Clip-in hair extensions are a godsend for anyone desiring the look of thicker, fuller or longer hair – instantly. Fast becoming the secret beauty weapon of women everywhere, clip in hair extensions give the illusion of dream hair with much less cost and much less hassle than regular hair extensions.
The extra length, volume, and thickness given by clip-in hair extensions allow you to style your hair any way you like, in a matter of a few minutes. The best part is that clip-in extensions made with human hair look fully natural and blend perfectly with your own hair.
While clip extensions are generally low maintenance, like every other hair extension, they do require some care to look beautiful and last longer.
Here are the key tips to know about how to care for your clip-in extensions
#1 – Avoid Over Washing Your Extensions
Unlike your natural hair, hair extensions don’t get oils from your scalp. That means it isn’t a good idea to go overboard with washing your clip-in hair extensions. Excessive washing will dehydrate the hair, making it frizzy and brittle. It can also lead to the hair strands falling out or breaking away.
Whether you are using ZALA clip-in hair extensions or any other brand, most hair experts recommend washing them once every 4 to 6 weeks. But the frequency of washing also depends on how often you use the extensions and how many products you apply to them. As an alternative to washing the wefts frequently, it’s a good idea to use a dry shampoo every two weeks.
#2 – Don’t Go Overboard With Brushing
While it makes sense to regularly brush your clip-in hair extensions, you don’t have to do it when they are not in use. But make sure to brush them before and after applying them to your hair. Also, brush the wefts before storing them.
While you can use a regular brush, we recommend a wig brush or a loop brush because they gently detangle and smoothen the hair. Alternatively, you could use a wide-toothed comb.
When using the brush or comb, be sure to always begin from the ends of the extensions and gently work your way up towards the root. Doing so will reduce the risk of hair breakage and hair fall.
#3 – Use Heat Tools Only When Essential
Excessive use of heat tools like dryers and curling wands can cause damage to even the best clip-in hair extensions. That’s why you should use heat tools only when there’s no other option. And while using such tools, make sure to set the temperature at a minimum.
We recommend washing your extensions whenever you won’t need to use them right away and leaving them to air dry instead of using a blow dryer. Also, run your fingers through the wefts after washing as doing so removes the tangles. You can then leave the extensions on a towel to dry out.
#4 – Use a Conditioner
As mentioned above, your hair extensions don’t get moisture or oil from your scalp. As such, it makes sense to give them some extra moisture when needed. The role of a conditioner is to top up the hair with the essential nutrients and moisture so it looks silky, smooth, and shiny.
While your regular conditioner can do the job, you also have the option to use a leave-in conditioner. But don’t apply too many products to your extensions, as they can make your hair look weighed-down and lifeless.
#5 – Store Your Extensions Properly
It’s never a good idea to remove your clip extensions and throw them wherever you want. Hair extensions require proper storage to stay free of damage.
Most clip-in hair extensions come with special hangers. Make sure to brush your extensions and put them on the hanger. Or you could store the wefts in a large box. This practice will retain the beauty and softness of the hair, in addition to prolonging the extensions’ life.
#6 – Don’t Swim With Your Extensions On
It’s never recommended to swim with your extensions because the chlorine in the water can damage the hair. The best thing about clip-in hair extensions is that you can quickly remove and reapply them without going to a hairdresser. That means you’ll have no problem removing them before taking a dip in the pool. No more excuses to swim with your wefts on!
But if you prefer not to take off your extensions, a swimming cap is a must to avoid damage to the hair. Also, be sure to wash the extensions with fresh water and a chlorine stripping shampoo right after swimming.
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