You probably would not consider doing all that chemical
service to your own hair, so keep this in mind as you care for that beautiful
hair you just bought with your weekly paycheck.
The number one goal in keeping hair extensions healthy is to
keep the hair moisturized. This means adding a layer of oil or conditioner to help
keep the water in the hair from disappearing. Just like your skin, hair that is
not protected will dry out, and when it does, it becomes brittle and will not
hold style. So do not over shampoo, daily shampooing is not necessary. If
anything, condition the hair daily with conditioner only. The conditioner will
slide off any obnoxious smells and dirt that has attached itself to your hair.
My recommendation is that you use a balsam or oil based conditioner. In fact,
one of the best conditioners I have found for extension hair is actually sold
to be used on my HORSE! The manes and tails of horses need constant “sealing”
to retain moisture or they become wiry and unmanageable. I love to use “Show Sheen”
on my horse and my extensions. Both become manageable and silky with continued
use.
I do not care what any one tells you, chemically altering
hair extensions is crazy. The hair has been already dyed with textile dyes, and
these dyes can interact with normal hair dyes and create havoc in the hair
shaft. If any coloring is needed use only a glaze, with no more than 10 volume
peroxide. This means NO lightening processes, only toning and mild darkening
are acceptable and only done by a professional with experience in dying wigs
and hair pieces. This is not a job for a novice!
The owner of the last salon I worked in always said “Hair is
hair…” and it made me want to scream! This is absolutely wrong. Even the best
hair is a fragile substance that should be carefully manipulated and treated as
if it were the finest crystal, easily broken, but beautiful when cared for
properly. Do not brush the hair roughly,
apply excessive heat, or tie it tight to the head or you are asking for
trouble. Do not swim, avoid any and all activities that may entangle the hair.
If you are an enthusiast exerciser, tie the hair gently before you begin. Use
satin pillow cases, and for God’s sake, stay on top during sex! Signing off now…enjoy
your hair!
Christine Hanson
