The First 48 Hours
Your braids are still settling, so keep pressure and heat off the install for the first two days.
- No wash for 48 hours. Give the install time to settle before your first wash.
- No tight ponytails for the first week. Wear your hair down or in a loose, low bun to protect the braids underneath.
- Sleep on silk or satin. Tie your hair loosely at the nape of your neck, and never pile it on top of your head.
- Brush morning and night. Start at the ends and work your way up, holding the hair at the seam so you do not tug on it.
Daily & Weekly Care
A simple, consistent routine works better than heavy product. The most common mistakes are washing too often and loading the braid base with conditioner.
- Wash every 7 to 10 days with a sulfate-free shampoo. Massage your scalp, and never scrub the braids.
- Apply conditioner from mid-shaft to ends, and never on the braid base.
- Dry the braid base and seams completely before drying the rest of your hair, because wet seams slip.
- Mist a leave-in down the lengths and keep the roots light.
Wig Installs
Your wig lasts longest when you handle it gently and keep your scalp and hairline healthy underneath.
- Sleep in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to protect the wig and your hairline.
- Detangle the wig gently, starting at the ends and working your way up.
- Keep your scalp clean, and make sure your hair and scalp are completely dry after washing.
- Avoid pulling or placing tension on your edges.
- Message me if the wig starts to lift or loosen so we can book a refresh.
Keeping Your Extension Hair Soft
Weave hair does not receive the natural oils from your scalp, so it depends on you for moisture. If your ends feel dry or rough, plan a treatment at your refresh appointment.
- Mist the lengths a few times a week and keep the braid base light.
- Seal the ends with a light oil, and keep it away from the braid base.
- Use a heat protectant every time you use heat on the wefts, and keep heat low.
What to avoid
- Heavy oils, butters, or grease at the root or on the braid base.
- Pulling, twisting, or scratching at the seam, even if it itches.
- Sleeping with wet hair.
- Chlorine or saltwater, unless you rinse and condition right afterward.
Refresh Timeline
Plan to refresh every 4 to 5 weeks. Every head of hair is different, and an install can last up to 8 weeks before it needs to be fully removed.
Week 1
Settle in
Wait 48 hours before washing, skip tight ponytails, and hold the hair at the seam when you brush.
Week 2 to 3
Mid-cycle
Keep conditioner off the braid base, and dry the seams completely after every wash.
Week 4 to 5
Refresh
Come back for your weave maintenance appointment.
If you feel a braid getting tight, message me before it turns into a knot. A quick fix in the salon is much easier than losing a row.
Questions at any time
If anything feels off, take a photo of the area and text me at (857) 233-1147 or send a DM to @bostonhairpro. If you reach out within 7 days of your install, we will book a complimentary adjustment.