Finally, you have the the perfect icy, blonde hair of your dreams and a brand new row of extensions! You leave the salon feeling like a brand new person, but then you come home and ask yourself, now what? Well, that's why I'm here to help navigate your way through the complex world of blonding and extension care! With my simple guide, your hair will like you just stepped out of my salon!
Washing
Avoid washing your hair often, once to twice a week is ideal. Keep your hair looking freshly washed by using dry shampoo or try a simple heatless hairstyle! It'll be our little secret;)
Ensure your shampoo and conditioner do not contain sodium chloride or ammonium laurel sulfate, these ingredients will strip your color/gloss out. I always recommend using a salon quality shampoo to maintain your color.
Blonding services tend to dry out the hair; to prevent this, use a hydrating mask once a week to maintain the moisture and shine.
After you step out of the shower, don't brush your hair! This may seem strange, considering it'll be a tangled mess, but resist the urge! Blondes and extensions are especially delicate when wet, so it is imperative to wait until your hair is at least 85% dry until you begin brushing. In the meantime, spray a leave-in conditioner and use a clear oil throughout your hair. Check your email, cook yourself dinner, anything but brush your hair!
Once you promise your hair is 85% dry, you can begin brushing but starting at the ends first and slowly working your way up. Always brush in between extensions rows and natural hair with a detangle brush ( I recommend a Wet Brush) to avoid matting or unwanted tangles.
Lifestyle
Your friends invite you to the beach, your so excited! But you ask the all important question, what about my extensions and my beautiful icy hair? Have no fear. you can jump in the water like the mermaid you are! Just make sure to spray your trusty leave-in conditioner when your done. However, when it comes to your cousins pool party, I recommend avoiding chlorine by keeping your hair up and out of the water.
Windy day in the forecast? Try braiding your hair or gently pulling it up into a low ponytail or bun to avoid any knotting or matting of the extensions.
Avoid slathering sunscreen all over your face like your an extra in Bay Watch, the chemicals in the sunscreen will make your extensions turn an unsightly shade of peach and your hair will need to be replaced.
Styling
Avoid blowdrying your hair as much as possible. Try out a viral heatless hairstyle, braid it, or simply work with what you have just let it air dry! However, when you absolutely need a silky smooth blow dry, I recommend always attaching the concentrator nozzle to protect your hair from direct heat.
To all those who simply cannot live without their hairspray, I have sad news: hairspray contains mostly alcohol and will dry out the hair. Instead of hairspray, use a dry texture spray to add hold but without the drying properties!
I get it, sleeping in the summer is nearly impossible without putting your hair up. However, this will cause discomfort and will tug on the extensions. Try braiding it or just have someone braid it for you, no shame here!
There you have it, my fool-proof guide to maintaining your brand new hair! If your still confused, I have an in-depth Youtube video complete with all the steps listed above. Good luck and may you have the hair of your dreams! I believe in you;)