You may like using extensions like me but I keep wondering why does my hair feel so thin after extensions? Hair extensions are an excellent way to make your hair longer, thicker, and more luscious, without actually having to grow longer hair. You can have short hair and use hair extensions, or medium length and use hair extensions to make your hair even longer.
There are many different types of hair extensions. From clip-in extensions, tape-in extensions, weaves, fused extensions, micro-links, pre-bonded extensions, those made with real human hair, and those made with synthetic hair, there’s a type of extension for everyone. While extensions can be a great way to thicken hair, it also comes with its own side effects and things to be aware of.
One of the most common feelings after taking extensions out is that hair feels thin. This could be due to a variety of reasons, so let’s take a closer look at why your hair feels so thin after extensions and what you can do to prevent it and care for your hair!
Is it Normal to Lose Hair after Taking Extensions Out?
The hair extension industry is booming, and with it, the trend of hair extensions and all the fun that comes with it. There are many reasons to get hair extensions, especially if you have naturally shorter hair. Unfortunately, no matter what kind of hair you have or what kind of extensions you get, they all share a common side effect. Hair loss!
If you think of movie stars when you think of hair extensions, then maybe this will make more sense. Even actress Jennifer Anniston reports on her hair loss from extensions, saying how they caused her to cut the rest of her hair off because it was so thin it was irreparable. Hair loss is normal from hair extensions and is one of the biggest things to consider before getting them.
Reasons why Hair thins out After Extensions
Here are some of the reasons why your hair thins out after extensions. Sometimes, hair feels thin after extensions simply due to taking them out. You’ve gotten used to thicker hair. You’ve acclimated to the way it looks, feels, and now they’re gone, and you’re left with thinner hair again. This could simply take time to get used to and make your hair feel extra thin.
However, it’s also common for hair to become damaged after hair extensions, and especially after their removal. Some kinds of hair extensions are tightly braided into hair, leading to intense pulling and friction against the hair follicles.
If you’ve ever been told by your mother not to wear a ponytail all the time as this can cause your hair line to recede, this follows the same concept. Hair loss experts have pointed to the intense traction and pulling on hair follicles to be one of the main reasons why hair may fall out and feel thin after removing extensions.
How to Repair Damaged Hair After Extensions
If you’ve already gotten a few rounds of hair extensions and are noticing your hair feels thinner and thinner, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do to maintain your hair health.
1. Avoid Heat
Avoiding heat is not only one of the best things you can do for your hair all the time, but it’s an excellent way to prevent further damage to your hair. Heat damage can lead to split ends, hair breakage, excessive thinning, roughness, dry hair, frizzy hair, dullness, and even change the color of hair dye.
We know not being able to use things like curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers is inconvenient, but trust us. Having your hair fall out and look thin is even more inconvenient.
Try to avoid as much heat as possible. You can blow dry your hair on cool, try heatless curls by sleeping in braids or a bun, and use a heat protectant if you absolutely must use heat. You can even rinse your hair with cold water instead of warm or hot water to protect your hair further.
2. Consider Hair Treatments
If you’ve recently had hair extensions removed and notice your hair feels thinner or is falling out more frequently, consider getting hair treatments. You can go to your local salon to get this done or even find some to use at home. Use hair treatments once a week for the best results and follow the directions on the treatment you get.
3. Hydrate your Hair
Keeping your hair hydrated is one of the best ways you can ensure your hair is healthy after extensions and minimize breakage. When hair becomes dry after extensions, it’s common for it to break more easily.
Supplementing your hair’s hydration is one of the best ways you can help minimize breakage even with extensions. consider moisturizing conditions, shampoos, hair masks, leave-in conditioners, and other moisturizing products to use in your hair.
4. Brush Your Hair Gently
Brushing your hair is another way you can take care of your hair with and without extensions. The natural oils in your hair are nourishing for the follicles and help them stay hydrated and healthy.
With extensions, your hair is often unable to get the oils like it usually would, so brushing your hair helps move the oils from your scalp to the ends of your hair. You can also use a serum or oil like argan oil to keep your hair nourished and healthy.
5. Take Vitamins and Supplements
Many vitamins and supplements are packed with nutrients that help maintain hair health. Find vitamins and supplements with Vitamin E or black currant seed oil. These are rich in acids that support hair growth, promote blood flow, and help your follicles grow and stay shiny.
6. Sun Protection
Sun protection is one of the most important ways you can keep your hair healthy. Sun damage has negative effects on hair very similar to heat damage. It can cause hair to become dry, break easily, and experience split ends.
If your hair has just come out of extensions or is still in them, it’s even more prone to breakage, so using SPF on your hair is key.
There are many products to protect your hair from the sun, like Living Proof Restore Instant Protection Spray, Alterna Bamboo Beach BB Balm for Hair, and more. Using SPF on your hair also protects your scalp from sun damage!
7. Get a Silk Pillowcase
Getting a silk pillowcase is another way you can take care of your hair! Most pillowcases can lead to breakage when you toss and turn on your pillow. Especially if your hair is already dry, has split ends, and is prone to breakage, then your pillowcase can do extra damage after extensions.
Silk pillowcases are smooth, gentle on hair, gentle on skin, and will minimize damage to your hair while you sleep! You can also invest in a silk bonnet or satin bonnet for your hair to protect it while you sleep!
In Conclusion
Hair extensions can do a lot of damage due to the pulling and tugging on your hair follicles. In fact, all types of hair extensions, if used too often, can result in some thinning of your hair. While you don’t have to ditch extensions altogether, it is important to know the effects extensions can have on your hair and how to counteract them to keep your hair healthy.
I guess you now understand why your hair feels so thin after extensions.
