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Hair extensions are a fantastic way to add length, volume, and flair to your hair without committing to permanent changes. Whether you prefer clip-ins, tape-ins, sew-ins, or fusion extensions, they offer versatility and instant transformation. However, like natural hair, extensions require proper care to maintain their appearance and longevity. One common issue that can arise is discoloration, which can detract from the seamless blend with your natural hair. Fear not! With the right knowledge and care routine, you can keep your extensions looking vibrant and beautiful for longer. In this blog, we’ll delve into some top tips to prevent hair extension discoloration, ensuring that your investment stays stunning and undetectable. Let’s dive in!
I. What Causes Discoloration in Hair Extensions?
Nothing is more frustrating than investing in beautiful hair extensions only to watch them lose their luster over time. But fear not, for understanding the root causes of this issue can help you prolong the lifespan and vibrancy of your extensions. Discoloration in hair extensions can occur due to various factors, including:
Hair Extensions Discoloration Cause #1: Sun Exposure
Just like natural hair, hair extensions can undergo color changes when exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods. Sunlight is a natural hair lightener that can lighten the color of your hair extensions even quicker than it would your hair. UV rays can cause oxidation, leading to fading or discoloration of the hair extensions.
#2: Chlorine and Saltwater
Swimming in chlorinated pools or salt water can also affect the color of hair extensions. Chlorine is a chemical added to water to kill germs and it’s also can also strip the hair extensions of color and moisture, leaving them dry, brittle, and discolored. While the salt in seawater damages both your own hair and your extensions. It’s a natural dehydrator that strips your hair of moisture and natural oils. It will also cause discoloration in your extensions as the salt will remove the ashy/violet pigmentation, leaving your extensions brassy.
CHECK THIS OUT: Purple Shampoo – A Savior For Brassy Blonde Hair
Hair Extensions Discoloration Cause #3: Water Quality
Water content has an enormous impact on the texture, color, and manageability of your hair extensions. Hard water, or water with a high mineral content, can leave limescale and residue on your hair. Hard water with high mineral content can also affect the color of hair extensions. Minerals like iron and copper in the water can deposit onto the hair, causing it to become discolored or dull.
CHECK THIS OUT: Top Shampoos in 2024 That Will Save Your Hair From Hard Water
#4: Chemical Processing/Heat Styling
If the hair extensions have undergone chemical treatments such as bleaching, coloring, or perming, they may be more susceptible to discoloration. Improper application or use of harsh chemicals can damage the hair cuticle, causing it to lose color and vibrancy. Besides, excessive use of hot styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, or blow dryers can cause hair extensions to become dry and brittle, leading to discoloration over time.
Hair Extensions Discoloration Cause #5: Poor Quality Products
Low-quality hair extensions made from synthetic fibers or cheap human hair may be more prone to discoloration compared to higher-quality extensions. The dyes used in these products may not be as stable or long-lasting, leading to faster fading or changes in color. Wanna see the vast distance between low-quality and high-quality hair extensions? Read now Why You Should Invest In Good Quality Hair Extensions?
II. How To Deal with Hair Extensions Discoloration?
Dealing with hair extension discoloration can vary depending on the type of extensions and the cause of the discoloration. Here are some general steps to address this issue:
- Identify the Cause: Determine why the hair extensions have become discolored.
- Gentle Washing & Deep Conditioning: Start by gently washing the hair extensions with a mild shampoo and lukewarm water. Besides, use a deep conditioning treatment designed for hair extensions to help restore moisture and vitality to the hair.
- Color Correction: If the discoloration is due to dye fading or uneven color, consider using a color-correcting product specifically formulated for hair extensions. You can find out more about color correction in our blog: How Hair Color Correction Can Fix Dye Mistakes?
- Regular Maintenance: To keep hair extensions looking their best, establish a regular maintenance routine that includes gentle washing, conditioning, and styling with suitable products.
- Replace Damaged Extensions: If the discoloration is severe or the extensions are significantly damaged, it may be necessary to replace them with new ones. Take proper care of the new extensions to prevent future discoloration.
→ By following these steps and taking good care of your hair extensions, you can help minimize discoloration and keep them looking beautiful for longer.
III. Top Tips to Prevent Hair Extension Discoloration
Preventing hair extension discoloration is crucial for maintaining their appearance and longevity. Here are some top tips to help you keep your hair extensions looking vibrant and natural:
Prevent Hair Extension Discoloration Tip #1: Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo
Sulfates can strip away color and natural oils from both your natural hair and extensions. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain the color and health of your extensions. Besides, when washing, avoid rubbing or bunching the hair together, as this can cause tangling and potential color loss. After shampooing and conditioning, rinse your extensions with cold water. Cold water helps seal the hair cuticles, locking in moisture and color, and preventing fading or discoloration.
Tip #2: Use Color-Safe Products
Choose hair care products specifically formulated for color-treated hair. These products are designed to be gentle and help maintain the vibrancy of your hair extensions.
Prevent Hair Extension Discoloration Tip #3: Avoid Heat Damage, Chlorine and Saltwater
Excessive heat styling can cause hair extensions to become dry, brittle, and discolored. Minimize the use of hot tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers. When you do use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray first. Besides, chlorine from swimming pools and saltwater from the ocean can both be harsh on hair extensions, causing them to become dry and discolored. If you’ll be swimming, wear a swim cap or keep your hair out of the water as much as possible. After swimming, rinse your extensions thoroughly with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner to help restore moisture.
Tip #4: Protect Extensions from Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause hair extensions to fade and become discolored. If you’ll be spending time in the sun, consider wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray on your extensions.
Prevent Hair Extension Discoloration Tip #5: Regular Maintenance and Store Properly
Proper maintenance can help prevent tangling, matting, and discoloration. When you’re not wearing your extensions, store them properly to prevent tangling and damage. Use a satin or silk bag to keep them clean and protected from dust and sunlight.
IV. Conclusion
In conclusion, maintaining the vibrancy and natural appearance of your hair extensions requires diligence and care. By following these top tips, you can effectively prevent discoloration and ensure that your extensions look stunning for longer periods. Remember to invest in high-quality products, avoid excessive heat styling, protect your hair during activities, and follow a regular maintenance routine. With these simple steps, you can enjoy beautiful, vibrant hair extensions that seamlessly blend with your natural hair, enhancing your overall look and confidence.
