If you have just invested in hair extensions, one of the first questions you might ask is: can I wash hair extensions the same way I wash my own hair?

The simple answer is not exactly.

While human hair extensions can be washed, styled and treated similarly to natural hair, they do need a little extra care. This is because hair extensions do not receive natural oils from the scalp, which means they can become dry more easily if they are over washed or cared for incorrectly.

Why Hair Extensions Need Different Care

Your natural hair is constantly nourished by oils produced by your scalp. Hair extensions, even 100% human hair extensions, are no longer attached to the scalp, so they rely completely on the products and care you provide.

Over washing, harsh shampoo, too much heat and rough brushing can cause dryness, tangling and reduce the lifespan of your extensions.

How Often Should You Wash Hair Extensions?

Hair extensions generally do not need to be washed as often as your natural hair.

As a general guide, permanent hair extensions such as tape extensions, weft extensions, nano extensions and keratin bond extensions may be washed around 1 to 3 times per week, depending on your lifestyle, scalp type and product build up.

Clip in hair extensions and halo hair extensions usually only need to be washed when needed, such as after several wears or when there is noticeable product build up.

Washing hair extensions too often may dry them out faster, so it is best to only wash them when necessary.

How to Wash Hair Extensions Properly

Brush Before Washing

Always gently brush your hair extensions before washing to remove any knots or tangles. Start from the ends and slowly work your way up while supporting the hair to avoid pulling.

If you are wearing curly hair extensions, be extra gentle and avoid excessive brushing while the hair is dry.

Use Sulfate Free Products

Choose a gentle, sulfate free shampoo and conditioner suitable for hair extensions. Harsh cleansers can strip moisture from the hair and leave your extensions feeling dry.

If you wear permanent hair extensions, focus shampoo mainly on the scalp area and avoid aggressively rubbing the tapes, bonds, beads or weft seams.

Wash in a Downward Motion

Wash the hair in the direction it naturally falls. Avoid piling the hair on top of your head or scrubbing in circular motions, as this can cause tangling.

Instead, gently smooth shampoo down the hair, rinse thoroughly and apply conditioner through the mid lengths and ends.

Avoid applying conditioner directly onto tape tabs, keratin bonds, beads or attachment areas, as this may affect the hold of some extension methods.

Dry Hair Extensions Properly

After washing, gently squeeze out excess water with a towel. Avoid rubbing the hair, as this can cause frizz and tangles.

For permanent hair extensions, it is important not to leave the attachment areas wet for long periods. Blow dry the roots and attachment areas first, then dry the lengths and ends.

Sleeping with wet hair extensions is not recommended, as it may increase tangling, matting and maintenance issues.

Can You Use Purple Shampoo on Hair Extensions?

Purple shampoo may be used on some blonde hair extensions, but it should always be used with care.

Hair extensions can absorb toner differently from natural hair, so purple shampoo should not be left on for too long. Always do a strand test first and avoid overusing toning products.

Extra Tips to Make Hair Extensions Last Longer

• Brush your extensions gently and regularly using an extension friendly brush.
• Avoid excessive heat styling where possible.
• Use heat protectant before styling.
• Sleep with your hair in a loose braid or ponytail.
• Never sleep with wet hair extensions.
• Use nourishing treatments on the mid lengths and ends when needed.

So, can you wash hair extensions like normal hair? Not quite.

Human hair extensions can be washed, but they need gentler care than natural hair. Because they do not receive oils from the scalp, the right washing routine is essential for keeping them soft, smooth and long lasting.

By using gentle products, washing carefully and drying your extensions properly, you can help keep your hair extensions looking beautiful for longer.