There’s nothing more jarring than reaching up to adjust your hair mid-day, only to feel an extension piece slipping loose—or worse, finding it on your shoulder. If your extensions seem to “give up” weeks before they should, the culprit is rarely low-quality products alone; more often, it’s small, daily habits that chip away at their hold. Let’s break down the root causes (pun intended) and the simple fixes to keep your extensions locked in securely:
- Ditch the rough handling (your extensions hate it) Tight hairstyles like high ponytails, sleek buns, or even overly taut headbands put constant tension on extension bonds—over time, this pulls the adhesive away from your natural hair. Opt for loose styles (think: low messy buns, half-up half-down with soft ties) instead. When brushing, grab a wide-tooth comb (never a fine-tooth brush!) and start detangling at the ends: work through knots gently, then slowly move up toward the roots. Dragging a brush straight through the extension attachment points is a surefire way to yank pieces loose. Even something as simple as towel-drying too vigorously can cause damage—pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel instead of rubbing it back and forth.
- Swap your hair products (the wrong formulas break bonDSSds) Many popular hair products are secret enemies of extensions. Alcohol-based shampoos, clarifying cleansers, and heavy, sticky gels can dissolve tape adhesives or weaken glue bonds over 2–3 washes. Instead, stock up on sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoos (look for labels like “extension-safe”)—these clean without stripping the bond. Conditioner is a must, but avoid applying it directly to the roots or attachment points, as it can make the adhesive slippery. When rinsing, tilt your head back: hot water directly hitting extension roots softens glue/tape, so keep the stream focused on the mid-lengths and ends instead. For styling, choose lightweight serums or mousses that won’t weigh down the extensions or clog the bonds.
- Book regular “extension check-ins” (maintenance = longevity) Even if your extensions feel “fine,” they need professional attention every 4–6 weeks. Here’s why: your natural hair grows about ½ inch per month, so extensions shift away from the scalp over time—this creates gaps that make bonds looser. During a check-in, your stylist will test bond strength, re-adhere any loose pieces with fresh adhesive, and reposition extensions to match your hair’s growth. They might also trim the ends of the extensions to keep them looking fresh and prevent split ends, which can make the hair feel thinner and more prone to tangling. Skipping these appointments is the #1 reason extensions fall out prematurely—don’t skip them!
Pro Tip: If you’re in a pinch and notice a loose extension, use a small amount of extension-safe bond glue (available at beauty supply stores) to re-tack it temporarily—just avoid getting the glue on your natural hair strands!