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Beauty 101: Hair Extensions
Curly clip-in hair extensions are non-damaging and non-invasive alternatives to people who want to change up their appearance and add volume or length to their hair minus the heavy commitment. Applying and removing it is hassle-free, and there are several varieties available in the market.
On the other hand, some types of curly human hair extensions need a specific type of maintenance to preserve their quality and prevent any damage. This is especially true for those who do not mind spending extra on high-quality extensions that are close to the real thing.
Below is a complete guide for how to care on your curly clip-in extensions like a pro.
How to Care for your Curly Clip-in Locks:
There are three key steps in preserving your precious hair extensions: Wash, Condition, and Detangle. In terms of Restoring them, there are also important tips to keep in mind.
Washing
The first thing you need to do before washing your curly extensions is to check whether it needs rinsing in the first place. Overwashing your hair extensions tend to loosen up the part where the clip-in extensions are installed or attached to your hair. Some hair experts say that washing your clip-in locks regularly is ideal, while others may recommend washing them every other week.
If your extensions still have prominent curls with minimal frizziness, then you don’t need to wash or rinse them completely. A light spritz of water mixed with the conditioner should do. Sometimes, all your extensions need are a little refreshing and moisturizing to keep them looking bouncy and vibrant.
Photo: Ron Lach/Pexels On the other hand, if your curly extensions are in dire need of a full wash, be mindful of the following tips:
- Take off your clip-in extensions before washing.
- Co-washing your curly clip-in hair extensions means cleansing them with conditioner alone. Do this 1-2 times a week to keep it soft and moisturized.
- Use lukewarm water when washing your extensions. Do not apply excessive pressure on the extensions to keep them from getting tangled and crimped.
- Rinse the shampoo or conditioner thoroughly and squeeze out excess water. Pat the extensions dry with a towel.
Conditioning
For clip-in extensions made of natural human hair, using the same type of conditioner as the one you use on your real hair is alright. You can also use conditioners that are paraben and alcohol-free and contain moisturizing properties. However, if your extensions are synthetic, the best shampoo and conditioner to use must have built-in clarifying ingredients for deep cleaning that does not compromise its quality.
You can leave the conditioner on for five to ten minutes or even overnight for better results. Alternatively, you can also use a hair mask to ensure your extensions lock in more hydration and vitality.
Detangling
Believe it or not, there is a correct way of detangling your curly extensions. The wrong way to detangle it is by using your fingers and running through the locks while it is dry. This mistake causes your clip-ins to break and lose some strands.
Instead, soak your extensions in warm water. Start combing through the strands from the bottom going to the top using a wide-tooth comb or a sturdy detangling brush. It will require patience because you need to be gentle and careful not to ruin it by putting too much force or friction. Alternatively, you can also apply detangling shampoo or argan oil to help ease the detangling process.
Restoring/Reviving
Over time, the cuticles of your curly extensions begin to wear out as a result of regular washing and shampooing. Fortunately, there are different ways to restore the bounciness and smooth texture of your extensions.
Natural treatments such as apple cider vinegar, coconut, or jojoba oil are among the popular choices that are best suited for curly extensions. An apple cider vinegar wash helps regulate the hair’s pH balance and restore it to its normal level. To do this, soak the extensions in a mixture of 1 part ACV with 3 parts water. Let it immerse into the mixture for a maximum of 60 minutes or an hour. Apply a deep conditioning product after and rinse thoroughly.
Serums are also excellent at replenishing luster and softness in your extensions. Should you need to use styling products like a blow dryer, do not forget to apply a heat protectant first to prevent burning. Use low heat at all times. Better yet, simply let your extensions air dry. Air drying reduces the possibility of causing frizz and tangling on your curly locks.
Your choice of pillows and pillowcases can also cause a significant amount of damage. Satin pillows are highly recommended because their smooth texture reduces frizz-causing friction that can ruin your hair. Wearing a headscarf or bonnet made of silk will also protect your curly or wavy extensions.
Finally, store your extensions either by letting them hang or lie flat in a dry and cool container when not in use. Do not expose your hair extensions to direct sunlight.
By taking note of the hair care tips provided in this blog, you can retain and prolong the quality of your curly extensions without fail.
