Hair Extension Maintenance & Aftercare Guide

General Maintenance

To keep your Kioma. Hair extensions looking their best and lasting longer, follow these care tips:

  • Water Quality Matters: Use a water filter to reduce mineral buildup that can cause dryness and dullness.

  • Secure Your Extensions: Always tie your hair in a loose ponytail or braid while sleeping, exercising, or in windy conditions to prevent tangling and strain on bonds.

Pre & Post-Installation Care

Before Your Appointment:

  • Wash hair thoroughly with a clarifying shampoo to remove oils, residue, or product buildup.

  • Ensure your hair is completely dry for a secure attachment.

After Installation:

  • Wait 24-48 hours before washing to allow bonds to set properly.

  • Use dry shampoo on the roots if needed to absorb oil and prevent excessive handling.

Routine & Chemical Care

  • Avoid DIY Chemical Treatments: Coloring, perming, or relaxing hair can weaken both natural hair and extensions—always consult a professional.

  • Regular Maintenance: Schedule touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to prevent tangling, slippage, and extension shedding.

Washing Best Practices

  • Wash your hair 2-3 times per week with sulfate-free, alcohol-free shampoo and conditioner to prevent dryness.

  • Double Shampoo: First wash removes oil and buildup, while the second ensures a thorough cleanse.

Conditioning Best Practices

  • Apply only to mid-lengths and ends to avoid loosening the bonds.
  • Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner to maintain moisture without weighing hair down.

  • Detangle Before Washing: Use a wide-tooth comb or extension-safe brush to prevent knots from tightening when wet.

Brushing & Detangling Techniques

  • Brush at least twice daily to prevent matting and tangles.

  • Use the right tools: Choose an extension-safe brush (loop brush, boar bristle brush, or wide-tooth comb).

  • Start from the bottom: Hold hair at the roots and detangle from the ends, working your way up to avoid pulling on bonds.

  • Carry a travel-size brush for touch-ups throughout the day.

  • Never brush wet hair, as it’s more prone to breakage. Instead, gently detangle with fingers or a wide-tooth comb while applying conditioner.

Drying & Styling

  • Pat hair dry with a microfiber towel instead of rubbing to minimize frizz and breakage.

  • Blow-dry properly: Use medium heat, directing airflow downward to prevent frizz. Always dry the bonds first before the rest of the hair.

Heat Styling

  • Always apply a heat protectant before using hot tools.
  • Use styling tools on low to medium heat to prevent damage.
  • Avoid direct heat on tape-ins, bonds, or wefts at the point of attachment.
  • Limit heavy styling products like gels and mousses, which cause buildup and require frequent washing.

Swimming & Sun Exposure

  • Before Swimming:

    • Wet hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to create a protective barrier.

    • Braid hair loosely to prevent tangling.

  • After Swimming:

    • Rinse thoroughly immediately after swimming to remove chlorine or saltwater.

    • Follow up with a hydrating mask weekly if swimming frequently.

  • Sunscreen Warning: Many sunscreens contain avobenzone, which can discolor extensions—use an extension-safe sunscreen instead.

Nighttime Care

  • Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent breakage.

  • Tie hair in a loose braid, low ponytail, or use a silk bonnet to keep extensions from tangling overnight.

  • Never sleep with wet hair, as it weakens bonds and leads to matting.

Final Tips for Longevity

  • Follow routine maintenance schedules for adjustments and tightening.

  • Use sulfate-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free products to maintain extension integrity.

  • Minimize exposure to chlorine, saltwater, and hard water to prevent dryness and tangling.

  • Deep condition with a lightweight, extension-safe mask once a month to maintain softness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Excessive Heat Styling – Overusing hot tools can cause dryness and shorten extension lifespan.

  2. Leaving Hair Up for Days – Consistently keeping hair tied up without brushing leads to tangling.

  3. Incorrect Sunscreen Use – Chemical ingredients can cause discoloration; opt for extension-safe formulas.

  4. Heavy Product Buildup – Overusing oils, creams, and sprays makes extensions greasy and difficult to clean.

Quick Dos & Don’ts

✅ Dos:
✔ Brush twice daily with an extension-safe brush.
✔ Wash hair 2-3 times a week using sulfate-free products.
✔ Apply lightweight oil or serum to the ends for hydration.
✔ Sleep on a silk pillowcase and secure hair at night.

❌ Don’ts:
✖ Never sleep with wet hair—this causes tangling and damage.
✖ Avoid excessive heat styling—use low settings and always apply heat protectant.
✖ Don’t leave hair in a tight ponytail or bun for extended periods—this stresses the bonds.
✖ Skip heavy styling products—they cause buildup and require frequent washing.

By following these detailed yet streamlined guidelines, you can keep your Kioma Hair extensions looking beautiful, healthy, and long-lasting!