You finally have the long, full, beautiful hair you’ve always dreamed of — and now you want to keep it that way. Think of your extensions as a beautiful investment; with the right care routine, they can stay looking fresh and vibrant for months. At Salon Dulay, Orlando’s trusted Aveda Concept salon, we believe that the best-looking extensions come down to a little bit of education. Here’s exactly how to keep your new extensions in peak condition.

Start With the Right Products

One of the most important steps in extension care actually happens before you even step into the shower. It all begins with what you put on your hair. Harsh, sulfate-heavy shampoos strip moisture right out of your extensions, leading to dryness, dullness, and tangles.

We always recommend sticking to sulfate-free, extension-safe formulas. As an Aveda Concept salon, we love the nourishing power of Aveda’s plant-powered products, which are gentle enough to protect your Bellami extensions while keeping your natural hair healthy and hydrated. It’s best to avoid heavy silicones or alcohol-based products near the bonds or wefts, as these can break down the adhesive over time. 

 

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How (and How Often) to Wash Your Extensions

When it comes to washing, less is usually more. Try to limit washing to two or three times a week; over-washing is one of the quickest ways to shorten the lifespan of your investment.

When you do wash, follow these steps:

  • Brush gently before getting in the shower. Use a soft-bristle or loop brush to detangle from ends to roots before water hits your hair. Trying to detangle wet hair adds unnecessary stress to the bonds.
  • Wash in a downward motion. Avoid piling your hair on top of your head or scrubbing aggressively. Instead, gently work your shampoo through in a smooth, downward motionmakes to keep everything flowing in one direction. 
  • Condition from mid-length to ends only. Never apply conditioner directly to the roots or bonds. Doing so can loosen the attachment and cause slippage. Focus your moisture on the mid-lengths and ends where your hair needs it most. 
  • Rinse with cool water. Hot water can weaken bonds over time. Cool water helps seal the cuticle for extra shine and is much gentler on the attachment points than hot water.

Drying and Heat Styling

Always dry your extensions gently and thoroughly — never go to bed with wet hair! Sleeping on damp extensions can be a fast track to matting and tangling that can be hard to undo.

Blow dry on a low to medium heat setting, and always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. This goes for flat irons and curling wands too! Excessive heat is the enemy of hair health, so try to keep your styling tools at or below 350°F to keep your extensions silky and soft.

Brushing: The Daily Essential

Brushing your extensions daily — ideally morning and night — is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your extensions’ lifespan. Use a soft-bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb designed for extensions, and always start from the ends, working your way up toward the roots.

Pro tip: Hold the hair above the point you’re detangling to reduce tension on the bonds. And remember, never brush when your hair is soaking wet!

Protecting Extensions While You Sleep

Nighttime care is easy to overlook, but it can make a big difference. Before you hit the pillow, loosely braid your hair or pull it into a low, soft ponytail to keep it from tangling while you toss and turn. If you want to go the extra mile, swap your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one. These materials reduce friction and keep both your natural hair and your extensions smooth and frizz-free. 

Keep Up With Your Salon Visits

Even with the best at-home routine, regular maintenance at the salon is a non-negotiable. During your appointments, we’ll check your bonds, reposition any that have shifted, and make sure your natural hair stays healthy underneath. Plus, it’s the perfect time for a quick trim to keep everything looking seamless and polished! 

Ready to Book Your Extension Appointment?

Whether you’re considering extensions for the first time or need a professional maintenance visit, the team at Salon Dulay is here to help. Located in the heart of Orlando, FL, we’re dedicated to helping you feel confident and beautiful at every stage of your hair journey. 

Book your consultation today and let’s keep your extensions looking their very best.