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how to clean hair extensions

How to deep-clean your hair extensions for a longer lifespan

- Irene Gilman

Your hair extensions deserve the same level of care and attention as your natural hair—after all, they give you the long, luscious style you love. To keep them looking fresh, shiny, and tangle-free for as long as possible, regular deep-cleaning is essential. Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean clip in hair extensions properly, from the basics to the advanced techniques that will keep them in top condition for months.

 

Why Proper Cleaning Is Essential for Hair Extensions

Just like your natural hair, your natural hair extensions are exposed to oils, dirt, product buildup, and environmental factors every day. Over time, this buildup can dull your extensions, cause tangling, and even shorten their lifespan. Proper cleaning helps maintain the softness, shine, and natural look of your clip-ins ensuring that your investment lasts longer and looks its best. If you want to maximize the lifespan of your extensions, keeping them clean is crucial—this is one of the easiest ways to prevent unnecessary damage and preserve their beauty.



How to Clean Hair Extensions: The Basics

The basic routine to deep clean hair extensions is simple and straightforward. First, detangle your extensions gently using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of shampoo that is free of sulfates. Submerge your extensions and gently lather the hair, making sure not to rub the strands together—this will prevent tangling. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to seal in moisture. Celebrity stylist and hair extension expert, Cynthia Alvarez, recommends, “Always use lukewarm water to avoid damaging the hair cuticle. Too hot water can lead to dryness and frizz, which isn’t ideal for maintaining soft, shiny extensions.”


Deep Cleaning Hair Extensions: When and Why It’s Necessary

how to clean clip in hair extensions

While regular washing can maintain the appearance of your extensions, deep cleaning is necessary to remove stubborn buildup that can’t be eliminated with a simple wash. This might include product residue, oils, and environmental pollutants that have accumulated over time. You’ll want to deep-clean your extensions if they start feeling heavy, looking dull, or becoming more difficult to manage. Depending on how often you wear your extensions, deep cleaning should be done every 4-6 weeks. This deeper cleanse restores the hair’s softness, volume, and bounce, so it’s an essential step for extending the lifespan of your extensions.

 

To deep clean your extensions, follow these simple steps:

  1. Detangle the Hair: Gently comb through the extensions using a wide-tooth comb to remove any knots or tangles. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots to avoid breakage.

  2. Soak in Lukewarm Water: Fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as it can dry out the hair. Add a generous amount of sulfate-free clarifying shampoo and mix it in.

  3. Cleanse the Hair: Submerge the extensions into the water and gently lather the shampoo with your hands. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the extensions together to prevent tangling. Let them soak for 10-15 minutes, gently agitating the water to help lift away any built-up residue.

  4. Rinse and Condition: Rinse the extensions thoroughly with cool water, then apply a moisturizing conditioner to keep the hair soft and hydrated. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, where the hair tends to dry out the most.

  5. Final Rinse: Once conditioned, rinse the hair with cool water to lock in moisture and seal the cuticles for extra shine.



Drying and Storing Clean Hair Extensions

clean hair extensions

After cleaning your extensions, gently squeeze out any excess water and lay them flat on a clean towel to air dry. Avoid wringing them out or rubbing them vigorously, as this can cause breakage and frizz. Never use a blow dryer on high heat, as the intense heat can damage the hair. Instead, let your extensions dry naturally in a cool, dry area. Once dry, store them properly by hanging them in a cool, dry place or placing them in a storage bag. This will help prevent tangling and maintain their shape and quality for longer.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Hair Extensions

To get the most out of your hair extensions, incorporating a few simple habits into your routine will go a long way. Always brush your extensions before and after wearing them to prevent tangling. Avoid excessive heat styling, and if you must use heat, apply a heat protectant to shield the hair. Also, make sure to avoid sleeping in your extensions when possible, as this can cause unnecessary wear and tear. Incorporating a weekly deep conditioning treatment can keep your extensions soft and healthy, while regular cleaning ensures that they stay fresh and tangle-free.

With the right care and attention, your Atelier Extensions can maintain their luxurious look and feel for much longer. By deep-cleaning them on a regular basis, using the right products, and storing them properly, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful, voluminous hair for months to come.

 

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