Curly Hair Extensions? Here's How to Care for Them Like a Pro
Let’s be real, curly hair is already a labor of love. Add hair extensions to the mix, and suddenly your routine feels like a full-time job. But with the right tools, tips, and techniques, curly hair extensions can look just as luxurious on day 45 as they did on day one.
At Salon 1827, we specialize in curly hair installs, from hand-tied to hybrid methods, so we created this Curly Homecare Guide to set you (and your strands) up for long-term success.
Bookmark this blog, curlfriend, your extensions will thank you.
1. Bedtime Routine
Your curls need beauty sleep, too. Before bed, secure your hair in a low, loose ponytail or braid to prevent tangling. Then swap your cotton pillowcase for a satin pillowcase or bonnet; it’s a game-changer for reducing breakage and protecting the integrity of your curls.
This one switch alone can extend the life of your extensions and reduce morning chaos.
2. Brushing Curly Extensions
Curly extensions aren’t like straight ones; you can’t brush them daily without disrupting the curl pattern or creating frizz.
Instead, set aside dedicated time pre-wash (Lesley says it takes about 20 minutes!) to gently detangle with clips and work through each section.
Pro tip: Use an extension-safe detangling brush and always start from the ends, working your way up while holding the weft to reduce tension on the anchor points.
3. Shampooing 101 (Read Before You Wash)
First rule: never wash your hair upside down.
Second rule: shampoo twice with an extension-safe or sulfate-free cleanser.
Third rule: condition only the ends, and always apply in a downward motion.
Curly extensions need clean roots but minimal manipulation. You don’t want matting, and once it starts, it’s hard to fix.
4. What NOT to Do With Curly Extensions
Let’s get blunt: certain habits will wreck your investment.
Salty or chlorinated water (or baths with your hair down)
Overwashing (3x/week is plenty)
Sleeping on wet hair
Overusing hot tools
Sunscreen ingredients like octocrylene and avobenzone
Tanning beds or sprays
Some of these can even turn your extensions pink or orange, yikes!
5. Restyle Days (Your Lazy Girl Secret)
Not ready for a full wash? Try this:
Take your hair out of its braid or ponytail
Mist it with a spray bottle
Add a curl serum or anti-humidity spray
Scrunch
Diffuse for 5 minutes
This refresh method keeps curls bouncy without starting from scratch.
6. Blowdrying & Styling: The Do’s
Use hydrating, heat-protectant curl products
Apply to damp hair, focusing on ends (not anchor points)
Always dry with a diffuser; never air-dry!
Avoid blow-drying or styling upside down (it stresses your rows and tangles the wefts)
Layer your leave-in, serum, and curl cream to make styling days easier and more consistent.
Got Questions? Ask Lesley
As your master extensionist, I want to make sure you're empowered to care for your curls at home. Comment below or DM me anytime over at @shes.sew.extra on Instagram.
You can also explore my Hair Extension Services and book a consult if you're ready to take the leap into curly goddess status.
Bonus: Your Curly Extension Checklist
Satin pillowcase or bonnet
Curl serum + leave-in conditioner
Diffuser (non-negotiable)
Extension-safe brush
Weekly refresh plan
Extension-safe shampoo + conditioner
Save this post. Share it with your curlfriends. Let your extensions live their best life.
