extension homecare
WEFTS
DOS
+ Avoid protein and keratin shampoos and conditioners.
+ Condition super well
+ Always use a heat protectant prior to blow drying AND heat styling.
+ Brush before washing and make sure you are thoroughly rinsing.
+ Keep washing to a maximum of 2-3 times per week. Consider washing the top of your hair more often if needed. ( Pull back your extensions in a ponytail and wash above your top row in the sink)
+ Shampoo TWO times - once with a light clarifying shampoo
( on the scalp only ) followed by a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner (allow to sit on for 5 minutes).
+ Deep condition every other week/as needed. K18 mask is extension safe.
+ Sleep with 2 low pigtails or braids (silk pillowcase and/or bonnet recommended)
+ Protect your hair when spray tanning. tanning outside. or wearing self-tanner.
Donts
- Wash upside down / flip your head over - this can push your beads up out of your weft and displace your extensions.
- Go to bed with wet or damp hair - this causes damage and tangling.
- Sleep with hair pulled up high or tight - this can cause tension and damage on your scalp and natural hair.
- Pull your hair up within the first week (low and loose only, please) - after that you can pull up into a high pony if wanted but flip your head all the way over and your wefts all the way up.
- Blow dry upside down - for the same reasons you shouldn’t wash upside down.
how to top wash
Top washing is a super handy trick for keeping the hair that covers your extensions looking fresh without having to wash the extensions themselves. It’s perfect if you want to stretch out the time between full washes to about 3-5 days while making sure your hair at the top looks clean.
Step 1: Section It Off
Start by separating the hair that’s covering your extensions from the rest of your hair. Just gently clip that top layer up and out of the way.
Step 2: Ponytail Time
Pull the rest of your hair (the extensions included) into a ponytail. This keeps everything else organized while you focus on washing the top part.
Step 3: Shampoo and Condition
Take a bit of shampoo and work it into your scalp in the top section. Be careful not to mess with the extensions. Rinse it out well, then apply a light conditioner, again sticking to just the top section. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out.
Step 4: Rinse and Squeeze
Make sure all the shampoo and conditioner are rinsed out of that top section. Gently squeeze out the excess water—no rubbing or twisting to avoid tangles!
Step 5: Dry and Style
Pat the top section dry with a soft towel to soak up extra moisture. You can let it air dry or blow it out.
Pro tip: Blowdrying actually reduces oiliness..
k-TIPS
First 48 Hours: The Setting Period
Avoid Washing: Do not wash or wet your hair for at least 48 hours to allow the bonds to fully cure.
No Heavy Products: Skip oils, conditioners, or serums near the bonds as much as possible to prevent slippage. Use these on the mids and ends.
Gentle Styling: Keep styling to a minimum; avoid excessive heat or tension on the bonds.
Daily Maintenance
Brushing: Use an extension-friendly brush twice daily to prevent tangles. Hold the roots while brushing to avoid tension on the bonds.
Sleeping: Braid your hair loosely or tie it in a low ponytail to prevent matting. Use a silk pillowcase for less friction or a silk bonnet.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: Keep conditioner away from the bonds. Excessive moisture weakens keratin bonds over time.
Washing & Conditioning
Shampoo 2-3 Times a Week: Use a sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoo. Massage gently at the roots without roughing up the bonds.
Conditioning: Apply conditioner mid-lengths to ends only—never on the bonds.
No Inverted Washing: Keep your head upright while washing to prevent tangling.
Avoid round brush blowouts or salon blowouts. You can use a round brush blow dryer at home. Use one hand to hold the top of your bonds and take large sections.
Styling & Heat Protection
Low to Medium Heat: Use a heat protectant and keep hot tools below 350°F to prevent melting the keratin bonds.
No Direct Heat on Bonds: Avoid placing flat irons or curling wands directly on the bonds.
Dry Thoroughly: Always dry the bonds completely after washing to prevent breakdown. Do not go to sleep with wet or damp hair.
Lifestyle Tips
Avoid Chlorine & Saltwater: Wear a protective swim cap or braid your hair before swimming. Rinse with clean water immediately after exposure.
Workouts & Sweat: Tie hair up in a loose braid or ponytail during intense workouts to keep sweat away from bonds.
Regular Maintenance: Schedule a professional check-up every 6-8 weeks to ensure the bonds stay intact and your natural hair remains healthy.
When to Remove or Replace
K-Tip extensions last 3-5 months with proper care. Never attempt to remove them at home—always see a professional to prevent damage to your natural hair.
recommended products
First Shampoo: K18 Detox Shampoo
Second Shampoo: Iles Formula Shampoo OR Milbon Moisture Shampoo
Conditioner: Iles Formula Conditioner OR Milbon Moisture Conditioner
Leave-In/Styling Products