Client Care 101: Caring for Hair Extensions While Traveling

With a little planning and a few simple tips, you can protect your hair extensions and still enjoy every moment of your trip without any extra hassle. Here’s your go-to guide for caring for your hair extensions while traveling.

Prep Your Extensions Before You Leave 

• Deep Condition: A hydrating treatment before your trip will give your extensions the moisture they need to withstand changing climates. Dryness can cause frizz and tangles, especially in hot or cold destinations.

• Check Your Installation: If you're wearing semi-permanent extensions like tapes, bonds, or wefts, make sure they're secured and not close to needing maintenance. This avoids issues like slippage or visible bonds while you're away.

• Trim and Refresh: A quick trim or refresh from your stylist before you leave can prevent split ends and keep your extensions looking polished throughout your trip.

Pack Smart Hair Care Essentials

• Travel-Sized Sulphate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner: Regular shampoos can weaken the bonds of your extensions and cause dryness. A sulphate-free formula keeps them hydrated and silky smooth.

• We would also recommend taking a shower water filter as the quality of local water can vary significantly from place to place, and this inconsistency can have a big impact on the health and longevity of your hair and extensions.

• Leave-In Conditioner or Detangler: These will be your best friend, especially if you’re visiting a humid or windy location. A lightweight leave-in conditioner will prevent knots and keep your extensions moisturised.

• Microfibre Towel: Traditional towels can be rough on your hair, causing friction and tangles. A microfibre towel is gentler and helps speed up drying time without the risk of damaging your extensions. We would recommend our XL Luxury Hair Wrap.

• Wide-Tooth Comb or Extension Brush: A good detangling tool is essential. Opt for a wide-tooth comb or an extension-specific brush to detangle your hair gently without pulling at the bonds or causing breakage. Our Luxury Wide Tooth Comb and Luxury Paddle Brush are exactly what you need!

Mind the Environment: Pool, Sea, and Sun

• Before Swimming: If you’re planning to swim, saturate your extensions with fresh water first. Hair absorbs moisture like a sponge, so if it’s already soaked with clean water, it’s less likely to absorb chlorine or saltwater. For added protection, apply a leave-in conditioner before taking a dip.

• Post-Swim Rinse: After swimming, rinse your hair as soon as possible to remove chlorine or salt residue. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner to lock in moisture.

• Protect from the Sun: UV rays can weaken your bonds and fade your hair colour, so consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat or using a UV-protection spray for your extensions.

Styling 

• Opt for Low-Maintenance Styles: Protective hairstyles like braids, buns, or ponytails will help keep your extensions tangle-free and looking neat. They’re also great for beach days or exploring, where you don’t want to worry about your hair.

• Avoid Heat When Possible: Excessive heat styling can dry out and damage extensions, especially when combined with sun exposure. If you do need to style your hair, use a heat protectant and keep the heat setting low.

• Air Dry When You Can: If you can avoid using a blow dryer, let your hair air dry naturally. If you must blow dry, use a cool setting to minimise heat damage.

Every hair extension type and installation method is different, so it’s a good idea to check in with your stylist before heading off. They can give you personalised tips based on the specific extensions you have and your travel destination.