Taking care of hair extensions is important to maintain their longevity, quality, and appearance. Here’s a list of what NOT to dowith your hair extensions to avoid damage or premature wear:

1. Don’t Wash Extensions Too Often

• Why: Washing your hair extensions too frequently can strip them of moisture and cause them to become dry, brittle, or tangled.
• What to Do: Wash your extensions only when necessary—generally after 10–15 wears or when they look greasy or dirty.

2. Don’t Apply Conditioner to the Roots or Tape/Bond Area

• Why: Applying conditioner near the roots or adhesive area can weaken the bonds, causing extensions to slip or loosen.
• What to Do: Use conditioner from mid-lengths to ends and avoid applying it to the weft or bond area.

3. Don’t Use Sulfate-Based Shampoos

• Why: Sulfates can strip the natural oils from both your natural hair and extensions, causing them to become dry, frizzy, and prone to tangling.
• What to Do: Use sulfate-free shampoos to preserve moisture, softness, and color.

4. Don’t Brush Wet Hair Extensions

• Why: Wet hair is more fragile and prone to breakage. Brushing wet extensions can cause them to snap or pull out.
• What to Do: Let your hair air dry or use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle, starting at the ends and working upwards.

5. Don’t Use Excessive Heat

• Why: Heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage the extensions, especially if they’re not human hair.
• What to Do: If your extensions are made of human hair, always use a heat protectant and limit the use of hot tools. Avoid using heat on synthetic extensions altogether.

6. Don’t Sleep with Wet Hair Extensions

• Why: Wet extensions are more susceptible to tangling, breakage, and damage.
• What to Do: Make sure your extensions are completely dry before going to bed. You can braid or twist your hair to minimize tangling overnight.

7. Don’t Expose Extensions to Chlorine or Saltwater

• Why: Chlorine and saltwater can dry out hair extensions, causing them to lose their softness and shine, especially if the hair is human.
• What to Do: If you swim, protect your extensions by tying your hair up or wearing a swim cap. Alternatively, rinse your hair with fresh water before swimming to reduce the effect of chlorine and saltwater.

8. Don’t Pull or Tug on Extensions

• Why: Pulling or tugging at your extensions, especially near the roots, can damage the hair or loosen the bonds, leading to premature wear.
• What to Do: Be gentle when brushing, styling, and handling your extensions. Always detangle carefully, and avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair.

9. Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance

• Why: Extensions, especially tape-ins or sew-ins, need to be adjusted or repositioned periodically as your natural hair grows.
• What to Do: Visit a stylist for regular maintenance and repositioning (typically every 6–8 weeks) to avoid stressing your natural hair.

10. Don’t Use Heavy Oils or Greasy Products

• Why: Products with heavy oils can weigh down the extensions and make them look greasy or limp. They can also weaken adhesive bonds, causing the extensions to slip.
• What to Do: Use lightweight serums, sprays, or leave-in conditioners that won’t make your extensions feel greasy.

11. Don’t Wash Extensions in Hot Water

• Why: Hot water can damage hair extensions, especially if they’re made of synthetic fibers, and may cause them to lose their shape or curl.
• What to Do: Wash hair extensions with lukewarm or cold water to maintain their integrity.

12. Don’t Leave Extensions Exposed to Direct Sunlight

• Why: Prolonged exposure to the sun can fade the color of your extensions and cause them to become dry and brittle.
• What to Do: Keep your extensions protected from excessive sun exposure, especially if they’re color-treated.

13. Don’t Try to Remove Extensions Yourself

• Why: Removing extensions improperly, especially tape-ins or sew-ins, can damage both your natural hair and the extensions.
• What to Do: Always have your extensions professionally removed by a stylist to prevent damage.

14. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals

• Why: Hair extensions, especially human hair, can be damaged by harsh chemicals such as bleach, perms, or strong hair dyes.
• What to Do: If you want to color your extensions, always seek a professional stylist’s advice and use safe, extension-friendly dyes.

15. Don’t Overload with Products

• Why: Overloading your extensions with too many styling products can make them feel heavy, greasy, or weighed down, and may cause buildup on the wefts.
• What to Do: Use minimal product on your extensions. Opt for light sprays or creams and avoid overly heavy formulations.

By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your hair extensions, keeping them looking natural and healthy. Always treat your extensions with care, and if in doubt, consult with a professional stylist.