They may be down, but they’re never out—here’s to some TLC
Scrolling through TikTok or Instagram these days feels like stepping into a beauty hack wonderland, doesn’t it? From avocado masks to fabric softener soaks (yes, really), the internet is bursting with DIY solutions for every hair dilemma under the sun. But let’s be honest—when it comes to your hair extensions, it’s hard to know which hacks are actually worth trying and which ones might turn your pricey strands into a frizzy mess.
Extensions are a HUGE investment, not just a beauty hack. Whether they’re your go-to for glam nights or your everyday confidence boost, keeping them soft, silky, and fault-free is a must. But what happens when they start to feel dry and lifeless? Tossing them isn’t an option—you’ve got too much money (and love!) tied up in those strands.
That’s where we come in. We’re cutting through the noise and breaking down the real, effective ways to make your hair extensions soft again—right at home. No fluff, no guesswork, just tried-and-true remedies to bring them back to life. Ready to ditch the drama and bring your extensions back to their full potential?
Why do extensions start feeling dry?
First things first—WHY are your extensions suddenly feeling dry and frizzy? Unlike your natural hair, extensions don’t get the nourishing love of scalp oils, aka sebum, which keeps hair soft and moisturized. Add in heat styling, exposure to the elements, or even over-washing, and it’s no surprise your strands might feel like straw.
Don’t panic, though. Your extensions aren’t doomed. The right care can breathe life back into them, no matter how dry or tangled they’ve become. Here’s where the real magic happens: giving your extensions some targeted TLC with simple, at-home remedies that actually work.
From pantry staples like coconut oil to game-changing habits like air drying and using sulfate-free products, there are plenty of ways to restore your extensions’ softness. And guess what? You don’t have to spend a fortune or resort to over-the-top TikTok hacks to do it.
Let’s break it down step by step because your extensions deserve a glow-up, and so do you.
The SOS guide—How to make hair extensions soft again at home
Want to bring your extensions back to life? Here are the remedies that *actually* work—no guesswork, just real results. From professional products to budget-friendly home hacks, here’s how to transform dry, lifeless strands into soft, touchable extensions once again.
1. Deep conditioner
Moisture is non-negotiable for reviving extensions, especially human hair. A deep-conditioning treatment is your first line of defense. Products like the Olaplex No. 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner or Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask are amazing for restoring hydration and shine.
For human hair, apply your chosen conditioner generously, focusing on the ends. Warm it slightly beforehand to help it penetrate better. Wrap your extensions in a plastic bag or shower cap to trap heat, and let it sit for at least 30–60 minutes. Synthetic hair? Use a lightweight, water-based conditioning spray like the Jon Renau Fiber Love Conditioning Spray to avoid build-up.
2. Embrace the power of oils
When extensions are feeling straw-like, oils can work wonders—if used correctly. For human hair extensions, lightweight options like argan oil (try the trusty Moroccanoil Treatment) or almond oil help restore softness and gloss. Apply a few drops to the ends, avoiding the roots to prevent a greasy look.
If you’re reviving synthetic extensions, skip heavy oils and instead use products like Silicone Serum Drops, which mimic the smooth, glossy effect without damaging synthetic fibers.
3. Choose the right cleanse
Ever heard of TOO much washing? Yup, it’s a thing. Overwashing and the wrong products are major culprits for dryness. If your extensions feel parched, switch to a sulfate-free shampoo, such as the Clarifying Shampoo by Moroccanoil®, which gently cleanses without stripping moisture.
For synthetic extensions, try our The Lauren Ashtyn Collection Extension Shampoo, designed specifically to maintain shine and hydration in both natural and synthetic fibers (we promise we’re not biased, it’s a goodie). And remember—wash sparingly! Aim to cleanse only when truly necessary, like after heavy product build-up.
4. Fabric softener for synthetic strands
For synthetic extensions, this TikTok-famous hack actually works. Mix a capful of fabric softener (any will do), with cold water in a basin. Soak your extensions for 30–60 minutes, rinse thoroughly, and air-dry flat. This method softens fibers and minimizes tangling, but PLEASE avoid this for human hair extensions as it may damage the cuticle layer. And that’s not hot.
5. Add leave-ins and detanglers to your arsenal
After washing, it’s all about sealing in moisture and keeping tangles at bay. For human hair extensions, a leave-in conditioner like the Moroccanoil® one helps nourish and protect against dryness. For synthetic extensions, try a generic spray detangler to make brushing easier without pulling or snapping fibers.
When detangling, use a wide-tooth comb or a loop brush specifically designed for extensions, starting at the ends and working your way up to prevent breakage.
6. Heat tools—Handle with care
Heat styling can add to the dryness if not done properly. Always use a heat protectant spray before applying any heat tools, PLEASE. And for synthetic extensions, use only tools designed for heat-friendly fibers—because we don’t want any melted fibers now, do we?
Better yet, skip the heat altogether and go for no-heat styling methods like braids or rollers to create waves and curls without damage.
7. Regular TLC—Hydration sprays and serums
Extensions need consistent care to stay soft. Invest in hydration sprays to lock in moisture and combat frizz. Use these products sparingly between washes for a quick refresh.
8. Protect while you sleep
Dryness and tangles often get worse overnight. Before bed, wrap your extensions in a silk or satin scarf or use a silk pillowcase to minimize friction. For longer extensions, braid them loosely to avoid knots and tangles. Like we needed any excuse to go to slip in silk? Now that’s the princess treatment we deserve.
9. Know when it’s time for a professional
If all else fails, consider a salon visit. Professionals can perform treatments like keratin-infused deep-conditioning or even cut away damaged ends to make your extensions look fresh and new.
With these tips and a little consistency, your extensions will go from dry and dull to soft, silky, and salon-fresh. No matter the type—synthetic or human hair—you’ve got the tools and products to keep them looking better for longer.
Preventative care—How to keep your extensions soft long-term
Once your extensions are silky smooth again, the goal is to maintain their softness for as long as possible. After all, extensions are an investment, and proper upkeep makes sure you get your money’s worth. Incorporate these preventative care tips into your routine to avoid the dreaded dry, straw-like texture in the future.
1. Wash, but don’t overdo it
Your extensions don’t love a daily shower as much as you do. Wash human hair every 10–15 wears and synthetic ones every 15–20.
2. Hydration is the name of the game
Keep those strands soft and silky with a leave-in conditioner or hydration spray. Human hair? Go for lightweight faves like OUAI. Synthetic? Stick to sprays made just for them, like HairUWear.
3. Sulfates and alcohol? Absolutely not
Extensions deserve better than harsh products. Swap in sulfate- and alcohol-free shampoos for synthetic ones. Shine on, queen.
4. Brush like a pro, not a maniac
Tangles? We don’t know her. Use a loop or detangling brush and start from the ends. Bonus: a spritz of detangler makes brushing feel so luxe.
5. Cool it with the heat tools
Extensions and hot tools? A risky relationship. Use heat sparingly, always with a protectant (Kenra Platinum, we see you). No-heat styles like braids are your BFFs.
6. Moisture is everything
For human hair, weekly deep conditioning is a must. Overnight oil treatments? Even better. Synthetic extensions? A fiber-friendly conditioning spray works wonders.
7. Guard them against the elements
Sun, wind, chlorine—extensions hate them all. UV sprays, wide-brim hats, and a quick rinse post-swim will keep them looking fab longer.
8. Nighttime TLC is non-negotiable
Silk pillowcases, loose braids, or a satin scarf = happy extensions. Friction at night? Big no.
9. Switch it up
Wear extensions daily? Treat yourself to a backup set. Rotating them gives each set a little R&R—and less wear and tear.
Key takeaway—A simple routine to revive your extensions
- Gentle wash: use a moisturizing, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your extensions without stripping moisture. Focus on the ends, where dryness loves to sneak in.
- Deep conditioning: apply a rich conditioner or mask to the mid-lengths and ends. Let it soak in for 5–10 minutes for maximum hydration. For synthetic extensions, stick to lightweight, fiber-safe conditioners.
- Detangle gently: after conditioning, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to ease out knots. Start at the tips and work upward—no harsh tugging allowed!
- Hydrate with leave-in: finish with a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing mist to lock in hydration and banish frizz. Bonus points for products with nourishing oils.
- Dry with care: gently pat extensions with a towel—don’t rub! Air-drying is best, but if you’re in a rush, blow-dry on low heat with a heat protectant.
- Add nourishing oils: once dry, work a little nourishing oil or serum through the ends for shine and smoothness. It’s the cherry on top of a polished look.
- Style gently: try heat-free styles like braids or twists for damage-free glam. If heat is a must, always prep with a protectant spray to keep your extensions happy.
Your extensions may look down, but they're never out
You’ve invested in high-quality hair, and with the right TLC, they’ll keep slaying for the long haul. Conditioner? That’s your ride-or-die—think of it like the duct tape of the hair world, smoothing out dryness and frizz like a pro. A little care goes a long way, so don’t give up on them just yet. Show your extensions some love, and they’ll reward you with endless good hair days. Because, babe, you deserve to rock those flawless locks every single time.
