While hair extensions can make your hair look virtually flawless, it doesn’t mean that they don’t come with some risks. Even the safer options like clip-ins and tape-ins can cause a bit of damage over time, and even more so for long-lasting extensions that tug, snag, and heat.
If you’re saying sayonara to your extensions for a bit and notice some damage, you need to know how to repair that mane, girl. And don’t worry – just because your hair might be damaged, it doesn’t mean you’re destined for a lifelong journey of horrid hair.
Nope! Instead, follow these simple remedies to repair your mane after hair extensions.
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Consider Hair Treatments
Girl, I know you’re doing some face masks at home. Who isn’t? Well, if you’ve never dipped your toes into the world of hair masks, you’re really missing out. Hair masks can work wonders at repairing damaged locks – just like a face mask can knock out acne and dry skin in a flash.
Now, you have lots of options when it comes to hair treatments. You can buy professional products, like the Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep Conditioner By Arvazallia (recommended beyond belief), or create your DIY hair mask.
Here are a few faves:
- Coconut oil – Are you a fan of coconut oil like me? This nifty oil can do basically anything, including taking care of your damaged ‘do. To use coconut oil, simply slather it on your mane and wrap your hair in a towel. Leave for an hour and rinse!
- Milk and honey – No, this isn’t going in your tea; it’s going in your mane, mama. These two ingredients are a powerhouse for repairing damaged locks thanks to the keratin, protein, anti-inflammatory properties, B12, and so much more.
- Banana and olive oil – Of course, you probably know that olive oil works wonders on hair. Combined with banana, it becomes a hair mask straight from heaven. This mask promotes repair with hydration, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
No Heat, Hon
I know, I know – you love curling and straightening your hair. But sweetie, heat is no good for your mane, especially soon after having your hair extensions removed. If you’re struggling with damaged hair, keep the hot tools under the sink for a while to avoid further damage.
When you’re ready to bring back the heat, spritz your hair with a heat protectant such as the HSI PROFESSIONAL Argan Oil Heat Protector. This way, you can feel confident styling without harm.
Take Supplements for Hair
Nutrition is key when it comes to your hair health. Even if you are struggling with damage specifically related to hair extensions, adding supplements to your (healthy) diet can certainly help repair those strands, girl.
So what should you look for when finding the right hair supplements? Well, collagen and hyaluronic acid are always a plus. Silk proteins can also work wonders at controlling damage before, during, and after hair extensions.
That said, it’s best to get on a good supplement before thinking about hair extensions. If it’s too late, don’t worry. You can start a regime after hair extensions, too. The Dr. Emil Nutrition Multi Collagen Plus Pills is a great choice that works wonders on your hair and other parts of the body, too.
Don’t Forget to Treat Your Scalp, Too
If you wore extensions such as a weave, microbeads, or any other type that can cause tugging and pulling, your scalp likely isn’t too happy with you. How can you make your scalp your BFF once more? The answer is simple: take care of her, and she will take care of you.
But how? Scalp treatments are essential. With all of the weight and pulling, your scalp might feel a little tense and inflamed. Your hair follicles might also be struggling with pressure-related injury. To combat this, perform a scalp treatment weekly during and after extensions.
A successful scalp treatment can be done with coconut oil or aloe vera gel, which are two items you likely own already. Simply rub them into your scalp and let it sit overnight, if possible. Then rinse.
You can also use commercial products such as the AROMATICA Rosemary Root Enhancer. This ‘enhancer’ promotes health and hair growth, two things you’re going to need after hair extensions.
Condition Regularly
Girl, please, don’t forget the conditioner. You should be using a conditioner all the time, but especially after having your hair extensions removed. Use a high-end, reliable product designed for healing, such as the Redken Extreme Conditioner.
While you’re at it, use a sulfate-free shampoo that’s great for hair health, too, like the PURA D’OR Original Gold Label Anti-Thinning Biotin Shampoo.
Final Thoughts
Hair extensions can sometimes cause damage, but now you don’t have to worry. As long as you perform hair and scalp masks regularly, your hair should replenish in no time. Supplements, conditioner, and avoiding hot tools is also recommended for a swifter recovery.
Amy Alger
Thank you! I have had really thin and balding due to having psoriasis. I had the money and always dreamed of getting the extensions. So I did, but feel I went the wrong way. I got a weave put in and never felt so pretty my whole life more than that day! sad to say but I felt that I was the Mrs. America! at a price but didn’t care! well 8 months later after all the visits to get them push up repair or replace. I could not afford it anymore so I slowly took them out, wrong choice lost lots of hair but seat with even thinner hair than when i started, but don’t care would do it again! I can’t wear too much conditioner or it becomes really oily. What other stuff could I use? is dry shampoo still good? thanks for all the info and happy holidays and health!
Michelle
Hi Amy, Have you tried using hair treatments, such as a commercial or DIY hair mask? Also, if you’re struggling with oil, you can limit conditioner to the mid-shaft of your hair and below. Dry shampoo can be great for dealing with a greasy scalp and hair, especially since you should limit hair washing to two or three times per week. Avoid using products containing silicone and seek out shampoo, conditioner, and other hair care items designed for “oily hair.” Hope this helps!