Step-by-Step Maintenance Routine

1. How to Style Your Extensions

Your I-tip extensions offer incredible versatility. Whether you want a sleek straight look, voluminous curls, or intricate braids, the possibilities are endless. Remember to:

• Use a heat protectant spray before styling.
• Set your styling tools to a maximum of 395°F.
• Consider heatless styling methods for longer-lasting extensions.
• For curly hair extension instructions click here.

2. Washing and Drying

• Shampoo and Condition:
• Tilt your head back and thoroughly cleanse your scalp and hair.
• Rinse thoroughly with clear water.
• Apply conditioner from mid-way to ends, avoiding the base of the extensions.
• Finish with a cool water rinse.
• Drying:
• Detangle your hair with a hair extension brush.
• Sit under a hood dryer for 1½ – 2 hours until fully dry.

3. Brushing

Brush your extensions regularly:

• Hold your extensions at the base.
• Use a high-quality extension brush designed for hair extensions.
• Start from the ends and work your way up to prevent breakage.

4. Swimming with Extensions

• Wet hair with clean water before swimming.
• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water post-swim.
• Apply a hydrating conditioner or hair mask.
• Air-dry your extensions and avoid stroking hand through hair while wet.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tangling:

• Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush.
• Braid or tie your hair at night.

Slippage:

• Ensure professional installation.
• Avoid applying conditoners and oil based products directly to the roots.
• Brush and style gently.

Recommended Products

• Heat Protectant Spray: Essential for protecting your hair from heat damage.
• Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Gentle on your extensions and scalp.
• Deep Conditioner: Keeps your hair extensions moisturized and soft.
• Hair Serum: Adds shine and reduces frizz.

Concise Aftercare Summary

1. Weekly to Biweekly Shampoo and Condition:

• Use sulfate-free products and avoid the base of the I-tips.

2. Heat Protection:

• Always use a heat protectant spray and keep tools under 375°F.

3. Night Care:

• Secure hair in a braid or ponytail and use a satin bonnet.

4. Avoid DIY Installation/Removal:

• Seek professional help always.

5. Hydration and Nourishment:

• Deep condition weekly and use quality hair serum.

6. Routine Salon Visits:

• Schedule professional maintenance every 6-8 weeks.

The Dos and Don'ts of I-Tip Hair Extensions

Dos

1. Professional Installation

• Always have your I-tip extensions installed by a certified salon professional. Proper installation is crucial for longevity and comfort.

2. Regular Brushing

• Gently brush your hair twice a day using a wide-tooth comb or a special hair extension detangling brush. Begin at the ends of your hair and gradually work your way up to within 2 cm of the roots to prevent tangling.

3. Shampoo and Condition

• Wash your hair every 7 to 14 days using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Concentrate on cleansing the scalp and mid-lengths while avoiding direct contact with conditioner treatments at the base of the I-tips.

4. Deep Conditioning

• Apply deep conditioner away from the scalp from mid-way to the ends once a week to keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness.

5. Heat Protection

• Use a heat protectant spray before applying any heat-styling tools. Keep temperatures between 375°F - 395°F to avoid damaging your extensions.

6. Night Care

• Braid or tie your hair in a loose ponytail before sleeping. Use SL Raw No-slip satin bonnet to prevent tangling and protect your extensions.

7. Swimming Precautions

• Wet your hair with clean water before swimming to minimize chlorine or salt absorption. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water afterward and apply a hydrating conditioner.

8. Routine Maintenance

• Visit your salon professional every 6-8 weeks for maintenance checks and reinstallation to keep your extensions in top shape.

Don'ts

1. DIY Installation/Removal

• Never attempt to install or remove I-tip extensions yourself. Always seek licensed professional help to avoid damage.

2. Excessive Pulling or Tugging

• Avoid pulling or tugging on your extensions, as this can cause damage even though they are securely installed.

3. Heat and Oils near the Base

• Keep heat tools and conditioning oils away from the base of the I-tips to prevent slippage and unraveling.

By following these guidelines, you’ll maintain the beauty and longevity of your I-tip hair extensions. Enjoy your luxurious new look, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to book a consultation with our expert stylists.

Happy Styling!

The SL Raw Virgin Hair Team