Should You Wash Hair Extensions Before Using Them? What The Pros Really Do
/ JAN 23, 2026
Reading Time: 5 Minutes
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Should you wash hair extensions before using them? It’s one of the most common questions people ask when they get their hands on a fresh set, and honestly, it’s a good one. You’ve opened the box, obsessed with the shine, clipped one weft against your head “just to see”, and now you’re wondering whether you should head straight out the door or straight to the sink. No need to panic – we’re here to guide you through all of the main do’s and don’ts for the perfect hair extension wash routine!
What Hair Extensions Do You Wear?
Whether you’re a hair extension newbie or someone who wears extensions regularly, it’s worth thinking about what kind you use or want to use. There’s a big difference between clip in hair extensions and permanent hair extensions when it comes to washing them before use. Clip in extensions are designed to be flexible, removable, and easy to care for at home. Permanent extensions, such as tape ins, nano rings, or weaves, are applied by a professional and usually treated slightly differently, especially before installation.
Should You Wash Hair Extensions Before Using Them?
If you’re planning on wearing clip in extensions, then the answer is yes, it’s recommended to wash them before your first wear. Premium human hair extensions, also known as Remy hair extensions, are treated during the manufacturing process with a factory-fresh coating that keeps the hair smooth, glossy, and protected while it’s in the packaging. Although some may prefer this instant, sleek look, washing your clip-in hair extensions removes this chemical sheen and allows the hair to behave more naturally, making it easier to blend with your own hair and style the way you want. If you’ve been wondering how to make hair extensions look less shiny, then this is the right solution for you!
If you’re investing in permanent hair extensions that are being installed by a stylist, it’s completely normal for them not to be washed beforehand, but many pro stylists do, particularly for major events like a bridal styling. Some stylists will lightly wash or dampen the extensions before dying and styling to remove the seal and allow the hair to expand, making it feel fuller and even giving it a more secure grip during the application.
Darker hair colours can also run slightly when they first get wet, just like our own hair does when its freshly dyed on the first wash. Washing before application removes any risk of dying running when you’re out and on the go. This is perfectly normal, with the dye behaving the same way as it would if applied to your own natural hair.
On the other hand, washing can sometimes slow down the installation process significantly, and some professionals prefer to apply them straight from the pack. The good news is, you can wash and care for them at home once they’re firmly in place, following the advice given by your stylist.
How to Wash Clip In Hair Extensions
Knowing how to wash hair extensions properly is just as important as knowing when to do it. For clip in hair extensions, a gentle routine is key. You should never wash clip ins while still attached to the head as this can cause damage to your natural hair as well as the extensions. That’s why many people love using a hair extension holder, which keeps the wefts secure and tangle-free while washing. It can be used at home or in a salon, in the shower or over a sink, making the whole process far less chaotic than trying to juggle loose strands and running water.
Before washing, gently detangle your extensions with our detangling brush. Secure them onto the holder, then rinse with lukewarm water. Hot water is a no-go, as it can dry out the hair. The best shampoo for hair extensions is ideally sulphate-free, which is why our Deep Moisture Shampoo is safe for your strands. Apply generously all over the extensions and smooth the shampoo along the hair in a downward motion. Never scrub, twist, or bunch the hair together. Follow with our Deep Moisture conditioner through the mid-lengths and ends, rinse thoroughly, and gently squeeze out excess water. Lay the hair flat or leave it on the holder to air dry for best results.
What Happens to Hair Extensions After You Wash Them?
After washing, don’t be alarmed if your extensions don’t look exactly the same as they did straight out of the box. Once the coating is removed, the hair settles into its natural, more lived-in texture. As these are high-quality human hair extensions, they often develop a soft, natural movement or a slight wave once dry. This is completely normal and actually a good sign, as it means the hair will now respond better to styling and feel more realistic.
Styling Hair Extensions After The First Wash
Styling hair extensions after washing is where the magic really happens. Using the hair extension holder while air-drying, blow-drying or styling keeps everything neat and manageable. Always apply a Heat Protection Spray before using hot tools and opt for lightweight styling serums like our Silky Spray to avoid product build-up.
With the right care, your clip in hair extensions will return to a sleek, soft finish and maintain that natural look that blends effortlessly with your own hair. Remy hair extensions, in particular, are known for keeping their smoothness and shine when treated properly. And if you’re wondering “do extensions get thicker after washing?” then yes, they definitely can look and feel that way, particularly after some TLC and gentle styling.
How to Keep On Top of Your Haircare
Keeping on top of haircare is what makes professional hair extensions last. Incorporating nourishing hair masks every few weeks, using serums on the ends, and limiting heat styling will go a long way. Heat protection is essential every single time you style, whether your extensions are clip ins or permanent extensions. Proper storage also matters for clip in extensions, as keeping them brushed and protected between wears prevents tangling and dryness.
Conclusion:
Still not sure? If you’re wondering the answer to the big question: then yes, you should make the effort to wash your clip in hair extensions before using them, particularly if you’ve been searching how to make clip in extensions look natural. Alternatively, no, permanent hair extensions don’t necessarily need immediate washing before the professional installation.
A simple first wash sets your extensions up for success, helping them look more natural, feel softer, and last longer. Treat them well, and they’ll reward you with great hair days over and over again!
