Hair extensions can last between 4 weeks to 2 years depending on their quality, the installation technique, and aftercare – both at home and in the salon. However, one small mistake in the way they’re applied or how you maintain them – could drastically shorten their lifespan, putting your investment (and hair) at risk. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about caring for different hair extensions to increase their longevity.
Factors That Affect The Durability of Hair Extensions
The durability of your hair extensions isn’t just about the type you choose several factors influence how long they’ll last. The 3 main factors that influence longevity are;
- Quality of hair (Virgin vs Remy)
- Installation Technique (Fusion, Tape-in, clip-in, or sew-ins?)
- Maintenance Routine (Washing, brushing, and salon visits)
Each of these factors can either extend or shorten the life of your extensions.
Fusion/Pre-Bonded Hair Extensions (6 – 24 months)
Fusion hair extensions come in 2 main varieties – hot and cold fusions.
Hot fusion extensions (also known as keratin bond k-tips or glue-in extensions) are installed using a special connector iron. This tool melts the k-bonds of extensions into your natural hair strand, fusing them together.
On the other hand, cold fusion extensions allow heat-less installation. Your stylist would weave small strands of your hair into a narrow cylinder and then slide the hair extension inside the cylinder while compressing and gently pushing it close to your scalp. This method ensures minimum stress and damage to natural hair since there’s no heating or gluing.
How long do Fusion extensions last?
Hot fusion extensions can last from 6 months to 2 years with proper care. Your stylist will need to touch them up around the 3-month mark since that is when these tend to slip.
How to take care of Fusion extensions?
With regular touch-up maintenance every 2-4 months, your stylist will be able to reapply and fix any issues and recommend changes to your routine or products to extend the life of your extensions.
Other than that, keep them well brushed, and do not overdo anything. This means you don’t have to necessarily splurge on Olaplex kind of products. Simply shampooing 2x a week, using a hair mask no more than once every 2 weeks, and oiling the ends every 2 nights works pretty well!
- Dos
- Avoid exposure to high-heat situations.
- Get them re-bonded/reapplied every 2-4 months (so book your appointment ahead of time).
- Put your hair in pigtails or a ponytail to sleep to relieve any pain or tugging sensations.
- Use satin/silk caps/pillowcases to avoid friction while sleeping.
- Use alcohol and sulphate-free products, as they won’t damage the keratin glue of your extensions.
- Wash your hair with care, especially around the extensions.
- Allow your hair some extra time for styling and drying after a shower, as excessive heat damages the bonds, and drying aggressively can also lead to shedding.
- Use argan (or anything other gentle, diluted) oil for the ends every 1-2 nights.
- Always rinse your hair after swimming in the ocean or the pool.
- Donts
- Try to remove them at home.
- Rub your hair too hard while washing or brushing.
- Use oil-based and sulphate-containing shampoos as they can weaken the keratin bonds.
- Go to bed with your hair wet, as the water can damage the glue.
- Wash your hair separately – by flipping it upside down.
- Wash and dry your hair every day, thinking this will extend the life of your hair extensions.
- Use hot tools without heat protectants. This will dry and cause thermal damage to your extensions and hair.
How to remove Fusion hair extensions?
Improper removal of fusion hair extensions can harm your hair and scalp. It’s essential to have a professional handle the process, whether it was applied using hot or cold fusion, and avoid attempting it yourself at home.
Tape In Hair Extensions (4-8 Weeks)
Tape-in hair extensions are wefts of hair attached to your natural hair using adhesive bands. The sticky tabs on these wefts are protected by paper tabs, which are peeled off just before attaching the extensions. To begin, the right amount of hair must be sectioned off. One piece of the adhesive weft is placed underneath your hair, while the other goes on top, essentially “sandwiching” your natural hair in between.
How long do Tape-in hair extensions last?
Tape-in hair extensions can last around 4 – 8 weeks. The initial installation process typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes. After that, maintenance is required almost every 4 weeks, depending on how well you care for your extensions.
