Preparing for Your Hair Extension Appointment

So, you’re getting hair extensions for the first time and you’ve just booked your first appointment – cue happy dance! It’s super exciting, but you might also feel a little unprepared for your first hair extension installation. You might not know how to prep your hair for your appointment or how the application process works. 

Don’t worry! We’re here to help you prepare for your hair extension appointment. As long as you keep these things in mind, getting hair extensions will be easy breezy. Lengthy, luscious locks, here we come!

Before Getting Hair Extensions

Are you still on the fence, asking yourself, “Should I get hair extensions?” We will always say YES!

Think about your dream hair goals. What length do you want? Maybe you only want to add a few inches but lots of volume, or maybe you want to go full-length glam. 

Regardless of your desired look, one of the most important steps is to decide on which extensions you want. You can lean on your stylist and their expertise, or you can order your own extensions and bring them to your appointment for application. (This can help ensure your extensions best match your natural hair color.) If you opt for human hair extensions, your stylist can custom color and cut your hair and extensions so they seamlessly blend. 

Curious how to do hair extensions? Here’s a little insider tip: It all starts at the salon for semi-permanent options like tape-in (check out our Tape It) or sew-in!

The Day of Your Hair Extension Appointment

All right, you’ve done your research. You know everything there is to know about hair extensions, right? Good! Now it’s time to book your hair extension installation and start prepping your hair so you can make hair magic with your stylist. Here’s what you need to do on the day of your appointment.

Wash Your Hair 

The number one question we get is, “Should I wash my hair before going to the salon?” Yes, you absolutely can! Before your hair extension installation, you’ll want to wash your hair to remove all that oil and build-up. Try to use a clarifying shampoo – this will give your stylist an extra clean slate to work with. (Or just wait for your stylist to wash your hair for you!)

Don’t Use Any Conditioner or Styling Products 

Why not? Well, conditioner and styling products can interfere with the extensions’ bond. Products that contain alcohol, like hairspray, can damage and dissolve the extension adhesives. Clean, product-free hair will help the bond stick to your natural hair without any issues. We suggest saving that haircare routine for after your appointment!

Completely Dry and Brush Out Your Hair 

Before you step foot in the salon, make sure your hair is completely dry, brushed out, and free of any knots and tangles. Avoid any and all temptation to style your hair – that means no curling or straightening! Remember: clean, fresh slate. 

By the way, let your stylist know if you’ve ever had a perm or straightening treatment. Your stylist may not recommend applying hair extensions to hair that’s had these kinds of treatments due to previous hair damage or breakage.  

Be Prepared to Spend Time at the Salon 

Get comfy because depending on the type of extensions you choose, you could be at the salon for a good chunk of the day! Make sure you block off plenty of time on your calendar and feel free to double-check with your stylist to see how long your hair extension installation appointment will last. One of the benefits of tape-in extensions is their quicker application (most are only in the salon chair for an hour!). 

After Your Hair Extension Installation 

Yay, you did it! Your extensions are in, you’re rocking new and improved locks, and you’re ready to take on the world. But first! Add these things to your shopping list to keep your tresses looking their absolute best.

Hair Extension Brush

Taking proper care of your extensions starts with brushing them! Look for a hair extension brush designed specifically to maintain hair extensions and minimize damage from brushing (like our sectioning comb!). These kinds of brushes are made with soft bristles that are extra gentle on your scalp and detangle strands without any breakage. 

Shampoo for Hair Extensions

Can you wash hair extensions? Yes! With a few caveats, naturally. We don't recommend washing your hair every day, especially if you have hair extensions because all that sudsing and lathering can loosen the bonds. Try to limit hair washing to 2 to 3 times a week. Use a dry shampoo in between washes if your hair’s looking a little greasy. And use a hair extension shampoo specifically formulated for extensions for the best results! 

Conditioner for Hair Extensions

Keeping your hair hydrated promotes healthy, happy strands, so seal in that juicy moisture with a hair extension conditioner. And, when your tresses need an extra boost, reach for a leave-in conditioner that will add a nourishing dose of protection. 

Hair Makeover Complete!

Getting hair extensions for the first time is such a thrill. Nothing beats the moment when your stylist turns your chair around to reveal how that short and fine hair gets magically transformed into long, voluminous locks!

Now that you know all about hair extension installations, you know exactly how to make your stylist’s job a whole lot easier! (You might just be their favorite client!)