How Long Do Human Hair Extensions Last? 

by Alex Haymes
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How Long Do Human Hair Extensions Last? 

In this article, we'll look at how long the different types of human hair extensions can last, and what you can do to give them the longest life possible. 

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Human hair extensions are a more natural-looking alternative to traditional synthetic extensions. Incredibly versatile, durable, and seamless with the right shade match, human extensions are an excellent choice. However, the higher price of human hair is bound to make you ask how long human hair extensions last? 

In this blog, we'll look at how long the different types of human hair extensions can last, and how you can get the most longevity out of your extensions through aftercare. 

  • How Long Do Human Hair Extensions Last? 
  • Getting the Most Our of Your Human Hair Extensions

How Long Do Human Hair Extensions Last? 

The lifespan of human hair extensions can depend on multiple factors, the main two being the type of hair and the type of extension.

How Long Do the Different Types of Human Hair Last? 

Remy and Virgin Remy hair is usually more likely to last longer than non-remy, purely due to the hair quality being used. For more details on the different types of human hair, read our blog, Human Hair Extensions: Explained

Non-Remy Human Hair can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, while Remy and Virgin Remy Human Hair can last from 3-6 months with the right care and attention. 

How Long Do the Different Types of Human Hair Extension Last? 

With the proper care, sew-in hair extensions can last 6-8 weeks, while tape-in hair extensions can last from 4-8 weeks. Fusion hair extensions, similar to nano-ring extensions, can last from 3-4 months. These types of extensions must be installed by professionals, and due to their semi-permanence, face daily wear. 

Clip-in hair extensions, however, can last between 3-6 months, depending on the frequency of wear, how they are stored, and the aftercare they receive. 

Getting the Most Our of Your Human Hair Extensions

The key to getting the most out of your human hair extensions and giving them the longest life possible is simple TLC. Taking good care of your extensions through proper maintenance is vital in ensuring that your extensions look good and last. 

For the types of extensions installed by professionals (ie. tape, ring, fusion, sew-in), regular maintenance appointments and listening to the advice of your stylist is imperative. However, here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of your human hair extensions through proper maintenance and a good routine. 

Washing Your Human Hair Extensions

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Washing your human hair extensions is a very important part of the aftercare process, regardless of the extension type. When it comes to washing your extensions, make sure you follow this advice: 

  • Detangle them before washing using a wide-toothed comb or a hair extension brush
  • Ensure you're using an alcohol and sulfate-free shampoo
  • Use a high-quality, moisturising conditioner from the mid-lengths to the ends of the extensions and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly
  • Gently pat the hair dry using a microfibre towel to avoid breakage 
  • Allow the hair to air dry if possible, and if you are using a blow dryer, use a low heat setting and a light, good-quality heat protectant

Sleeping in Your Human Hair Extensions

With semi-permanent hair extensions installed by professionals, it's important to wear your hair in a more protective style when you go to bed. It's recommended that you ensure that your extensions are thoroughly detangled, before putting your hair into a loose braid or ponytail before bed to protect the hair extensions. 

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TOP TIP: Sleeping on a satin pillowcase or in a silk bonnet helps reduce friction and can be gentler on the hair

It's not recommended to sleep in clip-in human hair extensions, however. It can lead to an uncomfortable night's sleep, skin irritation, and damage to your own hair and the extensions. 
You can read more about this on our blog, Can You Sleep in Clip-in Hair Extensions? 

At Stranded, we'd recommend storing your clip in extensions in an extension bag, or in the box that ours come in. 

Styling Your Human Hair Extensions

When styling your human extensions, it's important to avoid excessive heat where possible. It's good practice to limit the use of heat styling tools, but this isn't always doable.

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When you do use these tools, make sure you use them at lower temperatures (ideally no higher than 180c) to prevent damage to the extensions and your natural hair and always apply a lightweight but effective heat protectant.

Any styling products you use should be sulfate-free and lightweight to avoid unnecessary build-up. 

Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush
Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush
Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush
Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush
Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush
Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush

Stranded Smooth Finish Extension Brush

£9.00

Description

Glide through your hair extensions with the Smooth Finish Extension Brush. Anti static boar bristles smooth and tame flyaway hairs, to create a flawless tangle-free finish. The ergonomically designed handle is soft and comfortable to hold.

It’s a must have product if you have hair extensions.

Main features

  • Natural bristle fibres
  • Lightweight
  • Ergonomic handle
  • For natural hair & hair extensions
  • Eco-Friendly packaging
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    Conclusion

     The lifespan of your human hair extensions depends on a few factors; the type of hair, the type of extension, and the aftercare. We've given you some handy tips and tricks to extend the life of your human hair extensions, so the rest is up to you! 

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    Why not check out some of our other articles? Or if you're a more visual learner, why not look at some of our handy How-To Videos?