How to Prepare Your Hair for Extensions: A Pre-Appointment Checklist

By Janelle Alexis | Hair Extensions

The prep work you do before your extension appointment affects how well they install, how long they last, and how natural they look. I share this checklist with every new extension client because I want them walking out with a perfect result — and that starts before they even sit in my chair.

2 Weeks Before: Hair Health Check

If your hair has been heavily colored, bleached, or chemically processed in the last month, I recommend a protein treatment or Olaplex treatment before your extension install. Extensions sit best on hair that is strong and has intact bonds. Weak or over-processed hair will not hold extensions as well and can experience accelerated breakage during the extension lifecycle.

1 Week Before: Scalp Care

Do a clarifying shampoo treatment 7-10 days before your appointment to remove any product buildup. Then use a moisturizing treatment or mask to bring your hair back to a good hydration level. You want clean, healthy, moisturized hair going into extension day — not stripped or dry.

Day Before: Get a Trim if Needed

If your ends are split, frayed, or damaged, this is the time to get a light trim. I can do a trim the day of extensions but it is easier to work with hair that is already in good shape. Split ends will continue to travel up the hair shaft after extensions are installed, and can affect the blending.

Morning Of: Wash Protocol

Wash your hair the morning of your appointment with a clarifying or extension-safe shampoo. Do NOT use conditioner. Do NOT use any products — no leave-in, no oil, no heat protectant. Your hair needs to be 100 percent product-free so the tape adhesive has a clean surface to bond to. Even a trace of conditioner near your roots can cause tape-ins to slip prematurely.

At the Appointment: What to Bring

Bring photos of the look you want. If you have a specific length, color, or style in mind, photos are the clearest communication tool. Also bring any questions you have about aftercare — I want to make sure you leave fully informed and confident about maintaining your new hair.

Ready to book your extension appointment? Schedule here. Questions? Reach out anytime.

— Janelle Alexis