How To Detangle Clip In Hair Extensions

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How To Detangle Clip In Hair Extensions

By Holly Gonsalves

Table of Contents

Whether you have textured curly hair or the sleekest of straight hair, you will have to deal with tangles from time to time, and having to detangle clip in extensions is no exception. Surprisingly, many people make the common mistake of replacing their extensions way before they need to, due to difficulty removing knots and matting, but with our expertise since 2007, we’re here to guide you with steps to avoid this.

Clip in hair extensions are a great way to add length and volume to your hair without the commitment of permanent extensions, so why not give them a second chance? In today’s blog, we’ll be diving into all the essentials of detangling your clip ins and maintaining their silky smoothness so you can maximise their use and keep them in pristine condition!

What Do Matted Hair Extensions Look Like?

Just like our own hair, extensions can become matted if not cared for correctly or when they have been exposed to harsh elements. Matted hair is difficult to brush and style. It also feels dry and brittle, and can seem hard to fix.

You’ll be glad to know that even the worst tangles can usually be removed and restored to their original beauty with a little help from the correct products and tools, so it’s not a reason to replace the set. If you want to learn more about how to correctly care for hair extensions check out our ultimate guide.

Why Are My Clip In Extensions Tangling?

Understanding why your clip in hair extensions might tangle is the first step in preventing it, and choosing high-quality Remy hair extensions is the first step. It keeps the hair cuticles aligned, so the hair is less likely to get tangled, especially compared to synthetic hair.

How you store the extensions is very important too, so use a hair extensions hanger and carrier, silk bag, or the box they came in. Most importantly, they need to be clean, dry, and protected from dust, moisture and sunlight.

Care for your extensions properly too, with a washing routine using the right sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner and brushing your hair extensions with a detangling brush or a wide-toothed comb.

For the full breakdown of why these things happen, see Why Do Hair Extensions Tangle and Matt?

How to Detangle Matted Hair Extensions

Step 1: Section the hair

Begin by dividing the hair into manageable sections with a pintail comb. This makes the detangling process more organised and less overwhelming. By doing it this way, if one area is particularly tangled, you can see it properly and focus on getting the tangles out, section by section.

Step 2: Start from the ends

Always begin brushing from the ends of the hair, gradually working your way up to the roots. This method minimises breakage and reduces stress on the hair shafts.

Step 3: Use a detangling spray or conditioner

Apply a detangling spray to loosen knots or a leave in conditioner to the matted areas before you brush. This helps to loosen the knots and makes the hair easier to brush.

Step 4: Be gentle

Use a gentle, steady motion to work through the tangles. Patience and a consistent routine are key to preventing damage!

Step 5: Store properly when not in use

Place your clip ins into our Hair Extension Hanger and Carrier, to store them safely when they’re not in use and keep them in good condition. This keeps tangles from forming and protects the hair from dust, moisture and sunlight too.

Can You Brush Wet Hair?

Gently brushing wet clip-in hair extensions with conditioner applied to prevent tangling

It’s true that wet hair is more prone to breakage because it has more elasticity than dry hair. However, if your hair extensions become knotty and tangled during washing, not brushing them before you dry them could cause the knots to worsen and become matted which is more damaging. This is how to detangle hair extensions at home: after washing, gently brush your clip in hair extensions with the correct brush whilst the conditioner is on. This should prevent any tangles forming and avoid any unnecessary damage to the hair.

Our detangling brush has flexible bristles that gently detangle without causing damage, making it safe to use on wet clip ins and permanent hair extensions. Always make sure you brush gently and avoid pulling or tugging to maintain the integrity of your extensions.

Curly Full Head Clip-Ins are the exception; they should only be brushed when wet with conditioner in. Never brush them when they’re dry as this is a recipe for frizz!

Tips to Prevent Tangling

Prevention is always better than letting the problem build up and dealing with it later. Here are some tips to keep your clip-in hair extensions tangle-free:

Regular brushing:

Build regular brushing into your hair care routine with our extension-friendly Detangling Hairbrush. This brush can be used on wet and dry hair and helps to prevent tangles from forming in the first place. Section your hair with alligator clips while brushing to make the process easier, especially when deciding which areas need more attention.

Using the Cliphair extension-friendly Detangling Hairbrush during a regular hair care routine

Use the right products:

Choose our sulphate-free Deep Moisture Shampoo and Deep Moisture Conditioner to maintain the health of your extensions. Sulphates can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and increased tangling.

Cliphair sulphate-free Deep Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner for healthy, tangle-free hair extensions

Proper storage:

Using our hair extension hanger and carrier ensures your extensions are stored correctly, reducing the risk of tangling.

Clip-in hair extensions stored safely and tangle-free using the Cliphair hair extension hanger and carrier

Avoid sleeping with extensions in:

Always remove your clip in extensions before bed to prevent matting.

Removing clip-in hair extensions before bed to prevent overnight matting and tangling

Be mindful of activities:

Activities like swimming or intense workouts can expose your extensions to sweat and chlorine, which can cause tangling. Consider removing them during these activities or use a protective measure.

If you’re struggling to tame your extensions and tangling has become matting, check out our guide on How To Prevent Hair Extensions Matting for more advice.

Clip-in hair extensions being removed or protected before swimming or exercise to prevent tangling

Conclusion

By following these guidelines and using the right tools and products into your routine, you can keep your clip-in hair extensions looking soft and tangle-free without having to replace them. For more info on our clip in collection, you can browse our guide to Clip In Hair Extensions Explained.

FAQs

What are the best techniques for detangling clip-in hair extensions?

To detangle clip-in hair extensions effectively, start by gently brushing them from the ends to the roots using an extension-friendly, detangling hairbrush. Hold the extensions firmly at the clip base to prevent pulling on the clips themselves. Use a detangling spray or conditioner to help loosen knots and tangles before brushing. Always work in small sections and be patient to avoid damaging the hair fibres.

Which tools should I use to prevent damaging clip-in hair extensions during detangling?

Our detangling hairbrush is perfectly designed for detangling natural hair and hair extensions – the clue is in the name! Its soft bristles effortlessly glide through your tresses, and when combined with our anti-slip grip, you’ll be guaranteed to have zero tangles and zero damage.

Are there specific products that can help with detangling clip-in hair extensions?

Yes, several products are specifically designed to help detangle clip-in hair extensions effectively. Look for detangling sprays, leave-in conditioners or Cliphair’s detangling hairbrush. These products often contain ingredients like silicone or oils that provide slip and reduce friction, making it easier to brush out tangles gently. Opt for products that are suitable for both natural hair and hair extensions, depending on the type you have.

How often should I detangle my clip-in hair extensions to maintain their quality?

Detangle your clip in extensions before washing and before and after each use. If you notice your hair getting knotty whilst you are wearing them its best to brush straight away, especially in windy or wet weather to prevent matting.

How often should I brush my clip in hair extensions?

It's advisable to brush your extensions before and after each use. Regular brushing helps maintain their smoothness and prevents tangling.

Can I use regular hairbrushes on my extensions?

Not all hairbrushes are suitable for hair extensions, its best to use a brush specifically designed for extensions. Brushes with bobbles on the ends of the teeth can catch on the attachments causing slippage and tension on the scalp. It's best to use a hair extension brush designed specifically for clip in and professional hair extensions. These brushes are gentler and help maintain the integrity of the hair.

What products should I avoid to prevent my extensions from tangling?

Avoid using products containing sulphates and alcohol. Our Quench The Thirst haircare collection contains zero sulphates, parabens and alcohol, and remains safe for use on natural hair and hair extensions. Opt for moisturising and sulphate-free products to keep your extensions hydrated and smooth.

How should I store my clip in hair extensions?

Store them in a cool, dry place like our satin-lined hanger and carrier to keep them organised, tangle-free and away from moisture and dust.

Can I sleep with my clip-in extensions?

It's recommended to remove clip-in extensions before sleeping to prevent tangling and matting, as this can cause damage to both your extensions and natural hair.

How do I revive severely matted extensions?

For severe matting, consider applying a deep conditioning treatment and gently detangling with a wide tooth comb. If the matting persists, it might be best to consult a professional stylist who specialises in applying or catering to human hair extensions.

Can you use a Tangle Teezer on clip-in hair extensions?

Hairbrushes without bobbles or ball-tipped bristles are fine, but a specific hair extension brush is best. If you are using a Tangle Teezer, make it one that is designed for hair extensions. Our Detangling Hairbrush is designed to glide over extensions with soft, flexible bristles to avoid any damage. Always support the extensions near the attachments to avoid tension at the roots.

Looking for salon-worthy hair without breaking the bank? At Cliphair, we’re here to help with high-quality clip in hair extensions for quick transformations and permanent hair extensions for long-lasting length or volume, all made from 100% Remy Human Hair. Extensions need special care and maintenance to preserve their quality, which is why we have our own hydrating haircare products, designed to keep your hair soft and tangle-free.

Need to find your closest shade match? Browse our full range of human hair extensions in over 60 shades or check out our FREE Express Colour Match Service to get a great blend with your natural hair. 

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