If you’re new to wearing hair extensions, you might be wondering if it’s safe to shower with them. After all, keeping them clean is just as important as your natural hair! In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essential dos and don’ts when it comes to showering with hair extensions, whether you’re wearing tape-ins, clip-ins, or any other type of extension.

Yes, you can shower with hair extensions, but there are certain precautions you should take to ensure their longevity and keep them looking fresh. The care you give depends on the type of extensions you have, such as tape-in, clip-in, or others. It’s important to wash and care for them correctly to avoid damage.

Curious about how to protect your extensions when showering or washing your hair with them in? Keep reading for expert tips and advice to maintain your extensions’ health and appearance.

Can You Shower with Hair Extensions?

Absolutely, but there are some important things to consider. Your extensions are designed to last through daily activities like showering, but it’s essential to treat them with care. Here’s what you should know:

Gentle Washing: Avoid scrubbing the scalp aggressively. Instead, let the water gently flow over your hair while you lather shampoo in a downward motion to avoid tangling.

Avoid Direct Water Pressure on the Bonds: If you have tape-in hair extensions, try not to let the water hit the tape directly. Too much moisture can weaken the adhesive and cause the extensions to slip.

Can You Shower with Tape-In Hair Extensions?

You can shower with tape-in extensions, but remember that excessive moisture near the tape can lead to the adhesive weakening. To protect the bond:

Shower with Caution: Always let water flow downwards and avoid direct spraying onto the tape.

Dry Properly: After the shower, gently pat your hair with a towel, focusing on the roots and tape areas. Avoid rubbing the tape with a towel, as this could loosen the adhesive.

Avoid Hot Water: Hot water can weaken the adhesive over time. Opt for lukewarm water to preserve the bond and keep your extensions secure.

Can You Shower with Clip-In Hair Extensions?

When it comes to clip-in extensions, the rule is simple: Remove them before showering. While clip-ins are designed to be easy to install and remove, they aren’t made to be worn while wet.

Shower Without Worry: Clip-ins aren’t attached to your natural hair permanently, so the best choice is to remove them before stepping into the shower.

Store Them Safely: While you’re showering, make sure to keep your clip-ins somewhere safe, like a dry, clean towel or a special storage pouch, so they stay in good condition.

Can You Wash Your Hair with Extensions in?

Yes, you can wash your hair with extensions in, but it requires a more careful approach. If you’re wearing sew-ins or keratin hair, here are a few key tips:

Use a Mild Shampoo: Go for sulfate-free, gentle shampoos to avoid drying out both your natural hair and the extensions.

Focus on the Scalp: When washing, concentrate on cleaning your scalp while keeping the shampoo away from the extension bonds. You don’t want to weaken the adhesive or risk tangling.

Avoid Over-Washing: Over-washing can cause both your natural hair and extensions to dry out. Wash your hair every 2-3 days to maintain the best texture.

Extra Tips for Showering and Caring for Extensions

Condition Carefully: When conditioning, focus on the ends of your extensions, avoiding the roots and any bonds. Too much conditioner near the tape or weft can cause slipping.

Dry Gently: Always towel dry your hair after a shower by gently patting, never rubbing. For tape-in extensions, blow-drying can be tricky—make sure to use a low heat setting and avoid direct heat on the adhesive.

Avoid Pool Water or Saltwater: Swimming in chlorine or saltwater can damage extensions, so it’s best to avoid getting them wet in the pool or ocean. If you must, always rinse your extensions immediately after swimming to minimize damage.

Conclusion

Showering with hair extensions is totally fine as long as you take the right precautions. Whether you have tape-ins or clip-ins, it’s all about maintaining the integrity of the extensions and their bonds. Keep your washing routine gentle, avoid direct heat or water pressure on the extensions, and take time to dry them carefully. With the right care, you can shower confidently without worrying about damaging your hair extensions.