Maintaining Raw Hair Extensions – A Basic Hair Care Guide
Reading time: 5 mins
Having a routine is important to keep your hair healthy and to last for years to come. Creating and maintaining a hair schedule that will work best for you is key.
Choose Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for your hair texture (e.g., straight, wavy, curly). Sulfate-free products are gentle and won't strip the natural oils from the hair. Always rinse the conditioner out fully without leaving any product behind.
Deep Conditioning Treatment
Use a deep conditioning treatment every two weeks. For curly textures, consider deep conditioning once a week. This helps to replenish moisture and maintain the softness and vitality of the hair.
Gentle Detangling
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for your hair texture (e.g., straight, wavy, curly). Sulfate-free products are gentle and won't strip the natural oils from the hair. Always rinse the conditioner out fully without leaving any product behind. This will make the hair heavy.
Limit Heat Styling
Minimize the use of heat styling tools. Use them at temperatures below 450°F to avoid heat damage. Consider air drying or heatless methods like rollers to maintain curls and volume.
Avoid Excessive Product Use
Use styling products lightly, and use a leave-in to retain moisture. Overloading your extensions with products can lead to buildup, making them look dull. Opt for lightweight styling products that won't weigh down the hair.
Avoid Wetting Hair Daily
Wetting your hair daily can lead to a condition known as "hygral fatigue." Hair that experiences repeated expansion and contraction due to frequent wetting and drying will become brittle and prone to breakage, reducing the longevity of the extensions. Washing your extensions 1-2 times per week is enough to keep the hair moisturized.
Nighttime Care
Never go to bed with wet hair, as this can lead to many problems. Braid your hair or remove your unit when possible to prevent friction and tangling during sleep. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction further.
Professional Hair Coloring
Raw hair can lift to a very high 613 blonde and retain its integrity. Remember, low and slow is key when using bleach and developer.
We highly recommend consulting a professional hairdresser as they have the expertise to color the hair safely while preserving its quality. Maintain a regular schedule for treatments once hair has been chemically colored.
Professional Maintenance
Schedule regular maintenance appointments with your hairstylist to ensure your extensions are in good condition. This includes any necessary adjustments or treatments to keep your extensions looking their best. Also, seek advice from your hairstylist on how long to keep your extensions in. The priority should be to retain healthy natural hair and use extensions to enhance your appearance.
Curly Raw Hair
Curly raw hair requires a stricter maintenance schedule than other textures. Curly strands are prone to dryness, so you must co-wash and deep condition more often.
Use a Denman brush
when wet, and try not to manipulate the curls once they are dry to avoid frizz. Always use a light leave-in and a hydrating mousse or foam without alcohol, which will lead to dry, brittle hair.
Conclusion
Some people may need to wash their hair multiple times per week, while others may only need to biweekly. It all depends on your hair type and lifestyle. By creating a hair care routine that is realistic and that you can stick to, you can keep your raw extensions healthy for years to come.
Follow us on our social media for more in depth tips and video tutorials.