Hair Extensions are now the "gotta have it" of the beauty industry.  With all the publicity and exposure that has been created by this phenomenon, hair extensions are an addiction that some people (both women and men), just can't live without!  With that said, there are some very important facts about hair extensions that anyone wearing them (or those who are considering getting them), should know. 

As authentic as our extensions may look and feel, you must keep in mind that this hair is not really growing out of the scalp.  Because of this, you will have to follow a diligent daily routine to keep your extensions looking their best.  Since the hair comes attached (sewn in) to a weft, it has to be cut into individual strands that are then bonded at the tips to keep the hair together.  While this process minimizes shedding, it is not 100% shed proof so depending on the amount of heat from styling tools and other factors that it is exposed to everyday, the bond will eventually loosen and you will lose strands of hair.  It is important to keep regular maintenance appointments because of this so that the bond can be reinforced to keep the shedding to a minimum.  Shedding is a part of wearing hair extensions and unfortunately, I cannot guarantee a non-shedding solution. 

Here are some basic hair maintenance suggestions that I offer to all of my extensions clients: 

1.  The hair must be kept clean because when dirt and sweat accumulate, the hair will tangle.  Use conditioner sparingly because it creates buildup on the hair shaft causing it to tangle even more.  Please wash your hair immediately after swimming, or using a spa, or any other type of intense exercise.  

2.   Before washing your hair, always make sure you comb the tangles out.  Comb it out from the bottom to the top. 

3.   Be sure to wash and brush/finger comb your hair in one direction only and then rinse the hair completely with water and towel dry (do not rub or twist the hair).  The best way is to let it air dry or if you must blow dry it, use a medium or low heat setting.  

4.   You must brush your hair every single day (except the French Refined or curly styles that should be finger combed instead).  You can apply some leave in conditioner to keep the hair soft and to keep it from looking dry-do not use too much though, otherwise the hair becomes limp and heavy. 

5.  Braiding the hair before going to sleep keeps the tangles to a minimum.  Never sleep on wet hair because this causes matts and tangles.

6.  Do not perm, color, tint, or put your extensions through any other type of chemical process because this can damage the hair.   If you must alter the extensions, you should consult a professional to do this for you.