How to care for tape-in hair extensions between salon appointments
Salon visits every 6-8 weeks keep your Kitsilano hair extensions looking their best. But what should you or shouldn’t you do in between appointments? Generally speaking, the focus is on protecting the adhesive, so you really want to keep them dry, oil-free, and stress-free as much as you can. Here’s what that looks like in your everyday haircare routine.
Kitsilano hair extensions daily care
Wait 24-48 hours to wash hair after getting extensions
Use a sulphate-free shampoo
Condition hair starting mid-length and working down
Air dry or blow dry on low setting
Use a brush made for extensions
Detangle often
Avoid tight hairstyles and clips
Loosely braid over night
Keep masques, gloss, serum, oils away from tape
Wait 1-2 days after having tapes applied before washing. Your stylist will advise you on the appropriate timeframe depending on the particular tapes you have.
Washing
Use a sulphate-free shampoo. Ideally choose a salon-grade shampoo created for hair extensions. Detangle hair first, starting at the ends but avoiding the adhesives. Stay upright at all times so as not to strain the adhesive. Gently work shampoo into the scalp without using nails or scrubbing. Rinse clean.
Conditioning
Use a hydrating conditioner starting at mid-length and condition to the ends. Rinse.
Drying
Pat with a towel and avoid rubbing. Air dry or blow dry on a low heat setting. If using heat, apply a heat protectant on the hair, being careful not to get any on the adhesive.
Brushing
Use a special brush made for extensions. Start at the ends and support the roots/tapes. Brush at least twice a day to keep tangles light and manageable. This becomes especially important the longer the hair extensions have been in because hair grow-out over time makes them looser.
Styling
Avoid tight hair styles and hard hair accessories. Style gently and avoid anything that pulls or strains the tapes.
Overnight
Ensure your hair is thoroughly dry. Brush to detangle, then style in a loose ponytail or braid. Sleep on a silk or statin pillowcase to reduce friction.
In general
Keep masques, gloss, serums, heavy hair oils and leave-in conditioner completely away from the areas where the tape tabs join. Be careful not to touch your extensions if you have lotion or sunscreen on your hands. Dry your roots and tape area anytime they get wet (washing, swimming, sweating, etc.)
See your stylist in 6-8 weeks for maintenance to move up or replace tapes as needed.
Rush Salon is located at 2652 Arbutus st. in beautiful Kitsilano. Get the hair you’ve always wanted with hair extensions. Talk to us to see what’s possible for your hair! 778-379-9505