Synthetic hair extensions are an easy and fun option for switching up your looks. You can be adventurous with textures, colours and lengths without affecting your real hair. However, these extensions need care if they are to serve you for longer. Here’s how to do it.
Washing
Yes, synthetic hair needs to be washed to keep it in good condition. The frequency of washing depends on where and how often you wear the hair pieces, and the products you use on them.
If you use hair spray, you’ll need to wash the extensions more often- once every week or two weeks. Spray causes stiffening of the hair, and also attracts dust from the surroundings. Otherwise if you don’t use hair spray once a month is sufficient for cleaning the extensions. Use hair spray that’s specifically dedicated for synthetic hair, since regular hair spray breaks down the extensions’ fibres.
There are deodorizing sprays to reduce odours. Use these to keep your pieces from smelling musty or to refresh them last minute when you really need your extensions. Note that this doesn’t eliminate the need for washing the extensions.
To wash the pieces, use shampoo dissolved in a bowl of cool water. Soak the pieces in this water and let sit for 15 minutes. After this gently swish them in the water to make sure each strand is cleaned. Don’t rub the hairs- this makes them tangle. Squeeze out excess water gently then rinse with cold water.
Conditioning
This is important to help the synthetic fibres retain moisture. If not done your hair pieces will be stiff and lifeless upon drying. Dissolve a little conditioner in water then soak the pieces for a few minutes. Remove the pieces, squeeze gently then air dry outside. You can also add some fabric softener for extra fragrance and softness, depending on the type of extensions. Don’t wring the pieces while removing the excess water or else you’ll end up with a ‘bird’s nest’.
Storage
Make sure the extensions are completely dry after washing and conditioning. If planning to store them away for a long time, put them in a box and store in a cool, dry place.
