Hair extensions are an investment. After all, the best ones don’t come cheap and, if you really want to get your money out of them and ensure your hair looks flawless every day, you need to be looking after them in the best way possible. Unlike Angelina Jolie.
Just like our own natural hair, the way in which you wash, brush and style hair extensions can have a huge impact on the way they look and feel. Whether you have clip in, tape or permanent extensions, a good hair care routine starts with a trusty shampoo and conditioner. And *spoiler alert* the shampoo that’s always on offer isn’t going to cut it…
1. What Shampoo And Conditioner Should I Use?
Think about when you go to buy a new foundation or lipstick. You don’t walk in and choose the first one you see, or the cheapest. We all have different skin tones that require different shades of makeup, we also have different scalps and hair that require different shampoos.
Start by identifying exactly what kind of scalp you have - dry and itchy or oily. If you have the former, then you should look for a shampoo that cleanses and moisturises. Those with the latter will benefit from a shampoo that has rich cleansing properties but less moisturising benefits.
Just as you think you’ve nailed it, there’s also shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for hair that’s fine, thick, straight, wavy, curly, damaged, coloured, brittle and, of course, hair extensions.
Consider your scalp type, get to know your hair and search for a shampoo and conditioner that promises to leave you with a look that Nicky Clarke would be proud of.
2. How Do I Use Shampoo And Conditioner?
Knowing which shampoo and conditioner to use is just the start when it comes to your hair care routine though. You see, it’s essential to have good tools but just as important to use the tools in the right way. If your hair wash job is done and dusted in a couple of minutes, you probably aren’t doing it right.
Start by wetting your hair with warm water - not hot. Pour a small amount of shampoo into your hands and massage into your scalp. Work it through your hair but pay the most attention to your scalp. Then it’s time to rinse your hair - but be sure to remove all soap.
When it’s time for conditioner, you want to work it into your hair but avoid your scalp. Leave it in for a few minutes and brush through. Rinse again and ensure all the water and conditioner has been removed. Finish it off by towel-drying your hair.
3. Should Shampoo And Conditioner Match?
There hasn’t been a subject matter like this that splits the haircare industry since Kim K attended the MTV awards with cornrows. Truth is, whoever you ask this question to will probably tell you something different.
While you don’t have to use the same brand of shampoo and conditioner, companies typically create them with each other in mind. So, using the same brands may give the best results as the pair will be working in harmony.
4. How Does Shampoo And Conditioner Work?
We could answer this question in four words: they clean your hair. But, instead, we want to give you a much more in-depth explanation. As a cleansing agent, shampoo contains ingredients like surfactants and detergents. These work to remove sweat, oil, dirt and build-up of other products like hairspray. Environmental pollutants are also removed.
Conditioners are made up of natural oils, botanical extracts and proteins. Together, these ingredients keep your hair soft, smooth and shiny. A thin layer is also left on your hair to protect it after washing.
5. Is It Bad To Shampoo And Conditioner Your Hair Every Day?
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to this question. The best thing to do is go off what your hair needs. Typically, most people need to wash their hair every two to three days. But, if your hair looks oily or your scalp is itchy, you probably need to wash it.
It’s important not to get into a habit of when you wash your hair though. Washing your hair every day, when it doesn’t need it, can actually cause more damage. The moral of the story is to only use shampoo and conditioner when your hair feels like it needs it.
6. What Is The Best Shampoo And Conditioner For Hair Extensions?
If you really want to look after your hair extensions, treat them in the same way you do as your natural hair. And by that, we mean look after them well - not chuck them in a top knot and hope for the best.
Before putting any products on your hair extensions, you need to check what’s in them. Some contain chemicals that could damage your extensions - that goes for shampoo, conditioner, hairspray and serums.
In terms of washing your hair extensions, technically speaking, you can wash them just as your normal hair. But, just like natural locks, washing too frequently is likely to damage them. The same can also be said for overusing heated styling tools so perhaps consider a few days each week where you go for the natural look. Otherwise, you might find yourself searching for ways to revive dry hair extensions.
In the meantime, we’ve developed the best hair extension shampoo and conditioners. You can thank us later.
7. Best Shampoo And Conditioner For Hair Extensions
Quench The Thirst: Deep Moisture Hair Care Collection
The best hair wash that you can use on your tresses, natural hair, and Remy hair extensions alike - without the shadow of a doubt, is Quench The Thirst: Deep Moisture shampoo for hair extensions. 100% sulphate-free and paraben-free, its recipe is Infused with Shea butter and Baobab seed oil. This miracle in a bottle will replenish your hair fibres with precious moisture, helping to seal the cuticles to retain it for longer, and gently cleansing your scalp and hair with a non-sticky lather. Best used with Quench The Thirst: Deep Moisture conditioner for hair extensions. You can also add the Quench The Thirst: Deep Moisture hair mask for hair extensions as a weekly, intensive hydrating treatment, and finish your styling with a spritz of our Moisturising Silky Spray for ultimate sheen, long-lasting moisture perfection, and flawless styling.
Other Shampoos For Hair Extensions
OGX Shampoo Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo
This shampoo might boast a range of ingredients including whipped egg protein but it works and hair is left nourished from the root. It’s even built up a reputation for restoring your hair’s elasticity and the scent takes us back to being on holiday. Bliss.
Shea Moisture Raw Shea Retention Shampoo
If you’re looking for sulphate-free shampoo for your extensions, this is the perfect product. Not only does it contain all-natural ingredients but it’s organic and is also free from parabens.
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo (And Conditioner)
As one of the leading colour care brands, Pureology’s shampoo is ideal if you have extensions and coloured hair. It works by deeply hydrating the follicles and contains protein-based oat, wheat and soy to rebuild damaged hair and keep it strong.
Kerastase 2 Shampoo
Rich and creamy, this shampoo restores dry natural hair and extensions back to good health and strength. Boasting a myriad of ingredients, including glucose, proteins, lipid blends and various other nutrients, it’s strong enough to build your hair up but gentle enough to be used every day. Even better, it’s free from sulfate and parabens and is 100% cruelty-free.
Conditioners For Hair Extensions
Toni & Guy Smooth Definition Conditioner
Say hello to frizz-free locks and revitalise dry and damaged hair with this wonder product. Designed to be left in for two minutes, this conditioner locks in moisture and banishes dullness.
Tresemme Luxurious Moisture Conditioner
This condition gives you salon-quality results, at home, on a budget. Packed full of Vitamin E, it nourishes and moisturises your hair, without weighing it down. It’s also super gentle on even the finest of locks and leaves an enviable shine.
Kerastase Reflection Fondant Chromatique Conditioner
Again designed with coloured hair in mind, this deep conditioner for hair extensions will give your hair a natural boost and enhance its vibrancy. It’s packed with Vitamin E and UV filters and leaves real hair, and extensions, shiny, soft and smooth. If you’re looking to dye your hair extensions, this conditioner is also a great one to have in your bathroom cabinet.
Looking for the perfect shampoo and conditioner for your hair extensions? Or maybe you’re in search of sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner for hair extensions?
Either way, we have a huge selection of extensions, hair care and accessories to help take your mane to the next level. From Argan Oil shampoo and conditioner and coconut shampoo and conditioner to shea shampoo and conditioner and more, our range of products has something for every hair type, budget, and desired look.
Our team at Cliphair also always on hand to advise on the right hair extensions and hair care routine, and we also have a colour match and advice service to ensure you choose right, the first time.
