Hair Habits to Maintain Gorgeous Locks- With or Without Hair Extensions

Whether you're flaunting your natural tresses or enhancing your look with fabulous hair extensions, maintaining healthy habits is essential.

Great hair care routines not only keep your locks looking luscious but also ensure your hair extensions last longer and blend seamlessly. Everyone should adopt hair habits to achieve and maintain gorgeous hair.

1. Regular Cleansing with the Right Products

Clean hair is the foundation of any healthy hair care routine. You dont have to wash every day, but 2-3 times a week will do the trick. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your hair without stripping away its natural oils. For those with extensions, choose an extension-safe product to prevent any damage or slippage. Remember to wash your hair extensions just as you would your natural hair to keep them looking fresh and clean.

2. Condition and Moisturize

Hydration is critical to maintaining soft, manageable hair. Use a quality conditioner after every wash to replenish moisture. Focus on the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent greasiness. For extension wearers, opt for an extension-friendly conditioner to keep your extensions silky smooth without weighing them down.

3. Heat Protection

Heat protection is necessary whether you're styling your natural hair or extensions. Apply a heat protectant spray before using heat-styling tools like blow dryers, flat irons, or curling wands. This simple step can significantly reduce damage, breakage, and split ends, ensuring your hair remains healthy and vibrant.

4. Gentle Detangling

Detangling is a crucial step in any hair care routine. Use a wet brush for natural hair and an extension safe or an extension safe brush for hair extensions. A brush specifically designed for your hair type to gently work through any knots or tangles is a must. Start from the end and work your way up to avoid unnecessary pulling and breakage. For those with extensions, be extra gentle to avoid disturbing the bonds or wefts.

5. Regular Trims

Split ends can make your hair look unhealthy and dull. Regular trims every 6-8 weeks can prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, keeping your hair looking fresh and vibrant. Extension wearers should schedule regular maintenance appointments to ensure their extensions remain in top condition and blend seamlessly with their natural hair.

6. Healthy Diet and Hydration

What you put into your body reflects on the outside, including your hair. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals like biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids can promote healthy hair growth and strength. Drinking plenty of water also keeps your hair hydrated from the inside out, giving it a natural shine and softness.

7. Scalp Care

A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Regularly massage your scalp to stimulate blood circulation and promote hair growth. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a scalp treatment to remove any buildup of products or oils. A clean, well-nourished scalp provides the perfect environment for your hair to thrive. Salon 1827's extension clients are given a scalp treatment at every maintenance appointment to promote a healthy scalp.

8. Protective Hairstyles

Protective styles can reduce the risk of breakage and split ends, especially for those with long hair or extensions. Braids, buns, and ponytails can keep your hair secure and tangle-free. Just ensure they are not too tight to avoid putting stress on your hair follicles, which can lead to traction alopecia.

9. Avoid Over-Processing

Excessive coloring, bleaching, and chemical treatments can weaken your hair over time. If you love changing your hair color, try to space out significant color changes and always follow up with deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and strength. Extension wearers should consult with their stylists to ensure that any chemical treatments are safe for their hair so they can continue supporting hair extensions' weight.

10. Sleep Care

Your nighttime routine can impact your hair's health. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction that can cause breakage and tangles. A bonnet and a microfiber towel are also great in helping reduce friction. For those with extensions, consider loosely braiding your hair or wearing a silk scarf to bed to keep your extensions in place and reduce tangling.

Good hair habits are the cornerstone of beautiful, healthy hair, whether natural or enhanced with extensions. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you'll enjoy stronger, shinier, and more manageable hair. If you have any specific questions or need personalized advice, don't hesitate to contact us to get those questions answered. Happy hair care!

Ready to transform your look with stunning hair extensions? Book a consultation with me, Lesley, your licensed Master Hair Extensionist at Salon 1827, and let's create the hair of your dreams!