How to care for hand-tied extensions

Brush with support, not force

Use the brush and technique recommended by your extension artist. Support the attachment area with one hand, begin at the ends, and work upward in sections instead of pulling through from the root.

• Brush gently and consistently so small tangles do not become matting.
• Separate rows as directed by your artist.
• Stop and contact the salon if an attachment feels loose, painful, or unusually tangled.

Wash the scalp and protect the attachments

Detangle before showering, wash in an upright position, and focus shampoo on the scalp without scrubbing attachment points in circles. Rinse thoroughly so product does not sit between rows.

• Use salon-approved cleanser and conditioner for your hair and method.
• Keep rich conditioner, masks, and oils away from attachment points unless your artist directs otherwise.
• Do not flip the hair upside down to wash if that creates tangling around the rows.

Dry completely before sleep

Pat the hair with a soft towel rather than twisting it. Dry the attachment areas thoroughly and make sure the full head is dry before bed. Sleeping with damp extensions increases the risk of tangling and matting.

• Use heat protectant before blow-drying or hot tools.
• Keep direct high heat away from attachment points.
• Wear a loose braid or low ponytail with a soft tie at night if your artist recommends it.

Plan for pools, workouts, and travel

Sweat, salt water, chlorine, sunscreen, and wind can all change how the hair behaves. Prepare before exposure, secure the hair to reduce tangling, and cleanse and dry it afterward rather than letting residue sit.

• Ask your artist which protective products are compatible with your method.
• Keep sunscreen and oily products away from attachment points.
• Pack the brush, ties, cleanser, conditioner, and heat protection you already know work.

Do not stretch maintenance

Your maintenance timing depends on the method, growth, density, lifestyle, and home care. Waiting far beyond the recommended window can increase tangling, strain, and the amount of work needed at the next visit.

Contact the salon early if you notice slipping, unusual shedding, scalp irritation, matting, separation, or a color concern. Small issues are easier to address before they become larger ones.