1. Gentle Washing

• Frequency: Wash your extensions sparingly to avoid drying them out. Aim to wash them every 7-10 days, or as needed.
• Shampoo: Use a sulfate-free shampoo, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural moisture and cause tangling.
• Conditioning: Apply a moisturizing conditioner to keep the hair soft and hydrated. Focus on the ends and avoid applying too much product to the roots.

2. Detangle Carefully

Tools: Always use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove knots, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots.

Drying: Avoid vigorous towel-drying, as this can lead to frizz and damage. Instead, gently blot the hair with a towel to remove excess water.

3. Protect From Heat Styling

• Heat Protection: Always apply a heat protectant spray or serum before using any hot tools like curling irons or straighteners to prevent heat damage.
• Temperature: Set your styling tools to a low or medium heat setting to avoid over-drying or damaging the extensions.

4. Maintain the Waves

• Avoid Over-Washing: Over-washing can strip the extensions of their natural wave pattern. If needed, use a dry shampoo to refresh your waves without washing.
• Curling Iron: If the waves lose their shape, use a curling iron or wand with a low heat setting to touch up the waves. Be sure to curl sections of the hair loosely to maintain a natural, beachy look.
• Texturizing Products: To enhance and define the waves, use a sea salt spray, mousse, or a texturizing spray. These products help add volume and give a natural, beachy texture without weighing the hair down.

5. Proper Drying Techniques

• Air Drying: Let your wavy extensions air-dry whenever possible to maintain the texture. If you need to speed up the drying process, use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting.
• Avoid Heat: If you can, try to avoid excessive blow-drying or using hot tools regularly, as constant heat can cause the extensions to lose their natural luster and wave pattern.

6. Store Your Extensions Properly

• Storage: When not in use, store your extensions in a cool, dry place, ideally in a silk or satin pouch to prevent tangling. If they’re clip-ins, ensure they are clipped neatly to avoid any damage to the wefts.
• Avoid Contact with Oils: Keep hair extensions away from direct contact with oils and products that could weigh them down or alter their texture.

7. Regular Maintenance and Trims

• Trim Ends: Just like natural hair, wavy extensions need occasional trimming to keep the ends looking fresh and prevent split ends from forming.
• Professional Care: Every few months, consider bringing your extensions to a professional stylist for deep conditioning or reapplication to ensure they remain in top condition.

8. Sleep Smart

• Protection at Night: Before going to bed, braid your wavy extensions loosely to prevent tangling or frizz. Alternatively, you can wear a silk or satin hair bonnet to protect the waves and keep them intact overnight.
• Avoid Cotton Pillowcases: Cotton can cause friction, leading to tangling and frizz. Opt for silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction and maintain the smoothness of your extensions.

9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals

• Swimming: If you plan to swim in chlorine or saltwater, consider wearing a swim cap to protect your extensions. These chemicals can strip the hair of moisture and alter its texture.
• Hair Products: Avoid using products that contain alcohol, as they can dry out the extensions and make them more prone to frizz.

By following these tips, you can maintain your wavy hair extensions looking fresh, beautiful, and natural for longer!