Hair extensions are very expensive so to get your moneys worth it is important to look after them the best way possible to ensure they stay in immaculate condition for the life span that they are attached to you head.

After the initial application of the extensions you should not wash them for a couple of days. The extensionist who has applied them will probably recommend or give you some specific products to use on your hair extensions. If not you must bare in mind that the hair is not getting any natural moisture from the root like your own natural hair so it is important to use a cleansing shampoo and a very moisturising conditioner.

When shampooing your hair extensions do not tip your head up side down over the bath you must keep your head in the upright position. It is also advisable to comb the hair extensions through thoroughly before you begin the washing process to minimise knots. Whilst shampooing it is imperative to not scrub at the root as you will cause disruption of the bonds. Instead gently and slowly massage at the root of the extensions and then the mid lengths and ends can be cleansed more vigorously.

Rinsing should be thorough and then conditioner should be applied to the mid lengths and ends only, always avoiding the root area as this will cause your bonds to soften and fall out. It is also good to comb the extension through whilst the conditioner is on still and then rinse.

A treatment is always advisable to use once a week to keep the hair extensions in excellent condition and lustrous again avoiding the bond area.

Before drying and styling your hair extensions it is important to comb the hair through, then dry them using a towel first to get most of the water out, also make sure you dry them in sections using a dryer with a nozzle to blow the hot air in the directions of the hair cuticle that is not too hot and a good rounded bristle brush is needed. Aim the heat down the hair extension shaft and keep the hair dryer and brush moving at all times.

It is a good idea to use heat protector spray when using any heated appliances on your extensions also you can use hair spray and serums to help style them just like on your natural hair.

Hair extensions do not look good poker straight so it is also a good move to put a little kink in the end using the bristle brush and hair dryer to enhance a natural look.

DO NOT use straightening irons on your extensions as the heat will fry them and dry them out and cause damage to the extensions.

Tongs can be used and other heated appliances on your hair extensions but not heat over 120 degrees as these will again fry the extension hair.

Many woman who have extensions decide to go and get their hair blow dried once a week in salon to make it look good this is a great idea. You will find while wearing your extension that the need to wash your hair lessons and it stays in position and looks thicker for longer periods thus reducing the need to use heated appliances to make it look good. In turn this can help your natural hair get in a healthier state as you are not putting your hair through your usual daily styling routines.

Another trick is to tie the bottom part of the hair up with all the hair extensions in a hair band and just wash and dry the top part. This is a quick alternative to washing the whole head as having hair extensions will take longer to dry than you are used to so you can do this once a week to make your hair extensions look fresh.

When getting ready for bed it is best to brush the hair extensions through and then do a low pony tail or a plait to sleep in this will also stop them knotting.