Hair extensions can transform your look, adding length, volume, and style. However, while they may be visually stunning, they can also pose risks to your scalp's health if not handled properly. This article delves into the potential scalp issues that can arise during the installation and daily wear of hair extensions, offering guidance on the products to use and avoid, as well as tips on maintaining your extensions, especially before bed. Whether you’re a seasoned extension wearer or new to the experience, understanding how to care for both your extensions and scalp is crucial for long-term hair health. Read on to learn the top tips to improving scalp health when wearing extensions from McKenzie Turley, hair extension expert and founder of Invisible Bead Extensions®.
While hair extensions are aesthetically pleasing, both installation and wearing the extensions can potentially cause scalp issues. This article will look at potential problems, ingredients and products to use and avoid, and how to prepare hair extensions before bed to maintain a healthy scalp.
Hair Extensions & Scalp Health
There are different times through installation and wearing hair extensions that can compromise the health of your scalp. Topical adhesives and bonds used in extensions like tape-ins can create irritation, leading to redness, itching, and discomfort. If extensions are too tight or heavy, they can pull on your natural hair and scalp, potentially causing hair loss known as traction alopecia. Hand-tied extensions like Invisible Bead Extensions® are often applied using a technique that places less tension on the scalp compared to methods like tape-ins or bonded extensions. This can reduce the risk of traction alopecia and scalp irritation. Hand-tied extensions are generally lighter than other types, which can lessen the strain on your natural hair and scalp. This lightweight nature can also contribute to a more natural look and feel.
Once hair extensions are installed, poor hygiene like failing to clean the extensions regularly or improper installation can lead to infections of the scalp. For example, if extensions are not cleaned regularly or if there’s an issue with the installation process, bacteria or fungi can thrive.
To minimize these risks, it's important to have extensions applied by an educated professional. Proper installation is crucial, so look for a certified hair Invisible Bead Extensions® extension specialist near you. For post care, choose high-quality hair products, follow proper aftercare as directed by your hair extension professional, and consider giving your natural hair some breaks from extensions to maintain optimal scalp health.
Products & Ingredients to Use and Avoid
Maintaining a healthy scalp while wearing hair extensions involves carefully selecting hair care products and ingredients.
Ingredients & Products to Use:
- Sulfate-free shampoos avoid stripping natural oils from your scalp. Sulfates can be harsh and may lead to dryness or irritation. Try the Goldie Locks Ultra Hydrating Signature Shampoo.
- Conditioners that provide hydration without weighing down the extensions containing ingredients like marula oil, ginseng and rose water. Try the Goldie Locks Ultra Hydrating Signature Conditioner.
- Leave-in conditioners can help with detangling and require less pulling on the scalp while brushing. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to avoid pulling on the extensions.
- Scalp treatments with soothing ingredients like probiotics can help maintain a healthy scalp environment. Try the Goldie Locks Scalp Serum.
- Natural oils such as marula oil, argan oil or jojoba oil can help keep the scalp and hair moisturized without making extensions greasy or heavy.
Ingredients & Products to Avoid:
- Sulfates can strip the scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness and potential irritation. Washing your hair too frequently can strip natural oils. Find a balance that keeps your scalp clean without causing dryness, like the Goldie Locks Clarifying Detox Shampoo.
- Products with silicones can build up on your scalp causing scalp congestion.
- Some alcohol like isopropyl alcohol, can be unnecessarily drying on your scalp
- Overly greasy oils or butters can build up on your scalp, leading to clogged pores
- Strong fragrances can cause scalp irritation and allergic reactions.
Styling & Protecting Hair Extensions and Scalp Health
To ensure your hair extensions remain in good condition and to prevent scalp irritation while you sleep, follow these tips for styling and protecting your extensions. Watch this video by Invisible Bead Extensions® for a step by step guide you can follow along with.
- Before going to bed, apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner or detangler like the Goldie Locks Ultra Hydrating Leave-in Conditioner to keep your extensions moisturized and manageable. Gently brush your extensions to remove tangles and knots, using a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed specifically for extensions. Rather than brushing from the scalp down, brush from the ends of your hair and methodically work your way up to avoid pulling on the extensions or your natural hair.
- Always ensure your hair is completely dry before going to bed, as sleeping with wet hair can cause tangling and increase the risk of damage.
- Braid your hair loosely to keep it from tangling overnight. This helps prevent excessive friction that can lead to strain on your scalp. You can also twist your hair loosely into a bun or coil. Either way, avoid tight braids or twists that can put stress on the extensions and your scalp. Tight hairstyles can stress your scalp and extensions, leading to damage or traction alopecia.
- Consider sleeping on silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction and prevent tangling and breakage. These materials are softer and much gentler on hair compared to commonly used pillowcase materials like cotton. For one step further, consider wearing a silk or satin hair wrap or bonnet to reduce friction and keep your extensions protected. By following these steps, you can help ensure that your hair extensions remain in good condition and avoid potential scalp issues while you sleep.
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