Are you considering getting hair extensions for the first time?
The idea of having longer, thicker hair appeals to nearly every woman. However, before installing hair extensions, it’s essential to understand how to prepare for them properly.
CONTENTS
- What you should know before getting extensions?
- Pre-Appointment Preparations
- Hair Extensions Preparation Checklist
- Choosing the Right Extensions for Perfect Results
- Post-Appointment Hair Extension Tips
What you should know before getting extensions?
In this article, we've gathered expert recommendations on what to do on the day of your extension appointment, how to care for your hair afterward, and situations where it's better to postpone the procedure.
Keep reading to get ready for your transformation!
Pre-Appointment Preparations
Not sure what to do before a hair extensions appointment?
First and foremost, you need to make sure there are no medical contraindications. These include:
- Hair loss or alopecia
Extensions may worsen hair shedding. We recommend visiting a trichologist for treatment first, and only proceed with extensions after full recovery. - Scalp conditions like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, or fungal infections
A dermatologist should prescribe treatment. Hair extensions can be considered once the scalp is healthy again. - Scalp damage (cuts, wounds, abrasions)
It’s important to understand the cause and allow full healing before scheduling your appointment. - Allergy to keratin glue or adhesives used in tape-in or k-tip extensions
Allergy-prone clients should request a patch test to avoid reactions. - Undergoing chemotherapy, or taking hormonal medications or strong antibiotics
Your body needs time to recover during treatment. Consult your doctor about whether and when extensions are appropriate. - Pregnancy and breastfeeding
It's best to wait until your hormones stabilize before making changes to your hairstyle. - Very fine or damaged hair
Whether naturally thin or damaged from coloring, heat, or chemicals, your hair may need restoration before extensions. In such cases, we recommend choosing soft, manageable strands like Slavic hair, which are ideal for fine or weakened hair. - Extremely short hair
The minimum length for extensions is 3 inches (around 7–8 cm). If your hair is shorter, allow it to grow before booking your appointment.
If your hair is healthy, some preparation is still required.
Start by scheduling a consultation with your stylist to select the right hair type and method, and to allow them to assess your natural hair in person.
If your appointment is in the future, use the time to strengthen your hair with a vitamin regimen (approved by your doctor) and nourishing masks recommended by your hair tech.
Hair Extensions Preparation Checklist
If your appointment is soon, follow this checklist for best results:
- Wash your hair
Many wonder: Should I wash my hair before a hair appointment?
Yes, absolutely, you should wash hair extensions when you first get them. Use a clarifying shampoo for extensions (not your regular shampoo) to remove oils, serums, and styling products. Ask your stylist to recommend a suitable product.
If you arrive with dirty hair and the salon doesn’t offer washing services, your appointment might be cancelled. - Conditioner: yes or no?
This depends on your hair tech instructions. Some allow a light conditioner applied only to the ends, while others recommend skipping all products on the day of the appointment. - Avoid masks, oils, and styling products
These can prevent proper bonding and cause bonds or tapes to slip down. Your hair must be perfectly clean. - Make sure your hair is completely dry and thoroughly brushed
Damp or wet hair can interfere with the attachment process. Ensure all knots are removed before arriving.
Also, be prepared to spend 1.5 to 6+ hours in the salon, depending on the extension technique and amount of hair. Confirm the estimated time with your stylist in advance.
Choosing the Right Extensions for Perfect Results
The final look depends not only on your pre-appointment preparations. You should also pay attention when selecting:
- Material
Wondering: can I bring my own extensions to a salon?
Some stylists allow it, others don’t — usually due to concerns about hair quality. For example, all Asian hair is processed in ways that damage the cuticle, making the strands tangle and matte quickly.
To avoid this, consider purchasing high-quality hair extensions from our store: Slavic hair for soft, fine, virgin hair, Russian (dyed) hair for medium-texture strands, European hair for thick, dense hair types.
- Extension methods
The most comfortable and discreet methods include fusion hair extensions with micro bonds and hand-tied wefts.
At I Love Slavic Hair, you can purchase the best-quality k-tip hair extensions, or order custom-made wefts tailored to your individual needs and preferences. - Hair stylist selection
We recommend reviewing the stylist’s portfolio, reading client feedback, and checking what methods they specialize in.
Let Us Help You Find A Perfect Match
Achieve your dream hairstyle with top-quality virgin Slavic, Russian, and European hair extensions that can be dyed, styled, and treated just like your own hair.
We can help you to find the perfect hair match in 3 easy steps:
Fill out our questionnaire
Attach photos of your hair
Receive pictures & videos of hair bundles
Get Your FREE Shade Match Today!
MATCH MEPost-Appointment Hair Extension Tips
After your hair extensions appointment, it's time to take care of them properly to maintain their appearance and avoid damage to both your natural and added hair.
Avoid these mistakes right after the hair extension installation:
- Getting your hair wet
Do not wash your hair for 48 hours after the appointment to allow bonds or adhesive to be fully set. - Visiting saunas or tanning beds
Avoid heat exposure (saunas, hot showers) for 2–3 days. High temperatures can weaken adhesives or keratin bonds. - Using shampoos with sulfates or oils
Harsh formulas can break down bonds. Avoid applying conditioners, masks, or oils near the roots — use them only on the mid-length and ends. - Brushing wet hair
Wet hair is more vulnerable and brushing it can pull out the extensions. Wait until your hair is fully dry. - Sleeping with wet or loose hair
Always dry your hair before bed and braid it loosely to prevent tangling. - Tight hairstyles that strain the bonds
Avoid tight ponytails, buns, or any styles that create tension at the roots.
Proper maintenance for hair extensions includes:
- Washing
Use lukewarm water and avoid vigorous scrubbing at the roots. Be gentle around the bonds to prevent tangling. - High-quality hair care products
Consult your stylist to choose shampoos, conditioners, and masks suitable for extensions. Basic care includes: Shampoo + conditioner (after each wash), nourishing hair mask (once a week) - Brushes
Avoid brushes with balls on the bristles. Use a special brush for hair extensions, like the Janeke Mixed Bristle Brush with Nylon & Boar Bristles, which gently detangles and smooths strands.
Always hold the hair at the root while brushing to avoid pulling out the extensions. - Heat protection
If you regularly blow-dry, straighten, or curl your hair, invest in a high-quality heat protectant. Ask your stylist for product recommendations. - Nighttime care
Braid your hair into a loose plait and secure it with silk scrunchies to reduce friction and tangling. Silk pillowcases can also help protect your hair. - Scheduled maintenance
Discuss with your hair tech when you should return for touch-ups. Skipping maintenance can damage your natural hair and reduce the lifespan of your extensions.
Read more in our blog for hair extensions care tips at home to make extensions last longer.
By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy long, beautiful hair that looks and feels amazing.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to I Love Slavic Hair — we’re here to help you achieve perfect extensions!
