How to Care for Extensions: Expert Tips from Anh Co Tran

Thinking about getting extensions? Or maybe you’ve just had them installed and want to make sure you’re doing everything right? Celebrity Hairstylist and Art Director for Extensionology, Anh Co Tran breaks down all his tips from the first 24 hours after your appointment to long-term care tips and the best types of extensions for different lifestyles.

The First 24–48 Hours After Getting Extensions

According to Anh, the most important thing to remember right away is: don’t wash your hair for at least 24 hours. This waiting period allows the adhesive, whether tape-ins or keratin tips, to properly set and cure into the hair.

When it is time to wash:

• Don’t apply shampoo directly to your scalp. Instead, lather it in your hands first and then apply the shampoo to your hair, minimizing product on the scalp and root area.
• If your hair is prone to tangling, Anh recommends applying conditioner to the ends first before shampooing. This helps prevent knots and makes brushing easier.

When to Get Your Extensions Moved Up

Timing your maintenance appointments is key to keeping your extensions (and your natural hair) healthy. When your hair grows, the extensions move with the hair. If it moves down too much, it can cause tangles or breakage.

• Tape-ins: every 6–8 weeks
• Keratin tips (K-tips): every 6–8 weeks (some stretch to 10 weeks, but no more than 2.5 months)
• Wefts: every 6–8 weeks

How Long Do Extensions Last?

When well cared for, high-quality hair extensions like Extensionology, can last up to a year. But heat styling plays a big role in longevity. The less heat you use, the longer they last. If you’re someone who uses a lot of hot tools, you may need to switch them out more often. When you do use heat, make sure you use a good heat protectant like Milbon’s Heat Protective Mist.

Choosing the Right Extensions for Your Lifestyle

Extensions that work for one person might not be ideal for another. Anh breaks it down:

• If you work out a lot: Avoid tape-ins. Sweat and moisture can weaken the adhesive and cause slipping. K-tips or wefts are a better fit.
• If you have fine hair: Tape-ins or K-tips are great options for discreet, lightweight coverage.
• If you have thick hair: Wefts or K-tips work well to blend seamlessly with your natural volume

Everyday Maintenance Tips

To keep your extensions looking and feeling their best:

• Brush daily using a tangle teaser, and don’t skip your roots.
• Condition regularly, especially mid-lengths to ends.
• Be gentle when detangling and styling.
• Limit heavy heat styling when possible.

Whether you’re new to extensions or looking to improve your current care routine, these expert tips from Anh Co Tran offer a practical, salon-backed roadmap for healthy, beautiful hair.

Want to learn more about Extensionology? Visit their website extensionology.com and stay tuned for updates on their new Keratin Tips this fall! And make sure to follow @anhcotran and @extensionology on Instagram for more pro-tips.