Weft hair extensions offer volume, length, and styling freedom—but only if they’re well maintained. Without proper care, even high-quality extensions can tangle, shed, or pull on your natural hair. Whether you’re a stylist recommending aftercare or a client new to extensions, this guide explains how to look after weft extensions to keep them healthy, seamless, and long-lasting.
I. Brushing and Detangling Your Wefts
Daily brushing is essential to prevent tangling, especially near the roots and weft tracks.
✅ How to brush correctly:
- Use a loop brush or a wide-tooth comb designed for extensions.
- Always start from the ends, working upward in small sections.
- Hold the base of the weft while brushing to avoid tension at the roots.
- Brush at least twice a day: morning and before bed.
⚠️ Avoid:
- Brushing when wet (it causes more breakage).
- Using regular fine-tooth combs—they may catch on weft seams.
II. Washing Weft Extensions Properly
Weft extensions don’t produce oils like your scalp, so over-washing dries them out. Stick to hydrating, sulfate-free shampoo and keep your wash routine gentle.
💧 Tips for shampooing:
- Wash hair every 7–10 days, or as needed.
- Focus on cleansing the scalp, not scrubbing the wefts.
- Use lukewarm water and massage with fingertips in downward strokes.
🧴 Conditioner:
- Apply mid-length to ends only.
- Never apply directly to the weft seam—it may loosen the bond or stitching.
III. Drying and Heat Styling Tips
Wet wefts are heavy and fragile—handle them with care.
🔥 Drying:
- Gently squeeze out excess water with a towel (no wringing).
- Use a blow-dryer on medium heat.
- Dry the weft area completely to prevent mildew or matting at the seam.
🧊 Styling:
- Use a heat protectant spray before straightening or curling.
- Avoid direct heat on the weft seams to maintain their integrity.
IV. Sleeping with Weft Extensions
The way you sleep affects how long your extensions last.
😴 Night care tips:
- Brush hair before bed to prevent tangles.
- Tie your hair in a loose braid or low ponytail.
- Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and moisture loss.
V. Recommended Products for Weft Hair Care
Your product choices directly impact the lifespan of your extensions.
Product Type | What to Use | What to Avoid |
---|---|---|
Shampoo | Sulfate-free, hydrating formulas | Clarifying or drying shampoos |
Conditioner | Lightweight, moisture-rich | Silicone-heavy or oil-based near roots |
Heat Protectant | Thermal spray, lightweight serums | Alcohol-heavy sprays |
Leave-in Products | Light detangling sprays or creams | Thick masks unless rinsed thoroughly |
VI. Salon Maintenance: Refit and Retightening
To maintain a secure and natural look, salon maintenance every 6–8 weeks is essential.
During your visit:
- The stylist will remove and reposition the wefts to align with new hair growth.
- Tracks will be checked for tension, matting, or build-up.
- Trimming or reshaping may be done to blend the extensions perfectly.
Don’t skip maintenance, or you risk damage to your natural hair.
VII. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes to keep your wefts beautiful and intact:
- Washing hair too often or with harsh products
- Sleeping with wet hair
- Ignoring signs of loosening or tangling
- Using thick oils near the weft line
- Delaying salon refits beyond 8 weeks
Final Thoughts
Weft extensions can transform your hair—but only if you treat them with the same care you’d give your natural strands. Learn how to look after weft extensions properly, you’ll enjoy seamless results that last for weeks—without risking damage or discomfort.