Tips on Sew-In Hair Extension Maintenance

Enhancing your natural beauty with sew-in hair extensions is a fantastic and versatile option! However, to keep them looking fabulous, proper care and attention are essential. At Cliphair, we're dedicated to providing you with the best guidance and support. In this guide, we’ll cover essential maintenance tips, including washing and conditioning techniques, regular maintenance routines, and the best products to use for your extensions. 

Understanding Sew-In Extensions

First things first, what are sew-in extensions? Sew-in hair extensions, also known as wefts or weave extensions, including the famous ‘LA weave,’ are a type of hair extension that can be applied using various methods. Their versatility makes them one of the most popular hair extension choices worldwide. 

According to industry surveys, over 90% of extension wearers report that regular maintenance significantly extends the lifespan of their extensions, often by 2-3 months longer than neglected ones. That’s why it's vital to give your sew-ins the extra care they need to stay tangle-free, shiny, and full of life!  

Washing and Conditioning 

Washing Technique

Proper washing is crucial to maintain the longevity and beauty of your sew-in hair extensions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you wash your extensions effectively: 

1. Detangle Before Washing: Start by gently detangling your hair with our Detangling Hairbrush designed for extensions. This helps prevent tangling during washing. 
2. Prepare Your Hair: Wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the hair and weaken the bonds of the extensions. 
3. Apply Shampoo: Use our sulphate and paraben-free, extension-friendly Deep Moisture Shampoo. Apply the shampoo gently to your scalp, focusing on the roots. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the hair aggressively. Let the shampoo naturally run down the length of the extensions. 
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring all shampoo is washed out. Residual shampoo can cause buildup and tangling. 
5. Condition with Care: Apply our lightweight, Deep Moisture Conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair. Avoid the roots to prevent loosening the weave. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the hair shaft. 
6. Final Rinse: Rinse your hair completely with warm water and finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticles and add shine. 
7. Pat Dry: Gently pat your hair dry with a microfibre towel. Avoid rubbing your hair with the towel to prevent frizz and damage. 
8. Always Dry Your Weave: As weaves/wefts are made from a thick band of hair, they need to be fully dried after every wash to prevent bacteria from forming which can cause irritation or odour. 

Conditioning Tips

Conditioning is key to keeping your sewn-in extensions soft, smooth, and manageable. Here are some conditioning tips to follow: 

1. Deep Conditioning Masks: Incorporate our Deep Conditioning Hair Mask into your routine once a week. Our mask provides intense hydration and repairs damage more and more with every use. Apply the mask generously to your extensions, avoiding the roots, and leave it on for at least 15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. 
2. Avoid Heavy Products: Aim to use lightweight products to prevent weighing down your extensions. Heavy products can cause buildup and make the hair look greasy and flat. 

To browse our full range of haircare and maintenance products, visit here.  

Maintenance Routine

Regular Check-Ups

Scheduling regular check-ups with your hairstylist is essential for maintaining the integrity and appearance of your sewn-in hair extensions. Here’s why: 

1. Professional Assessment: A hairstylist can assess the condition of your extensions and make necessary adjustments to ensure they remain comfortable and secure. 
2. Tightening and Repositioning: Extensions will loosen over time as your own hair grows. Regular check-ups allow your stylist to tighten and reposition them, preventing them from slipping or causing discomfort on your scalp. 
3. Health of Natural Hair: Your stylist can monitor the health of your natural hair and scalp, ensuring that the extensions are not causing any damage or stress

Extension-Friendly Products

1. Styling Products: Use lightweight, non-greasy styling products. Serums and oils should be used sparingly and applied only to the ends to avoid buildup near the roots. If you’re unsure how to make the most out of products like hair oil for your extensions, you can take a look at our blog Hair Oil and Hair Extensions: Everything You Need to Know. 
2. Heat Protectants: If you use heat styling tools, always apply our Heat Protection Spray to shield your extensions from damage. 

Conclusion:

Maintaining your sewn-in hair extensions requires a bit of effort, but the results are well worth it! By following proper washing and conditioning techniques, scheduling regular check-ups, and using extension-friendly products, you can keep your extensions looking stunning and natural for months on end. 

At Cliphair, we are committed to helping you achieve your hair goals. For more tips, products, and professional advice, explore our extensive range of hair care solutions on our blog section Haircare and Tips. For more tips and hair hacks, browse our Ultimate Guide to Sew-In Hair Extensions. Transform your look and keep your hair looking fabulous with Cliphair!