If you’re a pro stylist or salon owner, you already know—installing permanent extensions is only half the battle. The real magic? Keeping them flawless long after the client leaves your chair. Let’s walk through everything U need to coach clients on premium extension aftercare.
To take care of permanent hair extensions, clients should: brush gently daily with a loop or boar bristle brush, wash with sulfate-free products 1–2 times per week, sleep in protective styles on silk, avoid heat at the bonds, and moisturize mid-lengths to ends regularly. Salon check-ins every 6–8 weeks help maintain install quality.
That’s just scratching the surface. If U want those extensions to last and keep your installs reputation-proof, let’s break it down step by step—salon-tested, stylist-approved.
What Counts as Permanent Hair Extensions?
Before we dive into care tips, let’s get on the same page. “Permanent” doesn’t mean forever—it means the extensions are professionally installed to stay in the hair for weeks or months, rather than being removed daily like clip-ins or halos. Here are the main types of permanent extensions U might be working with:
1. Sewn-in Wefts (Hand-tied or Machine Wefts)
Hand-tied ,Machine Wefts, Genius Wefts and Flat Wefts and so on, these are sewn onto a track or install with beads at the root. They’re flat, discreet, and great for volume. Hand-tied wefts are especially lightweight and popular in luxury salons.
2. Keratin Fusion (U Tip, K Tip, Flat Tip)
These use a small keratin bond melted with heat to attach to the natural hair. Once cooled, the bond hardens and holds strong for months. It’s seamless and long-lasting but not reusable.
3. Tape-in Extensions
A client favorite. These are pre-taped wefts that sandwich natural hair between two adhesive strips. They install fast, lie flat, and blend beautifully. Best for fine to medium hair.
4. I-tip/Micro-link Extensions
Tiny strands tipped with a keratin or plastic tip, installed with a bead or ring. No glue or heat needed. Ideal for clients who want strand-by-strand freedom and reusability.
5. Genius Wefts
Ultra-thin, customizable wefts that combine the best of hand-tied and machine wefts. Can be cut and layered without shedding. Great for precision installs.
Each type has its own quirks and care rules—so let’s get into how to help your clients treat them right.
The First 48 Hours Are Everything
Right after the install, clients need to follow a no-wash, low-manipulation rule. No gym. No swimming. No steam. That bond needs to set. Here’s what else you should coach them on:
Don’t touch the bonds – Curious fingers loosen everything.
No products near the roots – Especially with keratin or tape installs.
No ponytails or tension – Let the scalp adapt naturally.
This grace period sets the tone for the rest of the wear cycle. Trust me—when clients skip this, you can almost predict the early slippage.
Daily Routine: Low Friction, High Impact
You want your clients brushing and protecting the hair every single day. But not just any brushing—here’s the pro way:
The Non-Negotiables:
Use a loop or boar bristle brush – These glide without tugging bonds.
Start brushing from the ends, work upward – Always.
Detangle morning and night – Especially for long installs.
Check bond areas for tangling or buildup – A little surveillance goes a long way.
If your clients skip brushing for even one night, they risk forming “dread pads” around the bonds. Not cute. Not easy to fix.
Wash Like a Pro: Less Often, Smarter
Permanent extensions don’t need daily washing. In fact, overwashing strips moisture and loosens bonds faster than anything. Here’s what U should suggest:
The Game Plan:
2 washes/week with sulfate-free shampoo
Focus shampoo at the scalp only
Use a downward motion—no scrubbing or piling hair on top of the head
Condition mid-lengths to ends, not the roots
Bonus tip? Recommend they finish with a cool rinse to help close the cuticle and keep hair sleek.
Heat: Handle With Respect
Clients love styling. But permanent extensions and constant flat irons are not besties. Here’s what to tell them:
Keep hot tools below 380°F (193°C)
Never apply heat directly to bonds or wefts
Use a heat protectant every single time
Blow dry the roots after washing to prevent mildew
Flat ironing the bond line? A surefire way to cause slippage or melting—especially with keratin tips.
Night Care: Underrated, Overlooked, But Essential
This is where a lot of clients fall off. But if you install high-end full cuticle hair like we do, it’s worth preserving with solid nighttime habits.
The Essentials:
Loose braid or pineapple
Silk or satin pillowcase (or bonnet for extra coverage)
Never sleep on wet hair
Quick finger detangle before bed
If you can, retail nighttime care kits in your salon. It’s a win for U and your clients—less damage, more referrals.
Moisture Maintenance: The Right Way
Since extension hair doesn’t get oils from the scalp, your clients need to manually nourish it. But don’t let them go wild with oils.
Keep It Balanced:
Product Type Use Area Frequency
Leave-in conditioner Mid-lengths to ends 2–3x/week
Lightweight oil (argan/jojoba) Just ends As needed
Scalp oils Only if dry/itchy 1–2x/week max
Avoid heavy butters or applying too close to the root. Especially for tape-ins—nothing loosens adhesive faster than greasy buildup.
Permanent Hair Extension-Specific Care Tips
Each method comes with its own do’s and don’ts. Here’s a quick breakdown for each:表格
Extension Type Special Care Notes
Sewn-in Wefts Avoid buildup around beads/braids. Clean scalp thoroughly. Blow-dry roots to prevent mildew.
Keratin Tips Avoid oil/conditioner near bonds. Heat can melt keratin—use a barrier if blow-drying.
Tape-ins No oil-based products near roots. Sandwiches can separate if too much moisture/oil is introduced.
I-tip/Micro Links Check for slipping or beads loosening. Clients must avoid tight ponytails to prevent tension spots.
Genius Wefts Can be cut, but seal the edge. Keep stitching area clean and dry. Ideal for minimal-bulk installs.
Maintenance Appointments: No Skipping
Permanent hair extensions need salon check-ins every 6–8 weeks, depending on the method. Here’s why that timing matters:
Tighten and reposition bonds
Remove shed hair trapped in bonds
Check for buildup, matting, or tension spots
Refresh trims or replace old strands
Let clients know: delaying their move-up doesn’t save money—it risks damage to their natural hair.
Pro Tips Clients Shouldn’t Miss
Here’s a checklist you can print or text to new extension clients:
✅ Brush daily with the right tool
✅ Sleep in protective styles on silk
✅ Wash 1–2x/week with gentle shampoo
✅ Never sleep on wet hair
✅ Keep oils away from bonds
✅ Use heat responsibly
✅ Come back for check-ins every 6–8 weeks
Bonus: Add your salon’s product recs here. Clients love curated advice—and it keeps your retail flowing.
FAQs: Permanent Hair Extension Aftercare
Q: Can I go swimming with permanent hair extensions?
A: Yes, but always wear a protective swim cap. Saltwater and chlorine dry out the hair and weaken bonds. Rinse immediately after and use a deep conditioner.
Q: Can I color my extensions while they’re installed?
A: It depends on the method and hair quality. Wefts and tapes can usually be dyed carefully. Keratin tips should be removed first. Always test a strand first.
Q: What’s the best brush for permanent extensions?
A: Loop brushes or soft boar bristle brushes. Avoid paddle brushes or anything with hard plastic bristles.
Q: My extensions are tangling at the root—what’s wrong?
A: Likely buildup of shed hair or poor brushing habits. Book a salon check-up immediately to prevent matting.
Q: Do extensions damage natural hair?
A: Not if applied correctly and cared for properly. The biggest risks come from skipping maintenance or using heat/oils incorrectly.
Q: Can I use dry shampoo?
A: Yes—but apply only at the scalp, not near bonds. Avoid heavy powders that build up.
Q: How long do permanent hair extensions last?
A: The hair itself can last 6–12 months (or longer if full cuticle). The install typically lasts 6–8 weeks before needing a move-up.
Q: What’s the best way to store removed extensions?
A: Wash, air dry, detangle, and store in a silk bag or box. Keep them away from heat and moisture.
Q: Why are my extensions slipping?
A: Could be oil near the bonds, not waiting 48 hours after install, or incorrect brushing. Always follow care instructions closely.
Final Thoughts: You Install the Hair, They Maintain the Magic
As a stylist, your artistry shines at install—but the client’s habits keep that masterpiece intact. Equip them with the right tools, education, and schedule, and they’ll sing your praises every time someone asks “Where did you get your hair done?”
And if you want to go a step further? Offer branded care kits, mini guidebooks, or even QR codes linking to your own tutorial videos. That’s how you turn clients into lifelong advocates—and make your extension installs last from appointment to appointment without fail.
Need a printable checklist version of this post for your salon? Just say the word.
