Best Hair Products for Hair Extensions (Tried + Tested)
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If you have hair extensions, you want hair products that hydrate, protect, and add shine without weighing your hair down. After years of testing (and product hoarding), I’ve finally narrowed my routine down to only a few essential products I swear by. I have color-treated hair with 20-inch extensions, and these have been total game changers. All the products I recommend are vegan and cruelty-free.
Why Hair with Extensions Needs Special Care
Extensions require gentle care — too much product or the wrong kind can cause buildup, damage, or make your extensions slip. Plus, color-treated hair often needs extra hydration without heaviness. That’s why picking the right shampoo, conditioner, and styling products is a must.
1. Shampoo: Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo
I use the PUREOLOGY Hydrate Sheer Shampoo as my go-to cleanser for color-treated hair with extensions. It’s lightweight but still gives a satisfying, deep cleanse without stripping moisture or weighing hair down.
I’ve heard that with salon-quality shampoos you only need a small amount, but I still use a normal amount to get that rich, foamy lather (it’s too satisfying not to). The liter size is a great value and lasts forever—especially if you stock up during a sale.
How I use it: I focus shampoo mostly on my scalp and roots, where buildup tends to collect, and let it rinse through the lengths. I wash my hair twice for the best clean without over drying.
2. Conditioner: Pureology Hydrate Conditioner
I pair the Hydrate Sheer Shampoo with the PUREOLOGY Hydrate Conditioner, and together they’ve been a winning combination for hair extensions. The conditioner is rich and moisturizing but doesn’t leave any heavy residue, which is a must for avoiding buildup near the bonds.
It leaves my hair soft, shiny, and frizz-free. I’m not obsessed with the minty scent—it’s a little strong for me—but honestly, the results are so good that I keep coming back to it.
How I use it: I apply conditioner mainly to the mid-lengths and ends, keeping it away from the roots to avoid weighing them down.
3. Heat Protectant + Leave-In Spray: Pureology Color Fanatic
The PUREOLOGY Color Fanatic Leave-In Spray is my go-to multitasker. It works as a leave-in conditioner, detangler, and heat protectant. After blow-drying or styling, my hair feels so soft and smooth — and it definitely helps with frizz.
It also adds a soft shine that makes my hair look super healthy, which is a must when you have extensions.
Pro Tip: Spray this lightly and evenly — too much can make fine hair look greasy or weighed down.
4. Dry Shampoo: QUICKIE.ME Dry Shampoo for Dark Tones
I’ve tested countless dry shampoos over the years, searching for one that works well —something that doesn’t weigh it down, leave a chalky residue, or have an overpowering floral scent. One favorite in my daily rotation is the QUICKIE.ME Dry Shampoo for Dark Tones. It blends seamlessly with brunette roots and minimizes that heavy white cast some dry shampoos leave behind.
It’s lightweight, has a fresh and subtly sweet scent, and adds just the right amount of texture and volume. I’ve found it works best as a refresher between washes—once your hair gets too oily, even the best dry shampoo can only do so much.
5. Hair Oil: Loma Nourishing Hair Oil
This oil is a hidden gem. The Loma Nourishing Hair Oil is lightweight, non-greasy, and smells incredible — like vanilla and orange (basically an aromatherapy creamsicle).
It softens my hair, adds shine, and never weighs it down. It also works as a heat protectant up to 450°F, which makes it super versatile. I only use a tiny amount, and the 100ml bottle has lasted me forever.
How I use it: I apply a small drop or two on hands and evenly distribute through my hair after styling to keep hair smooth, shiny and frizz-free.
Styling Tips for Hair Extensions
Less is more: Use lightweight products and avoid heavy creams or oils near your scalp.
Gentle brushing: Use a soft-bristle brush to prevent pulling on your extensions.
Regular washing: Don’t let your hair get too oily, which can cause extension slippage.
Go sulfate-free: Stick to sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to protect both your natural hair and your extensions from drying out or weakening.
Protect at night: Sleep with your hair in a loose braid or wrapped in a silk scarf to reduce tangles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I wash my hair with extensions?
A: I wash only 1-2 times per week. Too much washing can dry out your hair and extensions, but too little can lead to buildup — which is why I rely on dry shampoo daily between washes to keep my hair looking fresh and clean. Washing less also helps preserve color longer, keeping your hair vibrant for longer.
Q: Can I use these products if I have oily scalp?
A: Yes! Just make sure to focus shampoo on your scalp and conditioner on the ends to avoid weighing down your roots.
Q: Will these products damage my extensions?
A: All of these are gentle and formulated to protect color-treated and extension hair. Avoid anything with sulfates or heavy silicones.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve got color-treated hair with extensions, these products can truly make a difference. They help me maintain healthy, smooth, and manageable hair without buildup or heaviness. Whether you’re new to extensions or just looking to refresh your routine, I hope this list helps you find a few new favorites!
If you have any go-to products I should try, drop them in the comments — I’m always looking for new gems to test!