Caring for your hair extensions properly makes the difference between luxurious, long-lasting results and premature damage. Whether you've invested in tape-in extensions, genius weft extensions, or K-tip extensions, following the right maintenance routine protects your investment and keeps your hair looking salon-fresh between appointments.

Discover Our Best Hair Extensions - INH Professional

Daily Brushing Habits That Prevent Damage

Brushing hair extensions correctly is your first defense against tangling, matting, and bond damage. Use a loop brush, soft-bristle paddle, or wide-tooth comb designed specifically for extensions, starting from the ends and working upward to the roots. Hold the hair gently at the roots while brushing to avoid tugging on bonds or tape attachments.

Brush your extensions at least twice daily, ideally morning and night. Always brush before showering to remove tangles when hair is dry, and only brush again when hair reaches 80% dryness after washing. If you must detangle wet hair, use a wide-tooth comb in the shower after applying conditioner, working gently to prevent breakage.

Spend 20 to 30 seconds separating your extensions at the scalp two or three times daily to prevent matting where bonds meet your natural hair. This simple habit keeps wefts from tangling together as your hair grows, reducing stress during professional maintenance appointments.

Washing Your Extensions the Right Way

Wash your extensions 2-3 times per week using a sulfate-free shampoo specifically formulated for extension care. Over-washing strips natural oils and causes extensions to become dry and brittle, while under-washing leads to product buildup and itchy scalp issues. Always wash in the shower with your head tilted back rather than flipping hair forward over a sink or tub.

Apply shampoo twice during each wash, as the second wash is most important for thorough cleansing. Gently lather using downward motions without rubbing or tangling the hair. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all residue, which prevents scalp irritation and keeps extensions looking fresh.

For tape-in or bonded extensions, avoid applying conditioner directly to roots or attachment points. Focus conditioning treatments on mid-lengths and ends only, as oils and heavy products near bonds can cause slippage and premature wear. Rinse conditioner completely with moderate water pressure to maintain bond integrity.

Drying Techniques That Preserve Quality

Pat your hair dry gently using a microfiber towel rather than rubbing vigorously. Air-drying can lead to tangling in some extension methods, so professionals recommend controlled blow-drying with low to medium heat settings. Focus on drying the roots and attachment points first to prevent moisture from loosening bonds or causing bacterial growth.

Always blow-dry in a downward direction to smooth cuticles and prevent frizz. Apply a small amount of hair oil or serum to each weft before drying to lock in moisture and maintain silky texture. Never sleep with wet extensions, as this creates matting and puts unnecessary stress on attachment points.

Use heat protectant spray before blow-drying to shield hair from thermal damage up to 450 degrees. Keep tools moving continuously and avoid concentrating heat on bonds or tapes, which can weaken adhesive and lift color.

Heat Styling Without Damaging Extensions

Extensions handle heat styling beautifully when you follow proper precautions. Keep flat irons, curling irons, and other hot tools on low to medium settings (never exceeding 400°F or 180°C) to prevent excessive heat exposure that leads to dryness and breakage.

Apply heat protectant products before every styling session to create a barrier between hair and tools. Avoid placing hot tools directly on bonds, tape attachments, or micro rings, as excessive heat can melt adhesive and cause color fading. Limit heat styling frequency by opting for heatless styles like braids, buns, or loose ponytails whenever possible.

Over-styling puts stress on extensions and accelerates wear. Give your hair breaks between styling sessions, and embrace your extensions' natural texture by using styling products instead of constant heat. Quality extensions like those from INH Professional collections maintain their shape and style beautifully with minimal manipulation.

Night Care Routines for Extension Longevity

Before bed, tie your hair into a loose braid or low ponytail using a soft scrunchie or fabric hair tie. This prevents tangling and reduces friction while you sleep, keeping extensions smooth and manageable. Never use tight elastics that pull on bonds or create stress points.

Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction that causes matting and breakage. These smooth fabrics allow hair to glide naturally as you move during sleep, unlike cotton, which grabs and tangles extensions. Silk pillowcases also help extensions retain moisture and prevent frizz.

Make sure hair is completely dry before sleeping. Wet or damp extensions tangle more easily and create perfect conditions for matting at the roots. If you must wash hair in the evening, allow extra time for thorough drying or use a blow dryer on low heat to finish the job.

Weekly Deep Conditioning Treatments

Apply a deep conditioning mask to mid-lengths and ends once weekly to keep extensions soft, hydrated, and manageable. Look for sulfate-free and paraben-free treatments infused with argan oil, shea butter, or other nourishing ingredients that restore moisture without weighing hair down.

Leave treatments on for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid applying masks to bonded or taped areas where heavy products can cause slippage. For clip-in extensions, you can treat the entire weft since there are no attachment points to worry about.

Add moisture daily between deep conditioning sessions using lightweight leave-in conditioners, serums, or oils. Extensions undergo extra processing that makes them prone to drying out faster than natural hair. Apply 1-2 times per day to ends and mid-lengths, keeping products away from roots and bonds.

Products to Use and Avoid

Choose sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners formulated specifically for hair extensions. Sulfates strip natural oils and cause extensions to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Look for moisturizing ingredients that add hydration without leaving residue.

Use lightweight oils like coconut oil, argan oil, or extension-specific serums that penetrate deeply without creating greasy buildup. These products reduce frizz, add shine, and protect extensions from environmental damage when applied to ends and mid-lengths. Never apply oils or conditioners to tape, bonds, or micro rings where they weaken adhesive.

Avoid heavy styling products, silicone-based serums near attachment points, and any products containing alcohol or harsh chemicals that dry out hair. Skip dry shampoo on the bonds themselves, though you can use it on natural hair at the roots to extend time between washes.

Professional Maintenance Schedule

Tape-in extensions require repositioning every 4-8 weeks as your natural hair grows. During these appointments, your stylist removes the tapes, cleans any residue, and reapplies extensions closer to the roots using fresh adhesive. Skipping these appointments causes visible gaps and increases tangling risk.

Micro-ring and K-tip extensions need maintenance every 6-10 weeks for tightening or reinstallation. As your hair grows, bonds slide down and become noticeable, requiring professional adjustment to maintain a seamless look. Regular maintenance prevents bonds from matting together and reduces damage to your natural hair.

Genius weft extensions typically last 6-8 weeks between move-up appointments depending on your hair growth rate. Professional maintenance includes checking bead placement, adjusting for growth, and assessing overall hair health. Waiting longer than recommended can lead to uncomfortable tension and visible rows.

Extension Type-Specific Care

Clip-in extensions require minimal maintenance since you remove them daily. Wash only when necessary (every 15-20 wears), store properly in their original packaging or a clean container, and brush gently before each use. These extensions can last indefinitely with proper care since they experience less wear than permanent methods.

Tape-in and weft extensions need careful handling during washing to prevent adhesive loosening. Always wash in the shower with water flowing downward, avoid flipping hair upside down, and keep water temperature moderate. Pat dry gently and blow-dry attachments completely to prevent moisture buildup.

Bonded extensions (keratin bonds, K-tips) require extra attention at the bond points. Keep all oils, conditioners, and heavy products away from bonds where they can cause premature breakage. During brushing, hold hair above the bonds to prevent pulling, and separate bonds daily to avoid matting.

Swimming and Physical Activity Care

Tie your hair into a protective braid or bun before swimming or exercising. Consider wearing a swim cap to prevent exposure to chlorine, saltwater, or excessive moisture that accelerates tangling. If you swim regularly, rinse extensions immediately after with fresh water to remove chemicals and salt.

Rinse or wash hair after workouts to remove sweat and reduce buildup at the scalp. Sweat can cause itching and weaken adhesive bonds if left to dry on extensions. Use a sulfate-free shampoo for post-workout cleansing, or simply rinse with water if you've recently washed.

Apply a leave-in conditioner or oil after swimming to restore moisture lost from chlorine or saltwater exposure. Brush gently once hair reaches 80% dryness to remove tangles without causing breakage. Protect your investment by taking these simple precautions before water activities.

Common Mistakes That Damage Extensions

Playing with or touching extensions throughout the day loosens bonds, causes shedding, and damages natural hair. Avoid pulling at roots, twirling sections around your fingers, or constantly adjusting your hair. The less you manipulate attachment points, the longer your extensions last.

Sleeping with wet hair ranks among the most damaging mistakes. Wet extensions tangle easily, matte at the roots, and put stress on bonds that leads to premature wear. Always allow sufficient drying time or blow-dry on low heat before bed.

Skipping regular maintenance appointments causes extensions to slip, tangle, or become uncomfortable as your natural hair grows. Extensions left in longer than recommended can damage natural hair and create matting that requires removal charges before reapplication. Schedule your next appointment before leaving the salon to stay on track.

Discover Our Best Hair Extensions - INH Professional

1. INH Professional - K-Tip Extensions

Description (K-Tip Extensions):

Precision Italian Keratin Fusion: INH Professional K-Tip Extensions are strand-by-strand extensions engineered with 100% Italian keratin glue for superior strength, flexibility, and seamless application. Developed over 2 years with expert stylists, these keratin tip extensions feature embossed cut guidelines, 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair, and colored bond options for invisible, natural-looking results.

Key Features:

• 100% Italian Keratin Glue: Industry-leading strength, flexibility, seamless application & clean removal

• Premium Hair Quality: Ethically sourced, double-drawn 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair

• Embossed Cut Guidelines: Customizable to pointed, half, or micro tips for precision and speed

• Exclusive Color Range: Pre-toned, multi-tonal shades that reduce custom coloring needs

• Available Lengths: 16", 20", and 24" options

• Specifications: 25 grams per pack | 16"-17": 30pcs (0.83g/strand) | 20"-21": 25pcs (1g/strand) | 24"-25": 20pcs (1.25g/strand)

• Safe & Non-Toxic: Pure keratin protein, scalp-friendly, free of synthetic resins

• Heat & Water Resistant: Withstands daily styling and washing

Why Choose INH Pro K-Tips:

These aren't ordinary fusion extensions, INH Pro K-Tips use genuine 100% Italian keratin because quality matters. The durable, long-lasting bonds hold for months without cracking or white crusting, while the nearly invisible colored keratin ensures a flawless, natural blend. Heat styling and water resistant, these extensions maintain integrity through daily wear. The keratin melts cleanly and rolls to perfection for easy installs, and removes gently with INH Pro Oil-Free Bond Remover (no heat needed). Perfect for precision placement, cocktail methods, and areas where wefts can't provide full coverage. Customers rave about the "beautiful shade," "amazing quality of the keratin," and "solid length all the way through the ends."

Installation: 30-90 minutes | Maintenance: 4-6 weeks | Lifespan: 3-6 months with 90-day warranty

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2. INH Professional - Genius Weft Extensions

Description (Genius Weft Extensions):

The Ultimate in Weft Technology: INH Professional Genius Weft Extensions are a special hybrid hand-tied extension featuring ultra-thin construction with no return hair for seamless, lightweight comfort. These semi-permanent extensions combine the best of hand-tied, beaded, and skin weft technology with a water-resistant spine and 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair.

Key Features:

• Ethically Sourced: 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair

• No-Return Hair: Complete client comfort with no scalp irritation, itching, or matting

• Hybrid Technology: Special blend of skin weft and hand-tied weft benefits

• Water-Resistant Spine: Anti-microbial weft prevents water retention for faster drying

• Easy Install & Removal: Lay-flat flexible panels for comfortable, discreet wear

• Exclusive Color Range: Pre-toned professional shades with subtle highlights and lowlights

• Available Lengths: 16" (40g), 20" (50g), 24" (60g)

• Specifications: 1 x 33" weft per pack

• Reusable: Long-lasting with proper care

Why Choose INH Pro Genius Wefts:

Experience the most comfortable, seamless hair extensions on the market. The ultra-thin spine and no-return hair design eliminate the irritation and matting common with traditional wefts, while the water-resistant, anti-microbial construction ensures faster drying and better hygiene. Perfect for medium to thick hair and active lifestyles, these extensions offer maximum fullness across large sections. Customers love the "amazing quality," "gorgeous" shades, and note that "the base is so thin and flexible making it great for any client!" The thickness from top to bottom is "chef's kiss." Best for layering and cocktail extension methods.

Installation: 0.5-2 hours | Maintenance: 6-9 weeks | Lifespan: 6-12 months with 90-day warranty

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3. INH Professional - Tape-In Extensions

Description (Tape-In Extensions):

Medical-Grade Adhesive Excellence: INH Professional Tape-In Extensions feature pre-applied, medical-grade hypoallergenic adhesive for quick application and hassle-free removal. These invisible tape extensions use 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair with non-gummy adhesive that ensures secure hold, minimizes irritation, and removes cleanly.

Key Features:

• Ethically Sourced: 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair

• Medical-Grade Hypoallergenic Adhesive: Non-gummy, no heat or oils required

• Easy Install & Removal: Lay-flat flexible panels for comfortable, discreet wear

• Natural & Seamless: Double-drawn from top to bottom for consistent density

• Exclusive Color Range: 30 professional pre-toned shades that blend seamlessly

• Available Lengths: 16", 20", and 22"

• Specifications: 20 pieces per pack (10 sandwiches) | 50 grams per pack | 2.5g per weft | 1.6" weft width

• Long-Lasting: Reusable with proper maintenance

Why Choose INH Pro Tape-Ins:

Perfect for thin to fine hair or clients who prefer a lower-commitment method. The medical-grade hypoallergenic adhesive provides secure hold without irritation, while the invisible design ensures a flawless, natural blend. Double-drawn construction guarantees consistent fullness from roots to ends. No heat or oils needed for application, and removal is clean and gentle. Best quality tape-in hair extensions that install and remove quickly, ideal for busy stylists and clients who want beautiful results without the commitment of sewn wefts.

Installation: 0.5-2 hours | Maintenance: 6-9 weeks | Lifespan: 6-12 months with 90-day warranty

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4. INH Professional - Clip-In Extensions

Description (Clip-In Extensions):

Non-Committal Volume & Length: INH Professional Clip-In Volume Extensions offer premium Remy human hair with strong-hold clips and soft lace for instant fullness and length. Perfect for bridal looks, special occasions, or clients wanting luxury results without semi-permanent installation. Each 7-piece set provides thick volume and density for versatile styling.

Key Features:

• Ethically Sourced: 100% Remy human hair

• All-Day Comfort: Strong-hold rust-proof clips keep extensions firmly in place without pulling

• Soft & Discreet: 7 lay-flat wefts lined with comfortable, flexible lace that contours to scalp

• Customizable Coverage: Extra volume & density for cutting and styling

• Heat Resistant: Up to 320°F for versatile styling options

• Natural & Dimensional Color: Salon professional shades with subtle highlights and lowlights

• Available Lengths: 18" (140g), 20" (160g), 22" (200g)

• Includes: 7 wefts (one 10", one 8", one 6", two 4", two 3") + reusable satin storage bag

Why Choose INH Pro Clip-Ins:

Transform client looks instantly with these premium clip-in extensions featuring secure clips with soft lace and even density for natural, seamless blending. The strong-hold rust-proof clips keep extensions firmly in place without damage, while the comfortable lace contours to the scalp for all-day wearability. Heat resistant up to 320°F for styling versatility, and customizable for length and style. Hundreds of 5-star reviews praise the "best quality clip-in extensions for a luxurious look for a fraction of the price." Perfect for clients wanting real hair extensions without commitment.

Recommended: 1-2 packs for most hair types | Lifespan: 6 months-2 years with 90-day warranty

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5. INH Professional - Color Swatch Ring

Description (INH Professional Color Swatch Ring):

Essential Color-Matching Tool: The INH Professional Color Swatch Ring is your ultimate go-to for flawless color matching. Featuring 40 versatile shades across 3 color families, this professional tool uses the same 100% cuticle-intact virgin Remy hair as INH Tape-In and Genius Weft Extensions, ensuring accurate color matches that guarantee client satisfaction.

Key Features:

• 40 Professional Shades: Versatile range across 3 color families

• 100% Cuticle-Intact Remy Hair: Same premium quality as professional extensions

• Accurate Color Matching: Ensures perfect shade selection for every client

• Professional Quality: Crafted specifically for hair professionals

• Comprehensive Range: Covers all major color families for precision matching

• Essential Tool: Streamlines color selection process

• Durable Construction: Built for daily salon use

Why Choose INH Pro Color Swatch Ring:

Easily find the perfect shade for every client with this indispensable color-matching tool. Crafted for hair professionals who demand precision and quality, this pro color ring uses the exact same best quality 100% virgin cuticle hair as INH extensions, ensuring an accurate color match that clients will love. Streamline your color selection process and guarantee client satisfaction every time. Perfect for stylists who want to eliminate guesswork and provide confident color recommendations.

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6. INH Professional - Training Hair Weft

Description (INH Pro Training Hair Weft):

Master Your Weft Techniques: INH Pro Training Hair is designed for stylists who want to refine hair styling skills after completing an INH Genius Weft education course. This practice weft is ideal for mastering hair extension installation and cutting techniques on mannequin heads, providing reliable testing material for skill development.

Key Features:

• Practice-Grade Hair: Reliable testing material for technique refinement

• Ideal for Education: Perfect for post-course skill development

• Mannequin-Ready: Designed for use on training heads

• Natural Black Color: 1B shade for versatile practice

• Specifications: 10" length | 15 grams | 30" wide weft

• Cost-Effective: Affordable option for building confidence

• Not for Client Use: Training purposes only

Why Choose INH Pro Training Hair:

Elevate your expertise with practice hair designed specifically for skill refinement. Perfect for stylists mastering installation and cutting techniques after education courses. Customers say "for the cost I was EXTREMELY impressed with the quality" and are "happy they had this option so I could play around with a new sewing method." Build confidence before working on clients with this reliable, cost-effective training tool. IMPORTANT: This practice hair does not match premium extension quality, intended as reliable tester only, not suitable for toning, chemical alterations, or professional client use.

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7. INH Professional - K-Tip Education Practice Hair Bundle

Description (K-Tip Education Practice Hair Bundle):

Master K-Tip Application: The K-Tip Education Practice Hair Bundle features regular human hair in natural black with black keratin tips, using the same high-quality 100% Italian keratin glue with embossed guidelines as professional K-Tips. This bundle provides the exact feel and technique training you need to build confidence before working on clients.

Key Features:

• Authentic Training: Same 100% Italian keratin glue as professional K-Tips

• Embossed Guidelines: Practice precision cutting to pointed, half, or micro tips

• Natural Black Hair: With matching black keratin tips

• 50 Strands Included: Ample practice material for skill development

• Realistic Technique Training: Exact feel of professional application

• Confidence Building: Perfect for pre-client practice

• Not for Client Use: Training purposes only

Why Choose K-Tip Education Practice Bundle:

Master your craft with training hair that gives you the exact feel and technique experience you need. Features the same high-quality 100% Italian keratin glue with embossed guidelines as professional K-Tips, ensuring your practice translates directly to client work. With 50 strands included, you can build confidence and refine your application technique before working on clients. Perfect for stylists learning fusion methods or perfecting precision placement. Practice makes perfect, starting with authentic materials.

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FAQs

How often should I wash my hair extensions?

Wash your extensions 2-3 times per week using sulfate-free shampoo to maintain cleanliness without stripping natural oils. Over-washing causes dryness and brittleness, while under-washing leads to product buildup and scalp issues. Always use lukewarm water and wash in the shower with your head tilted back to prevent tangling. For permanent extensions, wait 48 hours after initial installation before the first wash to allow the adhesive to fully bond.

Can I use regular shampoo and conditioner on extensions?

You should use sulfate-free, extension-safe products specifically formulated for hair extensions. Regular shampoos contain harsh sulfates that strip protective oils and cause extensions to become dry, brittle, and prone to tangling. Choose moisturizing formulas with nourishing ingredients like argan oil or shea butter, and always keep conditioner away from bonds or tape attachments, where it can cause slippage.

Why are my extensions tangling so much?

Excessive tangling usually results from insufficient brushing, sleeping with wet hair, or skipping daily separation at the roots. Brush your extensions at least twice daily using a loop brush or wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working upward. Apply lightweight leave-in conditioner daily to maintain moisture and prevent dryness that leads to tangling. Always braid hair loosely before bed and use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction.

How do I know when to schedule my next maintenance appointment?

Schedule maintenance based on your extension type: tape-ins every 4-8 weeks, micro-rings every 6-10 weeks, and K-tips every 3 months. Signs you need immediate attention include visible matting at roots, slipping bonds or tapes, noticeable gaps as hair grows, or uncomfortable tension. Book your next appointment before leaving the salon to maintain consistent care. Waiting longer than recommended can damage natural hair and require additional removal fees.

Can I color or bleach my hair extensions?

Professional-grade extensions from quality suppliers come pre-toned in various shades to eliminate the need for coloring. If you must color extensions, consult your stylist first, as bleaching and harsh chemicals can damage the hair cuticle and reduce lifespan. Remy human hair extensions accept color better than synthetic options, but always use professional-grade products and techniques. Consider purchasing extensions in your desired shade rather than attempting to color them yourself for the best results.

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