If you’ve invested in hair extensions, you already know how transformative they can be, whether it's added volume, length, or the ability to finally achieve the styles you've always dreamed of. But just like your natural hair, your extensions need the right care to stay soft, smooth, and looking their best.
Washing your hair extensions correctly is one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy and long-lasting. Do it right, and they’ll stay luscious and beautiful for months. Do it wrong, and you risk matting, dryness, or even early damage. That’s why we’ve put together this simple, expert-approved guide on how to wash your hair extensions properly - no matter which type of SWAY extensions you’re wearing.
Understanding Your Hair Extensions: Why Washing Matters
Hair extensions - especially high-quality Remy human hair like those from SWAY, don’t receive natural oils from your scalp like your own hair does. That means they can dry out faster if they’re not cared for gently.
Whether you have nano bond extensions, tape-ins, or clip-ins, an effective washing routine will help:
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Extend their lifespan
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Keep them feeling silky and manageable
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Prevent unnecessary tangling and matting
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Maintain your hair’s natural shine and movement
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Hair Extensions
Step 1: Use the Right Products
Always use sulphate-free, extension-safe shampoos and conditioners, like the SWAY Hydrate System. These products are specially formulated to be gentle on hair extensions and keep the hair soft and manageable.
Avoid anything with heavy oils, alcohol, or protein-rich formulas that can weigh down or damage the extension hair.
Step 2: Detangle Before Washing
Before stepping into the shower, gently brush through your hair using a soft paddle or oval brush, starting at the ends and working your way up. This helps prevent extra tangling when your hair gets wet.
Pro tip: hold the hair at the root while brushing to avoid tugging on the bonds.
Step 3: Rinse with Lukewarm Water
Use lukewarm water, not hot! Hot water can weaken adhesive bonds and dry out your extensions. Let the water run gently from roots to ends without flipping your head upside down, which can create tangles.
Step 4: Hydrating Shampoo Gently
Apply the hydrating shampoo to your scalp and gently massage using your fingertips. Focus on the roots and scalp area, where oils and product build-up accumulate. Let the shampoo rinse through the lengths, there’s no need to scrub the extensions directly.
For clip-ins, gently wash each weft individually by hand in lukewarm water.
Step 5: Condition Mid-Lengths to Ends
Never apply conditioner to the roots or bonds, this can cause slipping or loosening. Instead, apply conditioner from the mid-lengths down to the ends, and leave it on for a few minutes to soften and hydrate.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly and Gently Dry
Rinse out the hydrating conditioner completely with cool water, and gently squeeze (never wring) the water out of your hair. Pat with a microfiber towel.
Avoid rubbing or twisting the hair with a towel, as this can create tangles and damage.
Drying Hair Extensions the Right Way
At SWAY, we recommended drying your hair with the AIRE Flow Digital Hairdryer. Always use a heat protectant spray and avoid aiming the dryer directly at the bonds or tapes.
For nano or tape-in extensions, blow-drying the roots is actually encouraged to prevent moisture buildup around the bonds, but keep it gentle and don’t overheat.
Expert Tips for Long-Lasting Extensions
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Sleep smart: Tie your hair in a loose braid or low ponytail to prevent tangling at night.
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Brush daily: Always brush your extensions in the morning and before bed using a soft extension-safe brush.
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Use silk: Swap to a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and dryness.
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Use the correct product: Avoid heavy oils, dry shampoos, or styling creams near the roots or bonds.[link to our Hair Care Category]
Washing your hair extensions properly is one of the best ways to protect your investment and keep your hair looking full, soft and beautiful. With the right technique, a gentle touch and quality aftercare products, your extensions will stay looking salon-fresh day after day.
Ready to refresh your routine?
Browse our full extension-safe haircare range or book a consultation with one of our salon professional today!
Washing Hair Extensions: FAQs
1. Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner on my extensions?
No, you should use sulphate-free, extension-safe products to prevent dryness and slipping at the hair extensions. SWAY’s Haircare Range is specifically made for extension care.
2. Should I wash my extensions upside down?
No. Always keep your head upright while washing to prevent tangling. Washing upside down can make the hair knot and pull on the hair extensions.
3. How do I wash clip-in extensions?
Remove them, gently detangle, and wash each weft by hand in cool to lukewarm water with our hydrating shampoo. Rinse and blow dry smooth.
4. Can I let my extensions air-dry?
No, always thoroughly blow dry. Air-drying is gentler and helps preserve the integrity of the hair. Just avoid sleeping with wet hair, especially if you have permanent extensions.
5. How do I avoid matting at the roots?
Brush regularly, never go to bed with wet hair, and always dry the roots of your extensions (especially nano and tape-ins) with our AIRE Flow Digital Hairdryer on a low setting.
