When using hair extensions, it's essential to be mindful of the products you use to maintain the longevity and health of both your natural hair and the extensions. Using the wrong products can lead to damage, tangling, or premature shedding of the extensions. Even the highest quality hair extensions (such as Beauvoir Hair extensions) need to be properly cared for in order to increase the longevity of the hair. Here's a comprehensive guide on what products to avoid when using hair extensions:
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Products with Sulfates:
- Avoid shampoos and conditioners containing sulfates, as they can strip the hair of its natural oils and make it dry and brittle. Opt for sulfate-free products that are gentler on both your natural hair and the extensions.
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Alcohol-Based Hair Sprays and Products:
- Products containing high levels of alcohol can be drying and damaging to both your natural hair and extensions. Avoid hairsprays, gels, and styling products with alcohol as a primary ingredient.
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Heavy Oils and Silicone-Based Products:
- While some hair oils and silicone-based products can be beneficial for natural hair, they can be too heavy for hair extensions, causing them to become greasy and weighed down. If you choose to use these products, apply them sparingly and avoid the roots of the extensions.
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Heat Protectants with High Alcohol Content:
- Heat protectants are essential when using hot styling tools. However, avoid those with high alcohol content, as they can dry out the hair and weaken the bond between your natural hair and the extensions. Look for alcohol-free heat protectants.
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Purple or Silver Shampoos:
- These shampoos are designed to tone and neutralize yellow or brassy tones in blonde hair. However, they can also affect the color and tone of hair extensions, especially if they are not made from natural human hair. Use these products sparingly or avoid them altogether.
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Clarifying Shampoos:
- Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup and can be too harsh for hair extensions. They may strip away the natural oils that help keep extensions soft and manageable. Stick to gentle, sulfate-free shampoos.
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Overly Moisturizing or Heavy Conditioners:
- Extensions don't receive natural oils from the scalp, so they don't require the same level of moisture as your natural hair. Avoid heavy or overly moisturizing conditioners, as they can lead to product buildup and make the extensions look limp.
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Products with Harsh Chemicals:
- Stay away from hair products containing harsh chemicals like formaldehyde, parabens, and sulfites. These can damage both your natural hair and the extensions and may cause allergic reactions.
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Tangling Hair Products:
- Avoid products that create tangles or knots in the hair, such as sticky pomades or products that leave residue. These can lead to tangling with the extensions, making them difficult to manage.
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Oil-Based Styling Products Near Attachment Points:
- If your extensions are bonded or taped near the scalp, be cautious about using oil-based styling products too close to the attachment points. Oil can weaken the bonds and cause the extensions to slip or shed prematurely.
