No matter which texture you decided to try, we hope you're loving your new look. Installing your extensions is the first part of the process, but aftercare is really where it's at! Read on to learn more about some of our top tips for maintaining your hair at home.
The Essentials
To prevent shedding, seal your wefts before you install. Use a weft-sealer like Fray Check to get the job done.
Use a light leave-in conditioner as needed and a heat protectant when styling to keep your tresses hydrated.
Starting at the bottom and working your way up, use a paddle brush or wide-tooth comb to keep your hair tangle-free.
Keeping your hair clean and sans product buildup means your look will last! Co-wash your hair weekly and shampoo as needed.
To retain moisture and prevent frizz, wrap hair with a silk or satin scarf before you catch some zzz’s.
How to Prevent Shedding
Let’s be real - hair sheds, just like the hair on your head! But, it can be avoided with proper care. Use these tried-and-true tips to prevent shedding.
Pre-Install
Before your install, use a comb or gently run your fingers through the hair to let it breathe. You may see a few strands come out, but don’t worry, this step helps prevent excess shedding.
During Install
Follow your stylist’s instructions for maintaining your extensions. Opting for a DIY? Whether you’re installing your bundles to your own head or to a wig cap, make sure to sew around the wefts, not through them.
Post-Install
Be gentle when styling and detangling your hair. The more TLC your extensions receive, the longer your strands will last.
Sealing Wefts
One way to reduce shedding is to seal your wefts. To do this, squeeze a sealant sparingly along the weft of your bundle and let it dry completely. Avoid getting sealant on the hair by hanging your wefts or gently placing them on a plastic surface. Once dry, they are ready to be sewn-in.
How to Prevent Tangling
Follow along for our tips and tricks to avoid tangles, plus learn the best ways to remove knots. To stop tangles before they start, use a lightweight, water-based product. We suggest using a conditioning product that’s made for adding moisture. To detangle your hair, spritz it with water and comb it out in sections, starting from the ends of your hair and working your way up.
Keep Heat to a Minimum
When styling your hair with hot tools, keep the temperature between 350-375° to prevent causing damage. Styling your hair frequently on high heat is likely to wreak havoc.
Brushes & Tools
Wide-tooth combs, paddle brushes and denman-style brushes are your best bet for bundles and wigs. If you decide to use your fingers, always be gentle and split hair into sections to cut down on detangling time.
At-Home Habits
Before Bed, Pineapple Your Hair
- Gather your hair above your head
- Secure your hair with a stretchy hair tie — silk or satin are best
- Wrap a scarf around the perimeter of your head. This helps preserve your style.
- Get some beauty sleep
In the Morning, Do This:
For straight and pre-colored virgin hair, stick to lightweight products over heavy creams. Create texture with products and tools.
How to Blend Your Leave-Out
Keep your sew-in looking newer longer by wrapping your hair at night. You can use twist outs, flexi rods, or a hot tool when necessary to help blend your hair with the extensions.
Styling and Customization for Frontals and Closures
Before you lay your frontal or closure, you want a solid foundation. This is an important first step to guarantee a flat install. Remember, you can always book your Mayvenn stylist for a braid down and any customization service. To style and customize your closure or frontal yourself, check out our YouTube channel and blog for expert advice.
To Cleanse Your Lace, Do This:
Take an empty spray bottle and fill it with lukewarm water, then spray the lace until it is saturated. Next, add a tiny bit of shampoo to the spray bottle, and apply the shampoo mixture onto the lace and hair — we suggest using a sulfate-free shampoo. Then, gently rinse it off with a low-pressure stream of cool water.
Have more haircare questions or want suggestions for your next style? We're only a phone call, text or email away.
