If you’ve recently bought some gorgeous hair extensions, the first question on your mind is probably what’s the best shampoo for hair extensions.
It might seem easy to grab any shampoo off the shelf, but in reality: your extensions need a special formula so they continue feeling soft, looking silky-smooth and last for as long as possible.
The wrong shampoo can result in dryness, tangling or slipping - while the right one leaves everything shiny and healthy.
In this blog, we're getting into the specifics about how to select the best shampoo for hair extensions, what ingredients you should avoid and how to take care of your extensions on wash days.
Why Does Choosing the Best Shampoo for Hair Extensions Matter?
Hair extensions don’t get the same oils your real hair gets from a fully functional scalp.
That means:
- They dry out faster
- They need more hydration
- They depend solely on what you put in them
This is why finding the best shampoo for your hair extensions isn’t a means of giving yourself an option; it’s necessary to ensure the longevity and softness of your extensions.
Ingredients You Should Always Avoid
Not all shampoos are extension-friendly. Here is what to avoid if you wish to keep your hair safe.
- Sulfates: Sulfates (such as SLS or SLES) cause moisture to tap out fast and can also make extensions frizzled and brittle.
- Drying Alcohols: Smaller amounts of alcohols (ethanol or alcohol denat) can affect extension hair and adhesive tabs.
- Heavy Silicones & Parabens: Too-heavy silicones lead to buildup, and tend to weigh extensions down. Over time, parabens can irritate the scalp.
MHE Tip: If your shampoo foams too much, or if your hair feels “squeaky clean” afterwards, it might not be the best shampoo for hair extensions.
What to Look for in Shampoo for Hair Extensions
Let's discuss what qualities make a shampoo truly extension-safe.
Sulfate-Free Formula
With a sulfate-free base, the best shampoo for hair extensions starts by simply cleansing and no stripping.
Hydrating Ingredients
Extensions require moisture, not weight. Look for:
- Aloe vera
- Coconut water
- Argan oil
- Pro-vitamin B5
Lightweight Proteins
Just a bit of silk or keratin can fortify extension hair, but steer clear of protein-rich shampoos each time you wash.
Choosing the Best Shampoo for Your Extension Type
The formulas also vary slightly between the different extensions.
Tape-In Extensions
Tape extensions require lightweight, residue-free shampoo. It is said that anything heavy can lead to slipping, so the best shampoo for hair extensions is sulphate-free. It’s best to avoid shampooing right at the roots where the tape is to avoid slipping.
Clip-Ins
Because clip-ins do not require frequent washing, pick an option to hydrate and maintain these locks' softness, again avoid the clips/roots as to not damage them.
Wefts (Sewn or Beaded)
Wefts like a little more moisture, so you’re best to use a moisturising shampoo.
How Often Should You Use Your Extension Shampoo
Washing too frequently can be drying - washing less does not cause buildup.
General guideline:
- Tape-ins/Wefts: 1-2 times a week
- Clip-ins: Only when needed
MHE Tip: Never brush when wet, always brush before washing to ensure the hair is tangle-free and soak up excess water with a towel after. It will save your extensions!
How to Wash Your Hair Using the Best Shampoo for Hair Extensions?
If you want to take care of your extensions, knowing how to wash hair extensions is an absolute must.
Brush gently before washing. This way, you work out knots without yanking on your extensions.
- Use lukewarm water: Hot water can also roughen the hair cuticle.
- Condition up to mid-length and ends only: Do not use the conditioner around tapes or near beads.
- Rinse thoroughly: Residue creates tangling and build-up.
- Pat dry - don’t rub: A microfibre towel is best.
Common Shampoo Mistakes to Avoid With Extensions
Even when you use the best shampoo for hair extensions, these are what can reduce the lifespan of your extensions:
- Regular use of sulphates or strong clarifiers
- Washing too often
- Scrubbing extensions aggressively
- Sleeping with wet hair
- Applying conditioner on roots
- Using extremely hot water
The Takeaway
Picking the best shampoo for hair extensions is really one of the biggest steps to keep them soft, shiny and fabulous.
By staying away from any nasty ingredients and using moisture-based, sulphate-free formulas that hydrate your hair extensions instead of drying them out, you’re looking after your investment and making sure they look as beautiful a few months in as the day you unwrapped them.
