Ultimate Guide to Brushing Hair Extensions
Brushing hair extensions the right way is crucial to keeping them smooth, tangle-free, and long-lasting. Unlike your natural hair, extensions don’t repair themselves, so improper care can cause irreversible damage. Here’s what you need to know:
- Use the right tools: Detangling brushes, loop brushes, wide-tooth combs, and boar bristle brushes are essential for maintaining extensions without pulling or damaging bonds.
- Brush gently and section your hair: Start from the ends and work upwards in small sections to avoid unnecessary strain on attachment points.
- Avoid brushing wet extensions: Let them air-dry to about 80% before brushing to prevent breakage.
- Regular maintenance is key: Brush 2–3 times daily and store clip-ins properly to prevent tangling and extend their lifespan.
How To Brush Clip-In Hair Extensions | Luxy Hair
Tools You Need for Brushing Hair Extensions
When it comes to hair extensions, the right tools can mean the difference between extensions that last up to a year and those that tangle and shed within weeks. Unlike natural hair, extensions can't repair themselves, so every brush and comb you use plays a key role in maintaining their quality.
At the very least, you'll need three essential tools: a detangling brush, a loop brush or wide-tooth comb, and a paddle or boar bristle brush. Each has a specific purpose, working together to keep your Hair Wonderland extensions looking flawless and feeling like new.
Tangle Tamer Brush and The Detangle Brush
Hair Wonderland offers two excellent options for detangling: the Tangle Tamer Brush (AU$21.95) and The Detangle Brush (AU$29.95). Both are designed specifically for extensions, featuring staggered bristles on a cushioned base. These bristles bend gently over knots, reducing the chance of snapping strands or stressing the clips. This is especially important for denser extensions like premium double-drawn Russian or Mongolian hair.
The nylon bristles are perfect for gliding through mid-lengths and ends, helping to minimise shedding and keep the cuticles aligned. This ensures the extensions stay smooth and manageable between washes. For clip-ins, a detangling brush can be used multiple times a day - whether you're heading to work, freshening up after a workout, or dealing with wind-induced tangles. A quick, gentle brush helps keep surface knots at bay without damaging the hair.
Loop Brushes and Wide-Tooth Combs
Once you've tackled tangles, loop brushes and wide-tooth combs come into play. Loop brushes are designed for extensions, featuring looped wires instead of traditional bristles. These wires glide effortlessly over bonds, tapes, and seamless wefts, making them ideal for permanent systems like tape-ins or sew-ins. Unlike standard brushes, loop brushes don’t tug or loosen the bonds, helping to prevent premature slippage or shedding.
Wide-tooth combs, on the other hand, are perfect for damp extensions. The wider spacing between the teeth reduces friction and stretching, which can damage wet hair. For clip-ins, lay the wefts flat on a towel after washing, and gently comb from the ends upward before letting them air-dry. Always support the hair just above where you're combing to avoid pulling on the clips or bonds.
Boar Bristle and Paddle Brushes
Boar bristle brushes are a must-have for blending your natural hair with extensions. They help distribute natural scalp oils from roots to mid-lengths, adding a healthy shine and smoothing the cuticle. This is especially effective for premium Russian or Mongolian extensions, reducing frizz and creating a sleek, polished look - whether you're heading to a special event or just your daily routine.
For larger sections, a soft-bristle paddle brush is ideal. After detangling, use this brush to smooth the hair in long, gentle strokes, starting from the mid-lengths and working down to the ends. Hold the hair a few centimetres above the bonds or clips to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the attachments. This method keeps your extensions secure and prevents tangles from forming near the wefts.
How to Brush Hair Extensions: Step-by-Step Guide
Step-by-Step Guide to Brushing Hair Extensions Properly
When brushing hair extensions, avoid starting at the roots and pulling straight down to the ends. Instead, begin at the tips and work your way upward using short, controlled strokes for better results.
Sectioning Hair for Better Results
Once you have the right tools, the next step is to section your hair systematically. Divide your hair into horizontal layers - typically the bottom, middle, and top - and use clips to keep the upper layers out of the way. Start brushing from the nape of your neck, working upward, ensuring each layer is fully detangled before moving to the next. If your hair is particularly thick or you’re working with rows of clip-in extensions, consider splitting each horizontal layer into smaller subsections. This helps prevent matting and reduces any strain on the bonds or clips.
Brushing Techniques for Clip-In Extensions
For clip-in extensions, the process requires a bit of extra care. Remove each weft, lay it flat on a surface, and support the top while detangling from the ends upward. To keep the hair smooth and manageable, lightly mist the mid-lengths and ends with a leave-in conditioner, steering clear of the clips to avoid buildup. Use short strokes, starting at the tips and gradually working toward the weft. If you're using seamless clip-ins, like those from Hair Wonderland, opt for a soft paddle or detangling brush. Avoid pulling aggressively, as this could damage the thin, flat seams. Always brush clip-ins both before installing and after removing them to maintain their smoothness and ensure they stay in great condition during storage. Following these steps helps preserve the bonds and extend the lifespan of your extensions.
Pre-Brushing Tips for Wet or Tangled Extensions
When dealing with wet or tangled extensions, extra care is required. It's best to let the extensions air-dry until they’re about 70–80% dry before brushing. If you need to detangle damp extensions, apply a slip-enhancing leave-in conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends. Start by using your fingers to gently separate larger knots before switching to a wide-tooth comb. Work in small sections, beginning at the ends and moving upward, while holding the hair just above the area you’re combing to reduce tension on the bonds or clips. For heavily tangled extensions, lightly mist them with a conditioning spray and use a brush to gently work through the knots. Avoid forcing the brush through, as this can tear the fibres or loosen the attachments. A gentle and patient approach will help maintain the integrity of your extensions and prolong their lifespan.
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Caring for Seamless Clip-Ins: Brushing and Storage
Gentle Brushing for Seamless Clip-Ins
Hair Wonderland's seamless clip-ins are designed with Invisi® weft technology - an ultra-flat seam that sits flush against your scalp, creating a natural, invisible look. To keep this unique feature intact, it’s essential to handle them gently during brushing to avoid bending or loosening the seam. Always remove the extensions before brushing and lay each weft flat or hold it securely at the top to protect the Invisi® seam.
For best results, use the Tangle Tamer Brush (AU$21.95) or Detangle Brush (AU$29.95), both of which have flexible bristles to prevent snagging. Start brushing at the ends of the hair, working upwards in small sections (about 2–3 cm at a time) until you reach just below the weft. Avoid dragging the bristles directly across the seam; instead, brush parallel to the hair strands to minimise tension. If you encounter knots, gently separate them with your fingers rather than forcing the brush through, which can damage the weft and shorten the lifespan of your extensions.
For particularly tangled hair, lightly mist the mid-lengths and ends with a silicone-free detangling spray, steering clear of the top 2–3 cm near the clips to avoid weakening the seam. This small step helps keep your premium double-drawn Russian/Mongolian hair looking smooth and full, even with regular use.
After brushing, proper storage is the next step in maintaining your extensions.
Proper Storage After Brushing
Once your seamless clip-ins are brushed and completely dry, storing them correctly is essential to prevent tangling, dust accumulation, and friction damage. Hair Wonderland’s Clip In Bag (AU$54.00) is specifically designed to keep your wefts flat and supported while protecting the Invisi® seam and shielding the extensions from environmental factors that could shorten their lifespan.
To store your extensions, start by organising the wefts by width and closing the clips to avoid snags. Use your fingers to gently align the mid-lengths and ends so the hair falls evenly, then place the wefts in the Clip In Bag, ensuring the top seams are aligned. Zip the bag and hang it in a cool, dry, and shaded area. This is particularly important in Australia, where high UV exposure can fade colour and dry out the hair. Avoid storing the extensions in humid bathrooms or near heaters and air-conditioning vents, as excess moisture or heat can lead to frizz and weaken the adhesive seams.
Common Brushing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Taking care of your hair extensions goes beyond just choosing the right tools or mastering the correct technique. Avoiding common brushing mistakes is just as important to ensure your extensions stay in great shape for as long as possible. Even high-quality double-drawn Russian or Mongolian hair extensions can lose their charm if handled improperly.
Brushing Wet Extensions
When hair extensions are wet, they’re at their most vulnerable. Water adds weight, making the strands stretch and increasing the chances of breakage. Brushing wet extensions can lead to snapping strands or even loosening bonds, tapes, or clips. For seamless clip-ins, brushing wet hair can damage the delicate Invisi® wefts, causing tangling or premature wear as the hair cuticle becomes more exposed and fragile.
To avoid this, let your extensions air dry until they’re about 80% dry before brushing. If you need to detangle damp hair - like after conditioning - use a wide-tooth comb and a detangling spray, starting at the ends and working your way up. For clip-ins, start by finger-combing gently and wait until they’re fully dry before using a brush.
Using the Wrong Tools
Not all brushes are created equal, and using the wrong one can spell trouble for your extensions. Standard brushes with tightly packed, ball-tipped, or metal bristles are meant for natural hair and can tug at knots, strain attachment points, and even cause shedding or matting. Similarly, fine-tooth combs can snag on wefts, while boar bristle brushes may struggle with wet hair and lead to product buildup or snags.
Instead, choose tools specially designed for extensions. Brushes with soft, flexible bristles are perfect for gently detangling without damaging wefts or bonds. Loop brushes with plastic, looped bristles are another great option, as they glide around bonds rather than pulling through them, reducing the risk of damage.
Skipping Regular Maintenance
Neglecting to brush your extensions regularly can lead to matting, knots, and tangles that are hard to fix. Unbrushed clip-ins can become matted in just a few days, sometimes requiring professional help - or even replacement.
Make it a habit to brush your extensions 2–3 times a day, such as in the morning, evening, and, if needed, during the day. Start at the ends and work your way up to avoid unnecessary pulling. For clip-ins, brush them both before and after each wear to keep them in top condition. Regular maintenance, especially with the right tools, can keep your extensions looking smooth and tangle-free for 6–12 months. And with Australia’s humid weather, adding a detangling spray to your routine can help maintain their sleek and full appearance.
Conclusion
Taking proper care of your Hair Wonderland extensions is key to keeping them looking great and lasting longer. A good brushing routine not only maintains their appearance but also helps extend their lifespan. Using the right tools - like soft-bristle brushes, loop brushes, or wide-tooth combs - can prevent damage and protect the attachment points. For Hair Wonderland's premium double-drawn Russian and Mongolian seamless clip-ins, gentle brushing helps retain their thickness and ensures a flawless, natural blend.
How you brush is just as important as the tools you use. Always start at the ends of your hair and work your way up, taking care to section your hair and hold it a few centimetres above the bonds to avoid unnecessary pulling. For clip-ins, brushing gently before and after wearing them and storing them properly can help prevent tangles.
Regular brushing - ideally 2–3 times a day - keeps your extensions smooth and tangle-free. Avoid common pitfalls like using the wrong brushes, brushing when your extensions are wet, or skipping maintenance altogether. These missteps can lead to matting, shedding, and a shorter lifespan. With the right care, high-quality extensions can stay beautiful for 9–12 months or even longer.
Hair Wonderland extensions are crafted for durability and comfort, but they rely on consistent care to look and feel their best. By following the techniques outlined here, using the proper tools, and making brushing a daily habit, you can ensure your extensions stay sleek, smooth, and natural-looking for months to come.
FAQs
What tools should I use to brush my hair extensions?
To maintain the quality of your hair extensions, opt for a gentle detangling brush with soft, flexible bristles. These brushes move effortlessly through the hair, helping to minimise tangles and prevent breakage. Stay away from brushes or combs with stiff bristles, as they can tug on the extensions and lead to damage. When brushing, handle your extensions with care - start at the ends and gradually work your way up towards the roots for optimal results.
How often should I brush my hair extensions to keep them tangle-free?
To keep your hair extensions smooth and free from tangles, make brushing them a daily habit. This is particularly important both before and after wearing them. Opt for a gentle detangling brush or a wide-tooth comb to protect the hair and the bonds from damage.
When brushing, always begin at the tips and gradually work your way up. This technique reduces pulling and minimises the risk of breakage. Regular brushing not only keeps tangles at bay but also preserves the extensions' sleek and natural look.
Why shouldn’t you brush hair extensions when they’re wet?
Brushing your hair extensions while they're wet can cause damage and breakage. Wet hair is especially delicate because the cuticles are open, leaving it more likely to tangle and snap. To keep your extensions in good condition, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle them, and wait until they're fully dry before reaching for a brush.
