, holding your hair so there’s no pulling. Loose styles like braids, buns, or ponytails are great for days you don’t want to wear it down. They also help protect your extensions while you sleep.

Vacation and Everyday Care

Living in South Florida, I always remind clients that sun, salt, and chlorine require extra attention. Avoid getting sunscreen directly on your extensions, as it can cause discoloration. Skip chlorine altogether if possible, since it’s harsh on extension hair. Salt water is fine, but make sure you rinse and detangle as soon as you’re out of the ocean.

At night, always go to bed with dry hair. A loose braid on a soft pillowcase will keep tangles away and protect the wefts. Little habits like these really extend the life of your hair.

When to See Your Stylist

Even with great at-home care, regular maintenance is a must. I usually recommend clients come in every four to six weeks for a refresh. It keeps the extensions looking seamless and ensures the health of your natural hair. Don’t wait until something feels off. A quick appointment with your stylist will save you from bigger headaches later.

Final Thoughts

Extensions are beautiful, but they’re also a commitment. With the right wash routine and a few mindful habits, they can stay looking fresh and natural for months. If you’re unsure about anything, ask your stylist. We’d rather guide you than have you guess. At LAHH Salon here in Bay Harbor Islands, we love helping clients get the most out of their extensions, whether you’re coming straight from downtown or heading out after a stop by the local library. If you’re ready for professional advice or just need a refresh, come see us at 1090 Kane Concourse Unit B, Bay Harbor Islands, FL 33154. You can reach us at (305) 877-7706 or book your visit online. Let’s keep your hair as gorgeous as the day you left the chair.