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The Complete Hair Extension Care Guide from Our Port Orange Stylists

Geri Buckley Feb 3, 2026

Hair extensions are a transformative service — they add length, volume, and fullness that can completely change the way you feel about your hair. But extensions are also an investment, and the way you care for them at home makes the difference between a set that lasts for months and one that deteriorates quickly. The stylists at Fleur de Lis Salon in Port Orange, FL have been applying and maintaining extensions for years, and we want to set you up for success.

Brush Gently and Consistently

Brushing is one of the most important habits for extension wearers. Use a soft-bristle extension brush or a loop brush designed specifically for extensions, and always brush from the ends upward toward the roots — never yanking downward from the top. Aim to brush at least twice a day to prevent tangles from forming, especially around the attachment points.

Hold the hair near the roots as you brush to avoid putting tension on the bonds or wefts. This protects both the extensions and your natural hair underneath.

Wash with Care

With extensions, less is more when it comes to washing. Three times per week is plenty for most people. Always use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner — sulfates can weaken extension bonds and cause them to slip prematurely.

When you shampoo, work in a downward motion rather than scrubbing the hair in circles, which creates tangles. Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends only, keeping it away from the attachment points. Finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticle and add shine.

Dry Thoroughly Before Bed

Going to sleep with wet extensions is one of the fastest ways to cause matting and damage. The friction of movement while sleeping, combined with wet hair, creates tangles that can be very difficult to remove. If you wash your hair at night, take the time to blow-dry it — at least until it is mostly dry — before lying down.

When blow-drying, use a medium heat setting and keep the dryer moving. Hold extensions gently at the roots while drying to prevent stress on the bonds.

Protect Your Hair While You Sleep

Even when your hair is dry at bedtime, sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase significantly reduces friction. Many of our clients also braid their extensions loosely or put them in a low ponytail before bed to prevent tangling overnight. This small habit makes a noticeable difference in how your extensions look each morning.

Be Careful with Heat Styling

Most human hair extensions can be styled with heat tools just like your natural hair — but moderation matters. Use a heat protectant spray every time, and keep your flat iron or curling wand at a moderate temperature rather than the highest setting. Over time, excessive heat degrades the quality of the hair, so saving the hot tools for special occasions preserves your extensions longer.

Keep Up with Maintenance Appointments

Extensions need professional maintenance to stay looking their best and to protect your natural hair. Depending on the type of extensions you have, maintenance appointments are typically scheduled every four to eight weeks. During these visits, your stylist adjusts or replaces bonds, checks for any signs of tangling at the roots, and makes sure the extensions are still blending naturally with your own hair.

At Fleur de Lis Salon, we are here to answer questions between appointments too — if something feels off or you notice unusual shedding, call us. It is always better to address a small issue early.

Avoid Product Buildup Near Bonds

Dry shampoos, thickening sprays, and other styling products can accumulate around the attachment points and weaken the bonds over time. Try to apply these products to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, and ask your stylist for a clarifying rinse at your maintenance appointments to remove any buildup.


Interested in extensions or due for a maintenance appointment? Call Fleur de Lis Salon in Port Orange at 386-760-3515 and our team will be happy to help you keep your extensions looking gorgeous.

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