How to Wash Hair Extensions & Style Them

Hair extensions aren’t cheap, let’s just get that out of the way. So, when it comes to washing these £200+ babies, you don’t want to mess it up. For first-time washers, the anxiety can become too much, resulting in, “Eh, they can go another wear before I need to deal with this”.

But there are only so many times you can put off washing them until they become the birthplace of unwanted bacteria and mass amounts of product build-up. However, there is a simple solution. Fear not, as our favourite beauty godmother Julia Carta is here to show you how to wash hair extensions and style them effortlessly every wear.

Get ya bowls out and taps running, it’s time to get down to business.

How to wash hair extensions:

Top tip: Give those extensions one last comb before you submerge them in water, ensuring the clips are properly closed. Tie them together with an elastic band to ensure that the extensions don’t get matted or lost within the water.

Step 1: Use lukewarm water to wash the extensions and prevent any damage being caused. For those who like to style their hair, opt for a clarifying shampoo to dissolve away any excess build-up of product.

Step 2: Pour the shampoo into lukewarm water, swirling them together to create a milky, dreamy mixture.

Step 3: Next, immerse the hair extensions in the mix, swishing it around before massaging any excess shampoo from the roots to the tips. This should result in a creamy lather that rinses out easily. Once done, gently ring out the extensions in a downwards motion.

Step 4: Using a separate bowl of clean, cooler water, rinse out the hair extensions.

Step 5: Still with us? We're more than halfway through! Next it's time to comb the hair with a Tangle Teezer. Apply a generous amount of your favourite conditioner or hair treatment to the mid-lengths of the hair before massaging through to coat each and every strand. Julia’s choice of treatment is the Balmain Moisturising Conditioner.

Step 6: Allow the conditioner to sit for two to three minutes, giving it enough time to absorb into the follicles. For a deeper treatment allow the conditioner to settle in overnight.

Step 7: After the selected amount of time, rinse thoroughly to ensure the hair extensions aren’t left feeling greasy or waxy. When washing out the extensions, always remember to pull the hair shaft down to avoid matting.

Step 8: Place the set of hair extensions in a towel and blot dry. Dry as usual with a hairdryer or leave to air-dry overnight. Pretty easy, right?!

Best Shampoos for Hair Extensions (Build-Up Removal Without Drying)

Best Conditioners & Treatments for Hair Extensions

How to style clip-in hair extensions:

Step 1: Comb those freshly washed and dried hair extensions with your trusty Tangle Teaser to ease out any knots. Then, go on in with the hairspray to give that extra bit of hold. This handy technique even helps to eliminate those pesky flyaways for a totally smoothed out look.

Step 2: If you’re using human hair extensions, use your regular straighteners or curling iron to create your go-to style. Julia suggests hanging the extensions up by clipping them to a coat hanger for trousers, allowing tor easy, safe styling.

Step 3: After you’ve prepped and styled the hair extensions, repeat the same styling process but on your own hair to make room for a seamless blend.

Step 4: This part is pretty important when it comes to attaching your extensions to your actual hair. Use a backcombing brush at the root to create a small cushion. This makes a secure base for the clips to attach to.

Step 5: Backcomb all sections of the hair from the under layers right through to the top and then clip in the extensions.

Tip: If the hair extensions fall a little too long in comparison to your own hair, use some thinning scissors to blend away the ends into your own hair.

Styling products for clip-in hair extensions:

FAQs

How often should you wash hair extensions?

Hair extensions don’t need frequent washing. Every 15–20 wears is usually enough, or sooner if there’s visible product build-up. Over-washing can dry extensions out and reduce their lifespan.

Can you use regular shampoo on hair extensions?

Yes, but opt for a sulphate-free, lightweight shampoo. Harsh cleansers strip moisture and can make extensions brittle. Clarifying shampoos are fine occasionally, but not for every wash.

Should hair extensions be washed in hot or cold water?

Lukewarm water is best. Hot water can weaken bonds and dry out the hair, while very cold water may not remove oils properly.

Why do hair extensions feel dry after washing?

Extensions don’t receive natural scalp oils, so they rely entirely on products for moisture. Dryness usually means they need richer conditioning, leave-in care, or fewer washes.

Is it okay to use heat on hair extensions after washing?

Yes, but only once they’re completely dry. Always use a heat protectant and keep tools on a moderate setting to prevent damage and loss of shine.

How do you prevent hair extensions from tangling when washing?

Detangle before washing, keep clips closed, and smooth products through in a downward motion. Avoid rubbing or scrunching, which can cause knots and matting.

Can you air-dry hair extensions instead of blow-drying them?

Yes—air-drying is often gentler. Lay extensions flat on a towel or hang them to dry. If blow-drying, use low heat and direct airflow downward.

What’s the biggest mistake people make when washing hair extensions?

Over-washing and using harsh products. Gentle handling, minimal washing and hydration-focused formulas help extensions last longer and look better.