Keep reading for stress-free styling tips

Ever had that heart-stopping moment when your brush clings to your extensions like Velcro? Yeah, we’ve been there: struggling through a forest of tangles isn’t exactly a glam way to start or end your day. 

 

But fear not, because those knotty nightmares are about to get a major upgrade. This quick guide is your secret weapon to maintaining those lush locks effortlessly. 

 

From choosing the right tools to perfecting your technique, we’re dishing all the need-to-know tips to keep your extensions smooth and your styling stress-free. 

 

Get ready to brush up on your skills and turn those tangles into tales of triumph!

 

First things first: get to know your extensions

Although it seems like their obvious use, extensions are not just about adding length; they're your style secret for volume, color, and confidence. But before you brush up (pun intended), you’ve got to know what you’re working with. Let’s unravel the mystery of different extensions and their care nuances.

 

– Clip-ins are like the high heels of hair accessories—slip them on for an instant glam effect and off at the end of the day. They typically don't face daily wear, so gentle brushing before and after use should keep them untangled and ready for the next outing.

 

– Tape-ins, think of them as your all-day wedges: comfortable enough to wear often but needing a bit more TLC to keep them looking fresh. They stick close to the roots, so make sure to gently detangle them without tugging at the adhesive. Start from the ends, and work your way up to avoid pulling on the tapes.

 

– Weaves are your commitment sneakers, sewn in for the long run. They require a routine just like your natural hair. Use a brush that glides through the wefts without catching or snagging the threads, maintaining the integrity of the weave and preventing matting.

 

Each type of extension interacts differently with your natural hair and lifestyle, so understanding these differences is key to maintaining not just the look but the health of your extensions and scalp.

 

 Picking the perfect brush for your extensions

The right tools can make all the difference in managing your hair extensions without turning your dressing table into a battleground. Choosing the best brush for your extensions is important to keep them looking salon-fresh for longer.

 

Soft bristle brushes

For all types of extensions, particularly clip-ins, a soft bristle brush is a must-have in your toolkit. These brushes are gentle enough to detangle without pulling out or damaging the extensions. They smoothly glide through the hair, distributing natural oils and keeping the extensions moisturized and shiny.

 

Wide-tooth combs

Wide-tooth combs are perfect for wet or damp hair extensions, and they’re especially useful for combing through conditioner or detangling treatments. Recommended for tape-ins, they help prevent breakage and are particularly friendly to curly or wavy extensions.

 

Loop brushes

Loop brushes are the heroes for weaves or more permanent extensions. Their unique looped bristles allow you to detangle without snagging threads or pulling at the roots, making them ideal for routine maintenance and styling.

 

As for product recommendations, the Tangle Teezer is fantastic for synthetic and real hair extensions alike, as it gently teases out knots without compromising the hair’s integrity. The WetBrush also comes highly recommended for its ultra-soft bristles, which work wonders on both damp and dry extensions, minimizing stress on the hair and scalp.

 

Investing in the right brush means preserving the beauty and lifespan of your extensions, allowing every day to be a good hair day. Keep in mind that treating your extensions well means they will look better, last longer, and continue to boost your style quotient.

 

How to brush your hair extensions

Brushing your hair extensions shouldn't be a total headache; it's all about the right touch and the perfect tool. Armed with the best techniques and a gentle approach, you can keep your extensions in pristine condition. Here’s how to brush your way to flawless, tangle-free hair extensions every time.

Step 1: Start with the right tool

Grab your trusty brush, opting for the right one based on the suggestions above.

Step 2: Apply a detangling spray (optional)

If your faux strands are feeling dry, feel free to add an extension-friendly moisture spray. 

Step 3: Start at the bottom

Always start detangling from the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots. This method prevents unnecessary tugging and minimizes breakage.

Step 4: Gently brush through the strands 

Use gentle strokes. If you encounter a tangle, stay calm and patient; approach it with care and precision. This method makes sure you untangle without causing any damage or stress to your extensions.

Step 5: Support your bonds

As you work your way further to the top, hold the hair at the root or bonding point to minimize stress on where they’re attached.

 

Brushing hair extensions when dry vs. wet

Dry	Wet
Always aim to brush your extensions dry. Hair is most vulnerable when wet, and brushing wet can lead to stretching and breakage. If you must detangle wet, use a wide-tooth comb gently.	If your routine demands combing through the conditioner in the shower, proceed with caution. Support your extensions with one hand while gently combing through with the other.

Frequency matters when it comes to care

• For daily wear extensions like tape-ins, a quick brush in the morning and before bed helps prevent tangling. Make it part of your routine, like brushing your teeth.

• For clip-ins, brushing before and after each use is enough to keep them in pristine condition.

 

Remember, the goal is to maintain not just the style but the integrity of your extensions. With these techniques in your styling repertoire, you’re all set to keep those extensions looking as dreamy as the day you first fell in love with them. 

 

What not to do when brushing hair extensions

Getting to grips with hair extension care can sometimes feel like learning a new language. Here are some common faux pas to avoid, ensuring your extensions always look their best:

Mistake #1: Overbrushing

Believe it or not, there's such a thing as too much brushing. Overbrushing can lead to unnecessary stress and breakage, especially near ‌attachment points. Stick to brushing your extensions 2-3 times a day with the right tools to keep them tangle-free without going overboard.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the roots

Many people avoid the roots to prevent pulling at the bonds or tapes, but this can lead to tangles and matting at the scalp. Use a soft bristle brush and gently brush near the roots to prevent matting, holding the hair at the base to avoid tugging.

Mistake #3: Brushing wet extensions

Brushing hair extensions while they're wet is a recipe for disaster. Hair is most vulnerable when wet, making it prone to stretching and breaking. Always dry your extensions gently before brushing, or if you must detangle while wet, use a wide-tooth comb sparingly.

Mistake #4: Using the wrong brush

Not all brushes are suitable for extensions. Avoid brushes with balls on the bristles' tips, as these can snag and pull at your extensions. Instead, opt for a loop brush or a wide-tooth comb designed specifically for extensions.

 

By steering clear of these blunders and adopting gentler, more effective techniques, you’ll help prolong the beauty and durability of your hair extensions. Treating your extensions with a bit of care goes a long way!

 

Time to brush up on your hair extension care

Brushing and caring for your hair extensions the right way can make all the difference. When you choose the right tools, master gentle brushing techniques, and avoid common care mistakes, you can help extend the vitality and lifespan of your beloved extensions. 

 

Want to make sure your faux locks stay flawless? Reach out to a stylist at Lauren Ashtyn for bespoke advice and explore specialized products designed just for your hair needs. Let the experts help you keep your hair looking salon-fresh every day!