When it comes to hair, shedding is inevitable. 

It’s infrequent and almost impossible to find hair that does not shed at all, so the goal is to find hair extensions that shed minimally. If our natural hair sheds more extensions, expecting hair that doesn’t shed at all is high expectations. 

Tangling will likely happen over time for various reasons, such as frequent use of hot tools, product build-up, or care products not recommended for your extensions. 

But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with top-notch tips to keep shedding and tangling at bay! 

1. Choose Quality Extensions 

As I said, hair will shed at some point and become knotted if it is not properly cared for. 

To fight shedding and tangling, you must arm yourself with high-quality extensions. They are of such excellent quality that they will last longer and better. 

Opt for 100% human hair extensions over synthetic ones. They might cost more, but your hair will thank you. 

2. Proper Installation 

Try not to cut your wefts and use a weft sealer: When installing your hair extensions, ensuring you’re not cutting your wefts is very important. It is understandable that to achieve a flat and seamless installation, some wefts will have to be cut, and that shouldn’t be an issue as long as it is done correctly. 

However, you may experience a significant amount of shedding compared to somebody who doesn’t cut their wefts as they install. Try to use the fold-over method instead of cutting your wefts; this will minimize the chance of cutting your wefts and shedding. If you need to cut your wefts, use a weft sealer. It’s like glue that helps keep the wefts intact after you cut them. 

Double Machine Weft Vs Single Wefts: There are two types of wefts, double machine wefts, and single machine wefts, so double machine wefts are what you should be going for because this means two wefts are put together and sown, making it more durable than the single machine wefts so it won’t shed excessively.

Sow around the weft, not through it: Sow around the wefts instead of sewing through them and jabbing the needle through them. Once you puncture the wefts, that could potentially lead to more shedding 

3. Use Fingers and Combs for Detangling 

Although many people are crazy about detangling hair brushes, I don’t see why; they can rip out your extensions. Using your fingers will make you less compelled to rip through strands. 

When your fingers don’t work, you might try an extensive tooth comb with very smooth teeth dipped in water. Start at the ends and work slowly and gently. 

Comb your hair extensions regularly to prevent tangles. To make the process easier, you can also use a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray. 

4. Moisturizing 

After detangling, rinse the conditioner, perform a cool/cold water rinse, and then do one last accordion squeeze to remove excess water. One of the best ways to detangle hair strands is to make sure the hair is moisturized and has lots of slip. Yes, it can be time-consuming and tedious, but it’s the best way to ensure minimal tangling, knotting, frizzing, and matted strands. 

Commit to using a deep conditioner once a week or a daily leave-in conditioner. Apply the conditioner only to the ends to avoid greasy roots, which may cause your extensions to slip. Conditioning your hair will restore any moisture lost due to heat styling, swimming in chlorine, weather, etc 

5. Recommended Hair Care Products 

Use the recommended products for your specific extensions. Hair products containing harsh chemicals can strip your extensions of their natural oils, leading to dryness and tangling. Avoid products with sulfates, alcohol, and silicones. Opt for natural, gentle formulas instead. 

Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. Any oils or moisturizing products should be used from the mid-shaft down, as they can cause specific methods of extensions to slip. If you are experiencing product build-up, clarify the ends of your hair with a clarifying shampoo, but do this sparingly as it can lead to color fade 

6. Air Drying Hair or Plopping 

Air drying is considered very beneficial for the overall health of the hair, as it keeps the use of heat at bay. Also, plopping and then slow diffuser drying on a fantastic setting may help keep hair from tangling as easily.

7. Braid your extensions 

The longer the length, the more likely your extensions are to tangle. You can keep your hair extensions free of tangles by braiding them. If they’re glued or sewn into your hair, braid them with your natural hair. 

Any type of braid you prefer will work to keep the extensions free of tangles, but a simple 3-strand braid is usually the easiest. 

8. Avoid using styling products with alcohol. 

If your hair extensions are made of natural hair, you can use the same styling products on them as you would on your natural hair unless you have an exclusive product for the bonding material. However, to keep a glue bond or resin bond from breaking down, don’t use products that contain alcohol. 

9. Use Satin Pillow Cases, Cap Or Scarves 

Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase will significantly prevent shedding and tangling. It may also be preferable to sleep in a satin scarf or sleep cap or with hair pulled into a protective style for resting so that when you do have to detangle, it can be a less stressful experience. 

10. Store Properly 

When you’re not wearing your extensions, store them properly. Keep them in a cool, dry place, and avoid tossing them in a drawer where they can get tangled. Use a hair extension hanger or a storage bag to keep them organized and tangle-free. 

Proper care ensures your hair extensions remain stunning, smooth, and free from tangles and shedding. Treat them well, and every day will be a great hair day.