Unlock the Secrets: Extend the Life of Your Hair Extensions Today!

You just invested in your hair and you want it to last as long as possible, I get it! 

This blog is inspired by a client who came in as a new guest to Zodiac Spa today. My heart was breaking for her. She went to another salon and got 3 rows of weft extensions and paid three times what we charge here at the Zodiac Spa Beauty & Wellness location here in Herriman, Utah, but that is not what make my heart break. The hair that had been "custom colored" did not match, the color used aged the hair, and was not executed properly to give the look the client wanted. Aside from color, the installation was done in a way that was causing traction allopecia! She was losing her natural hair and getting long term scalp and hair damage from the previous stylists negligence. That is what hurt my heart! 

The part that confused me, was that it looked like she had maybe had this hair in for a year. Not because of the grow out, that looked freshly installed and was about 2 weeks post move up when I met her, but because the hair iteself looked at least a year old. So we started just talking about home care for extensions and maintenance to see where there could be room for improvement so that this new hair we were installing (correctly), could be protected. 

How long should extension hair last? When it comes to enhancing your natural locks, hair extensions are a popular choice for adding length and volume. However, not all extension hair is created equal and as they have grown in popularity and become so widely available to consumers, the quality gap has also grown! Be sure to go with a brand like the one we carry here at Zodiac Spa that is; double drawn (sheds less, and is thicker on the ends), Intact cuticle (they inspected the hair under a microscope to ensure that the natural cuticle of the hair is not only present, but healthy), Single Donor (the hair in that package is from a single head of hair and was made from a single ponytail from the donor), Remi (cuticle is all laying the same way to minimize detangling) hair. We carry 100% natural human hair that is quality and responsibly sourced, minimally treated, and in a wide variety of colors for easy matching. Hair should last at least 6 months with an average of 12 months, although we have had a few that stretch their investment all the way to 18 months! Yes a little extra care and attention is required. 

Regular daily maintenance at home is key to prolonging the lifespan of your hair extensions, as well as scheduled regular appointments with your hairstylist for maintenance checks and move ups. At your salon move ups, potential trimming of the ends of your extensions can prevent tangles and keep them looking fresh.  Your stylist will recommend the correct products to used, but here are some general maintenance tips with product:

Invest in quality hair care products that are suitable for both your natural hair and extensions. Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to prevent drying out the extensions. Avoid products containing alcohol, as they can strip the extensions of moisture and cause them to become brittle. 

By following these simple tips and investing in proper care, you can enjoy beautiful and long-lasting hair extensions. Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way in preserving the health and vitality of your extensions.