The First 48 Hours: Setting the Foundation
What you do immediately after getting extensions makes a huge difference to how long they last. The bonds (tape, keratin, nano rings) need time to fully set and cure.
First 48 Hours Checklist
- ⛔ Don't wash hair — let bonds fully cure
- ⛔ Avoid swimming, saunas, and steam rooms
- ⛔ Don't tie hair up in a tight ponytail or bun
- ✅ Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase
- ✅ Gently brush with an extension-safe brush twice daily
- ✅ Keep hands away from bonds (don't touch tape or keratin tips)
How to Wash Extensions Correctly
Washing extensions is where most clients go wrong. Too often, the wrong products or techniques cause matting at the roots — the #1 cause of early extension removal.
Do
- ✓ Use sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoo
- ✓ Wash in a downward motion — never scrub up
- ✓ Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends only
- ✓ Pat dry with a microfibre towel
- ✓ Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb while damp
- ✓ Apply heat protection before any styling
Don't
- ✗ Don't use regular supermarket shampoo (too harsh)
- ✗ Don't massage the scalp near bonds vigorously
- ✗ Don't apply conditioner near tape or keratin bonds
- ✗ Don't wring or twist extensions when drying
- ✗ Don't use a regular hairbrush on wet extensions
- ✗ Don't sleep with wet hair — always dry first
Sleeping with Hair Extensions
Extensions rub against your pillow all night, causing friction that leads to tangling and matting. A few simple changes can prevent this entirely.
- 💤Silk or satin pillowcaseReduces friction by up to 75% compared to cotton. The single most impactful change.
- 💤Tie hair in a loose, low braid or ponytailKeeps extensions contained and prevents them from shifting under your head.
- 💤Loose top knot (if comfortable)Works well for longer clip-in wearers. Use a silk scrunchie, never elastic bands.
- 💤Brush before bedUse an extension brush to gently detangle any knots before sleeping.
The Right Way to Brush Extensions
Always use a brush specifically designed for extensions — usually a loop brush or a detangling comb with ball-tipped bristles. Standard brushes can pull out hair and damage bonds.
Brushing Technique
- 1Start from the ends — never the roots
- 2Work in small sections, holding the bond firmly with one hand
- 3Gently work out tangles from ends upward
- 4Brush at least twice daily: morning and before bed
- 5Never brush when hair is soaking wet — pat dry first
Recommended Aftercare Products
Using the right products can double the lifespan of your extensions. We stock a curated range of salon-grade aftercare products, all extension-safe and tested.
Extension-Safe Shampoo
Sulfate-free, pH-balanced formula designed for bonded and taped extensions
From £12Deep Conditioner
Intensive moisture treatment for dry or colour-treated extension hair
From £14Detangling Spray
Lightweight detangling formula that prevents matting without weighing hair down
From £10Extension-Safe Brush
Ball-tipped loop bristles, designed for gentle daily detangling
From £8Heat Protection Spray
Thermal protection up to 230°C — essential for any heat styling
From £12Silk Scrunchies (x3)
Gentle on extensions, prevents creasing and pulling
From £9Salon Maintenance Schedule
For professional extensions (tape-in, keratin, nano ring), clients should return to the salon at regular intervals for maintenance.
| Extension Type | Re-tightening | Full Removal/Replace |
|---|---|---|
| Tape-In | Every 4–6 weeks | Every 3–4 months |
| K-Tip / Keratin Bond | Every 6–8 weeks | Every 4–6 months |
| Nano Ring | Every 6–8 weeks | Every 4–6 months |
| Weft (Sewn-in) | Every 6–8 weeks | Every 3–4 months |
| Clip-In | N/A — self-service | Replace every 12–24 months |
Stock the Right Aftercare Products
Offer your clients salon-grade aftercare products. Wholesale pricing available for trade accounts — order today.