Extend The Life Of Your Hair System - Expert Tips and Tricks

Extend The Life Of Your Hair System - Expert Tips and Tricks

When investing in a high-quality hair replacement system it is a commitment to looking and feeling your best. With the proper care routine, you can maximise your hair system's lifespan, keeping it secure, comfortable, and natural-looking. This can take a bit of getting used to when you start out as you are adjusting. Here are some tips form me, a professional in the industry and hair system wearer for over 5 years to ensure your hair system stays in top condition.

1. Clean Your Hair System the Right Way

Frequent washing or using the wrong products can shorten the lifespan of your hair system.

  • Use Gentle Products: Go for sulfate-free hair system shampoos and conditioners. Harsh chemicals can weaken the base or dry out the hair. Use reputable brands that specialise in natural products and brands that are designed specifically for wigs and hair extensions work really well to keep your hair system hydrated.
  • Rinse Gently: Avoid scrubbing or wringing. use a soft wide-tooth brush or comb to evenly spread the shampoo or conditioner over the hair, massage  lightly into the hair and rinse with lukewarm water.
  • Limit Washing Frequency: Wash your hair system 1–2 times weekly to prevent over-drying and tangling. I personally wash mine once per week while attached and very rarely use shampoo unless there is a noticeable build up of product.

2. Handle with Care During Maintenance

The way you apply and remove your hair system can make a big difference in its longevity. Some systems such as a 0.08mm-0.12mm skin or a mono base can take a flogging and others like a 0.03mm skin or Swiss lace are far too delicate.

  • Use the Correct Adhesive Remover: Using the correct remover for your skin type and system is paramount. They are designed to break down bonds gently, making removal stress-free, but using them incorrectly can cause you and your system pain. I personally use our RELEASE and  REMOVE (the same as C22 and Lace Release, only they are made in Australia) as i find they work best for my skin and with my systems.
  • Avoid Tugging & Pulling: Handle the base, not the hair strands, as they are more likely to pull out or loosen the knots. This goes for when it is attached too, the more you play with it they weaker it will become.

3. Keep It Hydrated

Dryness can make your hair system become brittle and weak making it less natural-looking. 

  • Hydrating Products: Spray on multiple times a day if needed to help lock in moisture and protect from environmental stressors like the harsh Australian sun. I like to use a leave-in conditioner with SPF in it to add additional protection to the colour and the hair.
  • Deep Conditioning: I personally use a deep conditioning treatment every other removal to rejuvenate dry hair and get longer out of my systems. 

4. Protect Your Hair System from Heat and UV Damage

Excessive heat and sun exposure can fade your hair system and reduce its lifespan. As mentioned above, UV damage can cause premature fading, dryness and to become brittle. Causing the system to wear down faster.

  • Minimise Heat Styling: Use heat styling tools (hair dryers/straighteners) sparingly. If necessary, apply a heat protection spray beforehand.
  • Prevent Fading: Protect your hair system outdoors with a leave-in conditioner with SPF in it or wear a hat during prolonged sun exposure. Most days if I am going for a run or playing with the kids, I am in a hat to protect my hair system and my face from the sun.

5. Rotate your Hair Systems and Store Them Properly

Rotating your hair system takes the pressure off of only having one going at a time which means you get longer out of the system, you have a back up incase one breaks and most of the time you will get a discount when you purchase more than one (bonus!). Storing them correctly between uses helps maintain the shape. 

  • Use a Mannequin Head: Prevent tangling and folding by placing your system on a mannequin head when not in use.
  • Cool, Dry Storage: Keep your hair system away from heat, humidity and direct sunlight.

6. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Whether it is DIY or professional maintenance, this can prevent residue buildup in the hair and prevent unwanted damage. Going to a professional has benefits of getting a proper haircut and clean up while there.

  • Visit a Specialist: Book appointments every 4–6 weeks for adjustments, a hair cut and deep cleaning. this will keep you looking and feeling fresh.
  • DIY Repairs: Stock up on the essentials to handle small fixes like lifts, removals and refits in the comfort of your home between visits to a professional.

7. Use Quality Adhesives

The right adhesive for the right system/climate keeps your hair system secure without damaging it or your skin.

  • Liquid Adhesives: For lace systems, be sure to only apply the glue to the scalp and not directly to the base as this will cause the glue to seep through and damage the hair. when using a skin system, it is best to apply even layers to both the base and the scalp. I use PERMABOND when using a liquid adhesive.
  • Tape Adhesives: Skin base systems work well with almost any tape, which makes life easy when choosing a bond. With lace systems, it is best to stick with a lace-specific tape like Walker's Lace Front Tape. 

8. Avoid Excessive Chlorine and Saltwater Exposure

Pool and ocean water can damage your hair system and natural hair over time if no care is taken when swimming.

  • Rinse Immediately: Be sure to always rinse your hair after swimming and use a conditioner if needed to add moisture back into the hair.

By following these tips and using the right products, you can extend the life of your hair replacement system, keeping it looking fresh and natural for months. Regular maintenance and proper product use protect your investment and ensure you feel confident every day.

If you have made it this far, please like and share as this helps our community grow. 

 

Thanks, 

Benny

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