How To: Caring for and Maintaining Hair Extensions

Kauilani Goodwyn, a Sam Villa ambassador and textured hair expert, shares her expertise on how to preserve hair extensions.

“It’s really convenient if you have a weft extension holder. It allows you the ability to shampoo, blow dry and style your clip-ins without someone else having to hold them,” explains Goodwyn.

More of Goodwyn’s tips:

• Cleanse with moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, sulfate-free (if possible). Mizani True Textures Moisture Replenish Shampoo and Conditioner is good for clip-ins styled with a diffuser. If smoothing hair, try Mizani Press Agent Shampoo and Conditioner. 
• ABD (Always Be Detangling) while shampooing and conditioning.
• If air-drying, lay flat or hang on an extension hanger and clip where weft is seen; if in a bind, use a pant hanger. 
• If using a blowdryer, make sure to use one that has a concentrator and diffuser, like the Sam Villa Artist Series Professional Blow Dryer. Use light tension and direct airflow down the hair shaft to smooth with a concentrator, or an in-and-out motion when enhancing with a diffuser. Heat settings will vary depending on the natural reflection (consistency) of the hair. 
• Remove tangles by starting at the ends and working up to avoid damaging hair and/or dislodging it from the clip-in.
• Human hair extensions can experience heat damage, so be sure to use a light liquid leave-in that has heat-protection benefits, like Mizani 25 Miracle Milk. 
• When not in use, place clean extensions in a satin scarf or pouch.
• Never sleep with wet extensions.
• Do not sleep with clip-ins for too many nights—rubbing can cause weak spots. If it is a high pony style, it’s fine.
• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent breakage.