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When it comes to hair extensions, the biggest misconception a lot of people have is how important it is to cleanse them. Some believe that wearing hair extensions exempts them from all hair maintenance. But with that mindset, you will find yourself wasting a lot of money. Most individuals use their hair extensions until they are raggedy, not realizing that if they are cleaned regularly, they will last longer. “Co-washing hair extensions” are one of the best and easiest things you can do. If you don’t, you may end up with tangled, knotted hair. Continue reading below to find out some techniques you can use to co-wash your hair extensions.
I. What is Co-washing Technique?
Co-washing or Conditioner Washing is the act of washing your hair with a conditioner — and only conditioner. It’s also known as conditioner-only washing and no-poo (as in no shampoo). If you have coily, mixed-textured, curly, or extremely dry hair, there’s a chance that your hair care routine could benefit from it.
II. Co-washing Benefit for Hair Extensions
Co-washing has become the go-to method for proper maintenance of hair, especially for hair extensions. Including this cleansing technique in your hair care routine regimen allows for ease of care when wearing hair extensions. The following are the main co-washing benefits and why people should start co-washing their hair.
1. Co-Washing Benefits the Scalp
Because natural oils and sweat are created, it is critical to remove these from the hair. If not regularly washed away, salt from the frequent sweat will immediately dry out the textured hair extensions and inflame the scalp. There is also a heaviness from excessive oils that can cause issues. One of the benefits of co-washing is that it may remove dust, salt, and dirt from the hair while avoiding damaging the hair of its natural oils.
2. Co-Washing is Fast
Another significant advantage of co-washing is that it may be completed in a short amount of time. In contrast to regular shampooing and conditioning, rinse the hair thoroughly and then lather up with a conditioner and rinse versus multiple steps.
3. Co-Washing Benefits Hair Health
Because co-washing eliminates shampoo, which can strip the hair, your hair extensions can retain hydration and shine. It will be much easier to comb and style, and will eventually dry a lot smoother and sleeker. You also skip persistently exposing the hair to hot water which can cause unwanted dryness and reverse the softness. In the long run, both the hair and the body will be healthier.
4. It gives your hair a great smell
One of the most excellent co-washing benefits on a daily basis is that the hair will have a good smell every day. The scalp and hair will feel clean, fragrant, and fresh.
5. Co-washing defines waves and curls
Because you’re no longer exposing your hair to the stripping detergents found in shampoo, you’ll notice that as you transition, your natural waves and curls will become more pronounced. When the human hair is properly conditioned and lubricated, the curls will appear supple, healthier, and moist.
III. How To Co-Wash For Hair Extensions?
Just like natural hair, extensions always need to be deep conditioned, so hair remains soft and flawless. Some may even rinse the hair with cool water and then apply a deep condition; We spoke with the leading hairstylists to get the favorite co-washing tips to share with you.
- Step 1: Start off by wetting the hair with water. Apply a moisturizing conditioner from weft to tip. Don’t be afraid to be generous!
- Step 2: Comb through the hair with a wide-tooth comb and let the conditioned hair sit for a good 10-15 minutes.
- Step 3: After your weave is rehydrated, be sure to rinse out all the conditioner from the hair.
- Step 4: Finally, gently pat the hair with a towel to remove excess water from the hair, and let it air dry. Never rub the hair together because it will create unmanageable tangles and frizz.
You also can refer to this video below to reference some useful tips for Co-washing Hair:
IV. When not to do it?
For many people, co-washing can transform their hair. However, some individuals, especially those with waves or ultra-fine curls, may not be able to co-wash regularly, as it can create buildup.
You should aim to wash your hair every 7 to 10 days using a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. “This includes when you have your hair in a protective style. This will ensure that there is no scalp buildup, that you remove enough sebum, and that dirt and dust particles are removed.” When you do have scalp buildup, this can lead to a host of issues, including:
- Contact dermatitis: Co-washing can be irritating to the skin, as conditioners are designed to be rinsed off. Continuous contact with a substance that should be rinsed away but hasn’t been can lead to contact dermatitis.
- Products becoming less effective: Build-up forms layers on the hair cuticle and blocks products from working on your hair. This means you’ll just be wasting your time and money at that point.
- Itchy scalp: An irritated scalp can become itchy and flaky.
V. Co-Wash vs. Conditioner: What’s the Difference?
Co-washing and conditioning are similar, but not identical. Conditioning is about moisture, detangling, and pliability. Protein-rich conditioners are also about strengthening or repairing the damage. Cleansing conditioners have special cleansing ingredients that gently cleanse and remove product buildup, leaving you with a soft and clean feeling. It’s also a huge time-saver because you’re cleansing and conditioning in one step.
So, while a co-wash can replace a conditioner in your routine, you can’t co-wash with any old conditioner or you’ll run the risk of not properly cleansing the hair, which may result in product buildup, scalp discomfort, and general greasiness. Look for products explicitly labeled as “cleansing conditioners” or “co-washes”.
VI. Shop Our Favorite Cleansing Conditioners
You have plenty of options when it comes to conditioners that are great for co-washing. We’ve curated our list of favorites. Check these out:
The argan oil in this drugstore mainstay goes easy on dry curls, moisturizing and boosting shine while keeping them bouncy. And it will go easy on your budget, too.
A top pick for coarse or dry hair and tight curls, this product gets its silkening power from Abyssinian oil and Mafura butter. Meanwhile, sage oil can help get rid of scalp impurities.
Completely detergent-free, this pick is rich in natural ingredients that bring big benefits. Fig helps cleanse hair while also hydrating, pomegranate moisturizes, and tea tree oil soothes sensitive and flaky scalps.
Now that you have learned how to co-wash your hair extensions, you’re on your way to having soft, flawless hair! Adding co-washing to your hair regimen is not only going to improve your look, but you’ll be able to save tons of money. You won’t have to toss out your hair extensions once they begin looking old. Co-washing will bring that shine and softness right back to your bundles. Remember, before your next install appointment, you can now wash away any bacteria or smells that might have been lingering in your bundles. Co-washing is the fastest and easiest way to ensure you maintain proper maintenance with your hair extensions.
