Shampooing and styling
Shampooing of artificial hair integrations can be as easy as shampooing real hair, with some considerations. For instance, many manufacturers suggest using a mild shampoo, or even a wig shampoo.
Directions included with the integrations may indicate what type of shampoo to use; the methods of brushing, combing and drying that are most advisable; and what heat setting to use when drying the hair, or if it is even advisable to do so.
Most human hair extensions can be treated as real hair, albeit more gently. Since human hair extensions are usually heavily processed to achieve uniform color and texture, a mild shampoo is recommended, along with a light conditioner to reduce tangling. Cool water is recommended when shampooing, to reduce or prevent matting and excessive tangling. Having to remove snarls and tangles loosens the foundation of the integrations and further damages the hair.
The same care taken when shampooing must also be used when styling artificial hair. It's often recommended that the texture of hair purchased should be the style in which the hair is worn. Using heat to straighten curly hair, or to curl straight hair, damages it. The more damage the hair sustains, the shorter the lifespan of the artificial hair.
Synthetic hair, and blends of synthetic hair and human hair, should be treated extremely gently when it comes to heat styling. Many times it is completely inadvisable. Depending on the type of synthetic fiber, heat processing is possible at an extremely low heat. However, most synthetics will melt, burn or warp when subjected to the heat of a curling iron, flat iron, or blow-dryer. Some companies do manufacture more resistant, human-like hair that can be heat processed.
Keep them moisturized, especially when you style extensions often. When your extensions are dry, comb a little bit of leave-in conditioner evenly. Don't overdo it because they'll become greasy easier than your natural locks
Make extensions tangle-free. Never untangle dry extensions with a comb. Soak them in cool water and untangle with a wide tooth comb. If absolutely necessary, you can brush out tangles in dry hair, but never use a comb.
Taking care of your hair extensions will not give you a lot of extra work. Here are just a few tips that will help to keep your extensions and your hair in a better condition.
First of all follow the instructions given to you by your stylist.
Washing: Keep your hair clean. Hair tangles when dirt and sweat build up, wash your hair after exercise, swimming etc. Brush your hair and remove all tangles before washing it. Wash your hair going in a downward motion. Use a good quality shampoo, your stylist can advise you what product is best for your hair. When lots of water is added at once to very dry hair, hair can swell up and tangle. Gradually wet the hair and brush gently before you completely wash it. This is more common with less expensive extension hair.
Styling: When brushing use a soft bristle brush, start at the ends of your hair and gently work your way up. Always brush in a downward motion. Do not brush harshly. Brush your hair 2 or 3 times a day. Heat is your one of your hair's biggest enemy, the more you use it, the shorter your hair extensions will last. Be careful with the use of blowdryers and curling irons. It is best to let your hair dry naturally.
Exercise: Wear a cap when swimming or keep your hair out of the water. Chlorine and salt water can cause the hair to tangle and mat up. It is recommended to wear your hair up or in a ponytail when you swim or exercise
Sleeping: Never sleep on wet hair, make sure your hair is completely dry before you go to bed. It is also recommended to wrap your hair together or gently tie it up to prevent tangling.
Hair care products: Use a good (leave-in) conditioner to keep your hair soft. Don't over do it. To much conditioner or any other hair care product can cause a build up and tangling. Avoid hair products that contain alcohol. Alcohol makes hair dry. Ask your stylist what would be the best products for your hair.
Hair treatments: Don't perm, color or any other chemical process to your own hair extensions. Let your stylist take care of that.
In general it is better not to brush synthetic hair and keep this hair away from all sources of excessive heat.
ProHair synthetic hair extensions can be brushed in exactly the same way as one would brush the natural hair but it is essential that the correct type of soft bristle brush is used and ProHair Daily Conditioning Spray.
Your stylist knows your hair type, ask him what is best for you
and how to take care of your hair extensions.
It is very important to do some research before you have your hair extension done. Some extensions will be better for you than others. Some salons and stylists are better trained and more experienced than others. In general you get what you pay for. Hair extension prices vary by salon and method, they are not cheap.