New year, new you? You may be entering the new year with plans to improve your mind, body and soul but how does exercise affect your beautiful Bella Nude tresses, and what can you do to look after them when you work out?
So, if you are planning on hitting the gym it is always advisable to tie your hair back to prevent tangling. Additionally, you could consider using a sweatband to minimise exposure to sweat, which can affect the extensions.
Does sweat ruin tape in hair extensions?
Sweat itself may not necessarily ruin tape-in hair extensions, but the salt and oils in sweat can contribute to a less favourable environment for them. It’s advisable to tie your hair up during workouts to minimize contact with sweat and regularly wash and care for both your natural hair and extensions to maintain their health and longevity.
Post workout, rinse your hair and extensions with clean water to remove any sweat or residue. Regular maintenance, gentle handling, and avoiding excessive heat can help preserve the quality of your hair extensions.
More of a water baby? How can you look after your extensions when swimming?
Swimming, especially in chlorinated or salty water, can have a negative impact on hair extensions. The chemicals in pools or saltwater can strip moisture from the extensions, leading to dryness, tangling, and potential damage. It’s recommended to take precautions like wearing a swim cap and rinsing the extensions with clean water after swimming to minimize the impact.
Does chlorine ruin extensions?
Chlorine can be harsh on hair extensions, potentially causing them to become dry, brittle, or discoloured. It’s advisable to protect your extensions by keeping them away from chlorinated water or again, using a swim cap. Look for a long hair swim cap that you can comfortably fit all your hair into. After swimming, rinse your hair and extensions thoroughly with clean water and apply a leave-in conditioner to help maintain their quality.
We all know the best bit about the gym is the sauna afterwards! But how can you maintain your extensions in that heat? Can you even go in a steam room with hair extensions?
It’s generally recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to steam, regardless of the hair extension method. Heat and moisture can affect the adhesive and overall health of the extensions. If you choose to go into a steam room, take precautions such as keeping your hair away from direct contact with steam and ensuring thorough drying and care afterward to minimize potential damage, regardless of the extension method you have.
Overview
Hair extension aftercare doesn’t have to stop you doing the things you love but involves a little gentle maintenance to keep your extensions in tip top condition.
Here are some general tips:
1. **Brushing:** Use a soft-bristle brush to detangle your hair extensions, starting from the tips and gradually moving upward to prevent breakage.
2. **Washing:** Wash your hair and extensions with a sulfate-free, extension-friendly shampoo. Be gentle and avoid rubbing or tangling while washing.
3. **Conditioning:** Apply a conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your extensions, avoiding the roots. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the conditioner evenly.
4. **Drying:** Air-dry your extensions whenever possible. If using heat, use a low-heat setting to avoid damage. Always detangle before drying.
5. **Styling:** Limit the use of heat styling tools, and when using them, apply a heat protectant. Avoid pulling or tugging on the extensions during styling.
6. **Sleeping:** Tie your hair in a loose braid or ponytail before sleeping to prevent tangling. Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.
7. **Regular Check-ups:** Visit your stylist for maintenance appointments as recommended. This may involve repositioning, tightening, or replacing extensions as needed.
Remember to follow any specific care instructions provided by your stylist based on the type of extensions you have.
To maintain the health and longevity of your hair extensions, follow these aftercare tips:
1. **Gentle Washing:** Use a sulfate-free, extension-friendly shampoo and conditioner. Gently wash your hair in a downward motion, avoiding excessive rubbing or tangling.
2. **Detangling:** Comb your hair and extensions with a wide-toothed comb, starting from the ends and working your way up. Hold the roots to avoid pulling on the bonds.
3. **Avoid Heat Damage:** Minimize the use of heat styling tools, and when necessary, use a heat protectant. Excessive heat can weaken the bonds and affect the extensions’ quality.
4. **Secure During Sleep:** Tie your hair in a loose braid or ponytail before bedtime to prevent tangling. Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.
5. **Regular Maintenance:** Schedule regular check-ins with your stylist for adjustments and maintenance. This ensures the extensions stay secure and healthy.
6. **Protect from Chlorine and Saltwater:** If swimming, wear a swim cap, and rinse your hair and extensions immediately after exposure to chlorinated or saltwater.
7. **Avoid Products with Alcohol:** Haircare products containing alcohol can dry out the extensions. Opt for alcohol-free products to maintain moisture.
8. **Mindful Brushing:** Be gentle when brushing, especially around the bonds. Hold the roots while brushing to prevent pulling.
9. **Professional Removal:** When it’s time to remove the extensions, seek professional assistance to avoid damaging your natural hair.
10. **Hydration:** Keep your natural hair and extensions hydrated with occasional deep conditioning treatments.
By following these aftercare tips, you can ensure that your hair extensions remain healthy, natural-looking, and last longer.
