Malia Journal

How to Wash Hair Extensions in 5 Easy Steps

So, your roots feel oily by day three, but your extensions still look perfect. You then wash everything, and your install pays the price. Sound familiar? Most extension wearers fall into this cycle at some point. The good news is there's a simple fix. Here's how often to wash hair extensions and how crown washing keeps your roots fresh. You'll also learn how it helps your install last longer. How Often Should I Wash My Hair Extensions Most stylists recommend washing once or twice a week. Extensions don't get natural oils from your scalp, so they dry out faster. Every full wash strips a little more moisture from your lengths. Over time, that can lead to frizz, tangles, and a dull finish. Your scalp, though, may need refreshing every day or two. It keeps producing oil, sweat, and product buildup no matter what. That's where the problem starts. Your roots want a wash, but your extensions don't. Crown washing fills that gap. Always follow your stylist's guidance for your installation method. Tape-ins, wefts, and other methods can each have their own care needs. Signs It's Time To Refresh Your Roots Not sure when to crown wash? Your scalp usually tells you. Watch for these signs: Your roots look flat or greasy, while your lengths still look smooth. Your scalp feels itchy after a workout or a busy day. Dry shampoo isn't cutting it anymore. Your part looks heavier than the rest of your hair. If any of these sound familiar, a crown wash can revive your roots. What is Crown Washing Crown washing (also called a top wash) means washing only your scalp and crown. Your lengths stay dry the whole time. The benefits add up quickly: Fresher roots, without waiting for your next full wash. Less wear on your extensions, since they skip extra wash cycles. A faster routine that fits into busy mornings. An install that lasts longer between appointments. The hard part has always been keeping the rest of your hair dry. A regular shower cap slips, leaks, or sits in the wrong spot. That's why we partnered with RŪTE, the first shower cap designed for crown washing. How To Wash Hair Extensions in 5 Easy Steps The RŪTE Shower Cap is built specifically for extension wearers. Each feature has a job: Water-resistant material keeps your lengths dry. A silicone non-slip grip holds the cap in place. An adjustable band lets you set exactly where the cap sits. A silk inner lining protects your hair from friction and frizz. Here's how to use it: Detangle gently from ends to roots. This helps prevent knots while your hair is tucked away. Section your crown and twist the rest of your hair into a loose bun. Keep it loose to avoid tension on your bonds or wefts. Tuck the bun into RŪTE and adjust the band so it sits snugly at your hairline. Make sure the band sits just below the section you plan to wash. Wash just your crown, aiming the water at the top of your head. Tilt your head back slightly so water runs away from the cap. Dry and style, blending your crown into your lengths. A quick blow-dry at the roots helps everything look seamless. Hair Extension Aftercare Tips for Stylists As a hair extension stylist, your client's aftercare routine decides how long their install lasts. Over-washing is one of the most common reasons extensions wear out early. Teaching clients how to crown wash is one of the easiest ways to protect your work. It also builds trust, since clients see you care about their results. Show clients how to crown wash before they leave the chair. Recommend a shower cap made for hair extensions, like the RŪTE Shower Cap, with every install. Add crown washing to your aftercare instructions. That way, clients know how often to wash their extensions at home. Check in at follow-up appointments to see how their routine is going. The result: healthier installs, fewer fix appointments, and happier clients. Happy clients also come back and refer their friends. Wash Your Crown, Save Your Install Your scalp deserves to feel fresh, and your extensions deserve to last. With crown washing and the RŪTE Shower Cap, you don't have to choose. Keep your roots clean, your lengths protected, and your install looking its best for longer.