Do Hair Extensions Damage Hair?

Published May 20, 2024

If we’re going to be honest here, we’ll correctly guess that most women’s dream is to have long, bouncy, full-of-life, voluminous hair. Hair is one of our features, and we want to look perfect, given the chance to do so. And with this, wearing hair extensions is a great way to unlock that dream. It adds length, volume, and even color. 

However, some women are scared to try hair extensions. They fear they can harm their crowning glory. Is this true? Keep on reading to find out! Let’s start. 

Do Hair Extensions Damage Hair?

Do hair extensions ruin your hair? The correct answer is no. Hair extensions will not yield hair damage so long they are fitted professionally and are cared for dearly. 

In the past, hair extensions had a bad reputation. This happened due to the lack of options available. Clip-in extensions were known to be visible in the hair and cause strains on the follicles due to poorly crafted clips. Nowadays, there are so many hair extension alternatives that are kind to the hair, causing absolutely no damage.

How To Prevent Hair Damage From Hair Extensions

1. Get your natural hair in good shape.

It’s crucial to take care of your natural locks before getting a wave or extensions. Ensure your hair is clean and free of buildup from products like hairspray. Use conditioners to keep it moisturized and firm. 

2. See a professional stylist.

It would help if you got your hair extensions done by a professional. Pay attention when they are working. If the hairstyle is too tight, you may sense pain or have a headache. 

Tight hairstyles can trigger traction alopecia, a form of permanent hair loss caused by repeated pulling on the hair. If your hair hurts or feels too tight, ask your stylist to loosen it. 

3. Keep your hairstyle clean.

Wash your mane as often as necessary for your hair type. If you are wearing clip-in extensions, remove them before washing your natural mane. Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Both will keep your scalp clean and hydrated. 

4. Protect your edges

Your edges, the wispy hair that grows around your hairline, are very fragile. Show much need care by only using water-based styling gels. Moisturize it, too, with conditioner. Abstain from heated styling tools as much as you can. 

5. Brush with care 

The way you brush your mane can also damage it. Your extensions are fitted to your natural air from the roots, meaning that pulling and tugging will not only hurt but also cut the lifespan of extensions. Thus, brush your crowning glory gently on the busiest mornings. 

6. Protect your hair at night.

Wear a silk or satin bonnet. You can also slumber on a silk or satin pillowcase. In doing so, you reduce friction. Also, prevent tangling. 

7. Switch up your hairstyle.

Giving your mane a break from hair extensions is critical to maintaining healthy hair. Wear these styles for two to three months at most, then switch to a hairstyle without them.