How to Wash Extensions Without Damaging them: A Stylist’s Guide

Christina Angeline Fuentes
Sep 19
3 min read

How to wash your hair extensions without damaging

Why Washing Extensions the Right Way Matters

Extensions are an investment, not just financially, but in your confidence and daily style. Yet one of the most common reasons clients end up replacing wefts too soon is improper washing. Shampooing too aggressively, scrubbing the wrong way, or using products that don’t belong anywhere near extensions can all shorten their lifespan.

As a stylist with years of experience in extension care, I’m breaking down the exact method I teach my clients. With this system, you’ll keep your extensions soft, shiny, and flawless, without unnecessary damage.

Step 1: Prep Before You Shower

Before any water touches your hair, start by brushing thoroughly. This prevents matting and ensures shampoo distributes evenly.

Tools you’ll need:

A gentle detangling brush (like the Mane Ivy brush)
A wide-tooth comb for sectioning
A large clip to separate your extensions if needed

💡 Pro tip: Always brush from ends to roots in small sections to avoid tension at your attachment points.

Step 2: Pre-Wash if You’ve Used Dry Shampoo or Styling Products

If you’ve gone several days without washing or used a lot of dry shampoo, buildup is inevitable. This is where a pre-wash scalp cleanse comes in, like Nutrafol Build Up Blocker or Innersense Detox Hair Mask

Apply Scalp Cleanse directly to your scalp.
Use a scalp brush in up-and-down motions only (never circular—circular motions will tangle extensions fast).
Rinse thoroughly.

This step clears product buildup, excess oil, and impurities so your shampoo can actually do its job.

Step 3: Shampoo with Care

Now you’re ready for your primary wash.

Choose a sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoo like Ilse Formula Haute Performace Shampoo.
Apply shampoo to your scalp and gently massage with fingertips or scalp brush in straight motions.
Avoid scrubbing the ends of your extensions. Instead, let the suds naturally flow down the length of your hair.
If your ends feel extra oily, apply shampoo gently, but no friction.

💡 Pro tip: If you have hard water, switch to Iles Hard Water Shampoo once a month, this helps gently cleanse without aggressively stripping the hair.

Step 4: Condition & Mask the Right Way

Conditioner and masks are key for softness, but placement matters.

Apply Iles Conditioner only from mid-lengths to ends.
Never apply conditioner to the root or bond area, it can cause slippage or premature breakdown.
Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.

💡 Pro tip: Once a week, swap your regular conditioner for a mask to deeply nourish and protect extensions.

Step 5: Rinse & Detangle Gently

Use lukewarm water for your final rinse (not too hot, which dries out extensions).
Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt.
Apply a leave-in conditioner or detangler before brushing.
Brush starting from the ends, working up to the scalp, always supporting your bonds with your hand.

Extension Washing FAQs

How often should I wash my extensions?

Most extension wearers only need 1–2 washes per week, depending on activity level and scalp oiliness. Over-washing = dryness. Under-washing = buildup.

Can I use purple shampoo on extensions?

Yes, but with caution. Choose a stylist-approved formula and dilute it to prevent uneven tones on extensions, and don't use it often. Only when needed.

Do I need special water filters?

Hard water can cause dullness or dryness in extensions. A shower filter is a great investment.

Products I Recommend for Washing Extensions

Shampoo: Ilse Formula Haute Performance
Conditioner: Ilse Formula Haute Performance
Mask: Ilse Formula Mask
Scalp Cleanse: Nutrafol exfoliating Scalp Mask
Brush: Mane Ivy Detangling Brush
Wide-Tooth Comb: Wide Tooth Comb
Silk Pillowcase: Kitsch Silk Pillowcase (to protect extensions overnight)

Final Thoughts

Extensions don’t have to be high-maintenance, but they do require mindful care. By prepping properly, cleansing gently, and conditioning strategically, you’ll extend the life of your hair and keep every strand looking fresh.

✨ Want to learn everything about extension maintenance? Grab my Ultimate Guide to Flawless Extensions for pro secrets, checklists, and my exact product recommendations.