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Hair Salon Blog: Essential Hair Care Tips and Insights

How to Sleep Comfortably with Hair Extensions

How to Sleep Comfortably with Hair Extensions Image

Extensions are a fantastic way to add body, length, and style to your hair, but they require careful maintenance if you want them to look fabulous for as long as possible. Part of that maintenance includes nighttime care. Not only can your extensions tangle, dry out, and begin shedding if you sleep on them wrong, but they can also be uncomfortable.

Learning how to sleep with hair extensions can be a game-changer for your look, your wallet, and your sleep hygiene—and Therapy Hair Studio is here to help you do it. 

Why Sleeping with Hair Extensions the Right Way Matters

Careful hair extension maintenance is crucial for making the most of your investment, as the lifespan of your extensions depends quite a bit on how well you care for them—even after you go to sleep. Tossing and turning on your extensions can put stress on both them and your natural hair, leading to tangling, shedding, breakage, and scalp discomfort over time.

Fortunately, there are some simple solutions to these issues. Adjusting your nighttime routine with hair extension maintenance in mind can preserve the quality of your extensions, protect your natural hair, and reduce your morning haircare routine. 

Adjusting Care Based on Extension Type

Different styles of hair extensions require slightly different nighttime strategies. Here’s how you can care for your hair after bed, based on the hair extensions you use.

Hand-Tied Extensions

Hand-tied extensions are known for their durability, but they can still use some extra care before bed to keep them looking healthy and beautiful for as long as possible. Use a wide-toothed or boar-bristle brush to gently detangle, starting from the ends and working upward. Consider braiding hair at night with a loose braid or low ponytail with a soft scrunchie for tangling prevention.

Tape-In Extensions

Friction from your pillow can loosen the adhesive on your tape-ins over time, and moisture can wear away at it. Using a silk pillowcase or satin bonnet to reduce friction and ensure that your hair is totally dry before bed can help maintain the quality of your extensions and extend their lifespan.

Keratin Bonds

Keratin bond, or fusion, extensions need to be handled extra gently. Brush before bed with a gentle brush, and consider protective hairstyles like loose braids or low ponytails that don’t create tension at the hair root. These little tweaks to your hair extension care routine also double as some nighttime frizz control.    

Clip-In Extensions

Clip-ins should always be removed before bed. Leaving them in overnight can place unnecessary stress on your roots and shorten the lifespan of the extensions unnecessarily. Store them in a breathable box or bag before bed to keep them tangle-free and well-protected until it’s time to use them again.

Sew-In Extensions

Sew-in extensions are stitched into your natural hair, making them one of the durable, secure types of extensions. However, sleeping with sew-ins still requires some careful maintenance. To protect your extensions overnight, gently brush to detangle, then tie your hair in a loose braid or cover it with a silk or satin bonnet. This prevents pillow friction and helps maintain moisture. 

What to Avoid When Sleeping with Hair Extensions

Hairdresser applying hair extensions to blonde hair using a clip-in method.

Regardless of the style of hair extensions you have, there are certain things you should avoid at all costs if you want to prevent nighttime damage. Those things include the following:

  • Sleeping with Wet Hair: Hair is more fragile when wet, and extra moisture can weaken the bonds or adhesive that holds your extensions together. Always let your hair dry out completely before going to bed, and if you use a blow dryer, keep it on cool or medium setting.
  • Using a Cotton Pillowcase: They may be comfortable enough to you, but cotton pillowcases create friction on your sensitive extensions overnight, causing them to tangle, frizz, dry out, and wear down. Opting for a silk or satin pillowcase or wrapping your hair in bonnet before bed can help minimize friction, protect your extensions, and keep you comfortable.
  • Tight Hairstyles: Tight buns, high ponytails, and other restrictive hairstyles create tension on your scalp and at the extension attachment points. This can cause scalp discomfort, tension headaches, hair breakage, or even traction alopecia. Opt for a loose low braid, ponytail, or soft twist with a soft scrunchie instead.
  • Skipping Regular Maintenance: Even the most dedicated at-home care routine can only go so far. Schedule regular appointments with your stylist to touch up and adjust your extensions, and they will stay looking great for a far longer time.

 Schedule Your Appointment Today

Your extensions should make you feel fabulous, not frustrated. Using these nighttime care tips can go a long way, but you still need regular maintenance from your stylist to make the most of your investment. Contact Therapy Hair Studio today to schedule your appointment.


Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Hair Extensions

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Hair Extensions Image

Hair extensions can transform your hair, adding length and volume and boosting your confidence. However, like all beauty investments, they don’t last forever. Whether you’ve got tape-ins, clip-ins, or sew-ins, knowing when to replace your hair extensions is the key to keeping your hair looking fantastic. That begins with understanding how long different types of extensions typically last, how to tell when it’s time for replacement, and some tips for making the most of your investment. 

How Long Different Hair Extensions Typically Last

The lifespan of your hair extensions depends on a few key factors, including the type of extension, your regular hair care routine, and how often you visit your stylist for hair extension maintenance. Here’s a breakdown based on extension type: 

  • Tape-In Extensions: These last around six to eight weeks before needing to be removed and re-taped. With proper care, the hair can be reused up to three times, providing a total lifespan of about four to six months.
  • Clip-In Extensions: Clip-ins are not worn daily, which helps extend their lifespan. Typically, these extensions can last from six months to a year, possibly even longer if you take great care of them.
  • Sew-In Weaves: These last around six to eight weeks before they need adjustment. If the hair is high quality, it can last up to a year with good care and regular extension reapplication.
  • Keratin Bond/Fusion Extensions: Depending on quality of care and hair growth, fusion extensions can last anywhere from three to four months. 

Signs It’s Time to Replace Hair Extensions

The estimated lifespans of extensions are a valuable rule of thumb, but it’s also essential to watch for signs that replacement or adjustment is necessary. Some of the most common signs to look for include the following:

Hair Matting and Tangling

Even the highest quality extensions will eventually dry out and become damaged over time. If your extensions are constantly tangling, especially near the bonds or at the nape of your neck, this is a telltale sign that they’re probably ready for retirement.

Excessive Shedding

Shedding and tangling are the two most obvious signs that your extensions are on their way out. When you find clumps of extension hair in your hairbrush, shower drain, or on your clothes, it means the structure of the extensions is worn out and breaking down. In time, you’ll notice the extensions thinning out and losing volume.

Visible Tape or Bonds

If you can spot the bonds or tape attachments without lifting the hair, it’s a clear sign that your extensions have grown out too far or slipped from their original position. This is not only an aesthetic issue, but too much strain can affect your natural roots as the weight distribution of your extensions shifts.

Itchiness or Scalp Discomfort

As your extensions grow, they can pull on your scalp, causing tension headaches, irritation, itchiness, and general discomfort. If your scalp feels tight, sore, or itchy even after washing it, your extensions likely need maintenance or replacement.

Loose or Slipping Extensions

Extension slippage can indicate that they are no longer secure, and you should see your stylist. This not only affects the appearance and feel of your hair, but it can also damage your natural hair by putting undue strain on it. 

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Hair Extensions

Stylist attaching hair extensions using a fusion technique

While there is always a shelf life on extensions, diligent at-home care and regular salon maintenance can make a tremendous difference in the lifespan of your investment. If you want to make the most of your extensions, follow these tips:

  • Brush Often (and Gently): Detangle your extensions daily by gently brushing with a wide-tooth comb or loop brush. Start from the bottom and work your way up to avoid unnecessary stress on the bonds.
  • Prepare for Bed: Your extensions can easily tangle while you sleep if you’re not careful. To avoid this, tie your hair up in a low ponytail or loose braid, and consider using a satin or silk pillowcase for reduced friction.
  • Use the Right Products: Your haircare products should protect both your natural hair health and the health of your extensions. That means sticking with sulfate-free, extension safe shampoos and conditioners.
  • Don’t Overheat: Most high quality extensions are designed for use with heat tools, but you still shouldn’t overdo it. Excessive heat will dry out and damage your extensions prematurely.
  • Schedule Regular Maintenance: Maximizing the lifespan of your extensions requires regular visits to your stylist. Schedule a touch-up appointment every six to eight weeks. 

Schedule Your Extension Touch-Up with Therapy Hair Studio

The experts at Therapy Hair Studio can keep your extensions looking healthy, natural, and beautiful. If you notice any tangling and matting, scalp discomfort, or extension slippage, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

 


The Long-Term Effects of Brazilian Blowouts on Your Hair

The Long-Term Effects of Brazilian Blowouts on Your Hair imageA Brazilian blowout is a popular and effective treatment for people who want to reduce frizz and straighten their hair. It helps to cut down on styling time in the morning by making your hair-do a little more manageable. This is especially true in a humid environment like Houston, Texas.

However, many people wonder, does a Brazilian blowout damage hair? At Therapy Hair Studio, we’re here to help you stay informed about the treatments you’re considering for your hair. Understanding the facts so you can make informed decisions is important for the long-term health of your locks.

Does Brazilian Blowout Damage Hair?

It’s important to understand how the treatment works to understand any risks associated with a Brazilian blowout. A stylist will apply a smoothing solution to your hair and then seal it in with heat. This solution is usually keratin-based, creating a protective protein layer around your hair shaft. The effects of this process will typically last for up to twelve weeks.

Knowing the ingredients in the formula you plan to use in your hair is crucial. The use of formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing chemicals is effective in bonding the keratin to your hair shaft. However, there are concerns with these formulas. Although a Brazilian blowout is generally safe, formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing chemicals can present risks. Prolonged exposure can cause scalp irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term damage. For a safe treatment, look for:

  • A formaldehyde-free formula
  • Amino acid-based treatments
  • Brands that disclose all ingredients clearly
  • Salon ventilation

Signs Your Brazilian Blowout May Be Causing Damage

A Brazilian blowout is a chemical treatment, which means there will always be a danger of damage present. Your hair might be overprocessed if you see dryness, split ends, or dullness right after your treatment. If you see hair breakage after a Brazilian blowout, consider giving your hair a break from chemical treatments. In severe cases, hair loss from Brazilian blowouts is possible. This is not common, but it’s usually tied to overuse of the treatment.

How Often Is Too Often?

Because overusing a Brazilian blowout treatment can lead to hair breakage and hair loss, it’s important to maintain a healthy schedule. It’s recommended to keep treatments twelve weeks apart. This will help leave your hair with its natural moisture and protein and prevent breakage.

Understanding Brazilian Blowout Risks

There are risks to every chemical treatment you introduce to your body, no matter what kind of treatment it is. Brazilian blowouts are no exceptions. The side effects of Brazilian blowouts include more than just cosmetic issues. These health concerns include:

  • Breathing in vapors
  • Irritation in eyes, nose, and lungs
  • Coughing and wheezing
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Skin sensitivity
  • Allergic reactions

These risks all center around formaldehyde in the hair treatment formula. Always ask your stylist about the product ingredients and opt for a formaldehyde-free Brazilian blowout whenever possible.

How to Promote Healthy Hair After a Brazilian Blowout

Even though there are risks with chemical hair treatments, there are ways you can help your hair have a safe, effective Brazilian blowout. These care tips include:

  • Use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to preserve your treatment and prevent further drying.
  • Use a deep conditioning mask once a week to restore moisture.
  • Give your hair a break from heat and let it air dry for a while after treatment.
  • Use thermal protectant spray before using flat or curling irons.
  • Treat damage early to restore your hair’s health.

Safe and Effective Alternatives to Brazilian Blowouts

Stylist blow-drying brown hair with a round brushWhen applied properly, a Brazilian blowout can be perfectly safe. However, there are many alternatives that offer the same smoothing benefits with fewer chemicals. Ask your stylist about:

  • Hair Botox
  • Thermal Reconditioning
  • Silk Press
  • Deep Conditioning and Frizz Control Masks

An alternative might be better depending on your hair type and individual concerns. The biggest drawback to most of these solutions is that they don’t last as long or give quite as outstanding results as a Brazilian blowout. However, if your hair is thin, color-treated, or damaged already, these alternatives might be better for your hair in the long run.

The Healthy Approach

While Brazilian blowouts provide beautiful, immediate benefits, they can also pose long-term risks if applied improperly. At Therapy Hair Studio, we want you to have a healthy Brazilian blowout experience. We only use the cleanest products available and take care in our application process.

If you’re looking for a trusted salon in Houston that prioritizes your hair’s health, schedule a consultation with our stylists at Therapy Hair Studio to discuss your needs and learn more about our smoothing treatments.