Aftercare & FAQ's

Selecting the right hair extension colour is just as important as the type and length—it’s key to achieving a seamless, natural look that blends beautifully with your own hair. At Strands of Love, we offer a wide range of stunning shades to help you find your perfect match.

Why Colour Matching Matters: A flawless extension transformation depends on how well the extension colour matches your natural hair. When done right, no one should be able to tell you’re wearing extensions—just that your hair looks fuller, longer, and more radiant.

Warm vs. Cool Tones: Start by identifying your hair’s undertone:

♡ Warm undertones: Look for golden, honey, caramel, or copper hues.

♡ Cool undertones: Ash, beige, platinum, or icy shades will suit you better.

♡ Neutral undertones: You have more flexibility and can often wear both warm and cool tones.

Our range includes warm blondes, cool ash browns, rich chocolates, icy platinums, highlighted blends, and rooted ombrés—all crafted from 100% Remy human hair.

♡ Match the extensions to the mid-lengths and ends

♡ Don't match to your roots unless your hair is one solid colour.

♡ Extensions should blend with the hair that frames your face and falls over your shoulders.

♡ Go slightly lighter if unsure

♡ Lighter extensions are easier to tone darker than to lighten.

♡ A subtle contrast can create natural-looking depth and dimension.

♡ Consider ombré blended or highlighted shades

♡ Multi-tonal or blended colours offer the most realistic and dynamic finish. These are ideal if your hair has highlights or varying tones.

♡ Always assess colour in natural daylight—artificial lighting can distort tone.

♡ Professional colour matching: We offer professional colour wheels to hair stylist to assist with matching your colour.

♡ Alternatively, send us a few photos taken in natural light and we will help you choose the colour closest to your natural hair.

♡ We also offer custom colour orders for a completely tailored result.

We’re here to help you make the right choice! Reach out to us via email or WhatsApp with a clear photo of your hair in natural light, and our team will assist you in finding the most natural match.

📧 Email: customersupport@strandsoflove.co.za

📲 WhatsApp: +27 83 619 8975

Proper washing techniques are vital to maintain the integrity of your extensions.​

Initial Wash: Wait at least 48 hours after installation before washing your hair to allow the K-tip bonds or tapes to set properly.​ This also applies to men's non-surgical hair systems. Wefts can be washed after installation when no glues are used with the installation.

Washing Technique: Gently wash your hair in a downward motion, avoiding scrubbing or twisting. This prevents tangling and stress on the extensions.​

Scalp Care: Ensure that shampoo reaches the scalp and the areas around the bonds or tapes to prevent oil buildup, which can cause slippage.​

Product Selection: Use sulfate-free, hydrating shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for hair extensions. Avoid silver shampoos and products containing protein or keratin, as they can make extensions feel dry and brittle.​ 

Moisture Maintenance: Incorporate deep conditioning treatments and hair oils, to keep extensions hydrated and shiny. Blonde or chemically treated hair may require additional moisture.​

Drying: Pat hair dry with a towel and avoid brushing wet hair. Dry the roots first to secure the bonds or tapes before styling.​

Colour changes: Please note that some colours will change over time. Certain chemicals in hair products will also change the colour of your extensions to warmer shades/undertones, so always use chemical-free and sulphate-free hair products. Be careful of high heat. Light blondes will change to a yellow shade if heat used on the extensions is too high.

If you experience knotting or bunching of your extensions, opt for a moisture treatment on your OWN hair and your extensions. In some cases, your own hair's cuticles and the cuticles of the extensions can hook which can cause this issue. Smoothing out your own hair's cuticles with a treatment will prevent this from happening. Also use a hair oil twice a day on the area where you are experiencing more knotting or bunching.

Keep in mind that wearing scarfs, jackets or high collars (specially in winter) can result in hair bunching close to the neckline. Have a brush and hair oil nearby to assist when this happens.

At Strands of Love, we understand that premium hair extensions deserve premium aftercare. That’s why we proudly recommend our SoL Shampoo and Conditioner — expertly formulated to support both natural hair and human hair extensions, ensuring long-lasting beauty, strength, and vitality.

Both the SoL Shampoo and SoL Conditioner are crafted with advanced hair repair technology and a powerful blend of natural ingredients that penetrate deep into the hair shaft. This means optimal nourishment, hydration, and revitalization — from root to tip.

♡ Deep hydration for dry or damaged hair

♡ Detangles and softens strands, reducing breakage and split ends

♡ Stimulates hair growth and oxygen flow to follicles

♡ Restores vitality to both your own hair and extensions

♡ Combats hair fall and premature greying

♡ Rich in Vitamins A, B1, B2, D, E, minerals, and antioxidants for healthy, strong hair

♡ Sulphate free and Ammonia-free

Formulated with botanical extracts like nettle, clary sage, chamomile, rosemary, avocado oil, wheat germ oil, olive fruit oil, and shea butter, SoL Shampoo deeply cleanses while protecting the integrity of your extensions. It maintains softness and elasticity while soothing the scalp and preventing buildup.

Infused with ingredients such as aloe vera, horsetail, macadamia oil, argan oil, orange flower, and panthenol, SoL Conditioner offers intense moisture and repair. It strengthens weak ends and brings back the shine and silkiness of healthy hair — crucial for keeping extensions looking natural and lustrous.

Unlike standard shampoos and conditioners, SoL is uniquely formulated to care for 100% human hair extensions. It maintains their texture, prevents tangling, and prolongs their life by keeping them nourished without weighing them down or causing build-up.

Let’s explore why SoL works — not just what’s in it, but how each ingredient helps your hair thrive:

🌱 Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice)

Deeply hydrates and soothes the scalp

Promotes healing of damaged skin and follicles

Strengthens hair strands and encourages growth

🌿 Rosemary Leaf Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis)

Stimulates blood circulation to the scalp

Encourages hair growth and reduces hair loss

Contains anti-inflammatory properties to soothe irritation

🍃 Chamomile Flower Extract (Anthemis Nobilis)

Adds natural shine and softness

Calms dry, itchy scalp and reduces dandruff

Gentle and soothing for sensitive skin

🌾 Wheat Germ Oil (Triticum Vulgare)

Rich in Vitamin E for strengthening and repairing damaged hair

Adds elasticity and moisture

Helps prevent breakage and split ends

🌿 Nettle Extract (Urtica Dioica)

Rich in silica and sulfur, which support hair strength

Reduces hair shedding and promotes new growth

Balances oil production

🌼 Calendula & Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extracts

Anti-inflammatory and healing properties

Boosts scalp health and strengthens hair follicles

Promotes smoother, shinier strands

🌾 Horsetail Extract (Equisetum Arvense)

High in silica for strong, thick hair

Aids in faster hair growth

Prevents brittleness and enhances shine

🌸 Clary Sage Extract (Salvia Sclarea)

Regulates oil production

Improves scalp health and reduces dandruff

Helps balance hormones that can affect hair loss

🍊 Orange Flower Extract (Citrus Aurantium)

Invigorates the scalp with a fresh scent

Strengthens the hair shaft

Improves circulation for growth

🥑 Avocado Oil (Persea Gratissima)

Deeply nourishes dry and damaged hair

Rich in healthy fats, vitamins A, D, and E

Seals in moisture for long-lasting hydration

🌰 Macadamia Seed Oil (Macadamia Ternifolia)

Softens coarse or brittle hair

Mimics the scalp’s natural oils, ideal for extensions

Adds shine and smoothness

🌰 Argan Oil (Argania Spinosa)

Protects hair from environmental damage

Tames frizz and flyaways

Restores silkiness and shine

🌴 Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)

Prevents protein loss in both natural hair and extensions

Acts as a deep conditioner

Adds intense hydration and softness

🌰 Olive Oil (Olea Europaea)

Improves elasticity and strength

Adds radiant shine

Reduces frizz and smooths cuticles

🥥 Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii)

Repairs and protects hair from heat and styling damage

Locks in moisture without making hair greasy

Enhances softness and manageability

💧 Hydration Meets Science

Formulated with gentle surfactants and nourishing emollients like:

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) – Boosts moisture retention

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein – Adds strength and resilience

Polyquaternium-7 – Smooths, detangles, and reduces static

Glycerine – A natural humectant that attracts moisture

Vitamin Complex (A, B1, B2, D, E) – Enhances overall hair health and shine

Hair extensions lack the natural oils your scalp produces — making hydration and nourishment crucial for keeping them smooth, shiny, and tangle-free. 

♡ Prevent matting and dryness

♡ Extend the lifespan of your extensions

♡ Keep your hair silky, soft, and manageable

Elevate your haircare ritual with SoL Shampoo and Conditioner. Whether you're nurturing your natural hair or protecting your gorgeous Strands of Love extensions, SoL is your go-to for long-lasting beauty and strength.

💖 Invest in your hair. Add SoL to your cart today.

♡ Fino Hair Mask/Treatment 

♡ Joico Color Therapy Treatment

♡ Fino Hair Oil

♡ Wella Reflection Oil

Using the right products is essential for the longevity and appearance of your extensions.​

Hydration: Since extensions do not receive natural oils from the scalp, regular use of moisturizing products is necessary.​

Product Rotation: Switching products periodically can prevent buildup and maintain hair health.​ When your hair start to fee dry, change your products.

Monthly Treatments: Apply deep conditioning treatments monthly to keep hair soft and tangle-free.​

IMPORTANT NOTE:

• Never use products containing Keratin or Proteins which will cause extensions to become dry and break off at the ends. Always read the label of your aftercare product.

• DO NOT use silver shampoos and toners as these are known to dry out hair, and might stain your extensions.

• Choose products that focus on moisture and hydration, to keep your extensions healthy.

Should you choose to use products not recommended by Strands of Love, we can not be held liable for any changes to the hair quality and/or colour.

Proper brushing and styling techniques help maintain the quality of your extensions.​

Brushing: Make sure the bonds at the scalp are completely dry before brushing to prevent slipping op your extensions. Use a soft-bristle brush or a loop brush designed for extensions. Brush gently from the ends upward, holding the hair at the roots to prevent tension on the bonds, clips, tapes or micro rings.

Blow-drying: Always hold the hair dryer in a downwards position to help smooth the cuticles of the hair.

When using heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature below 180°C to prevent damage.​

Dry, split or brittle ends are the cause of excessive heat on the ends.

Hair extensions is not a wash-and-go product, therefor styling your extensions will give you a sleek, finished and smooth end result.

Your extensions can be worn as a sleek and straight, loose waves or bouncy curl look.

Advanced Steam Technology for Healthier Hair and Extensions

The SteamPlus is a revolutionary styling tool designed to straighten and smooth hair efficiently while minimizing damage.

(Only straighten dry hair - never use any heat on wet or damp hair).

Unlike traditional flat irons, SteamPlus utilizes continuous steam to infuse moisture deep into the hair shaft, resulting in sleek, glossy locks with enhanced health and vitality.

♡ Moisture Infusion: Steam technology penetrates the hair core, locking in moisture and repairing the cuticle, which is essential for maintaining the softness and shine of both natural hair and extensions.

♡ Frizz Reduction: Continuous steam helps to reduce frizz and dryness, leaving hair smooth and manageable.

♡ Gentle Styling: Suitable for daily use, the SteamPlus iron minimizes heat damage, making it ideal for sensitive or chemically treated hair.

♡ Versatility: Perfect for creating a variety of styles, from straight looks to glamorous waves, ensuring your extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair.

For optimal results and to protect your hair and extensions, we recommend using the Perfect Me, EIMI BB Lotion Heat Protector in conjunction with the SteamPlus iron.

Invest in the SteamPlus Professional Steam Iron to maintain the integrity and appearance of your hair and extensions. 

Brushing: Brush your hair twice a day by using a soft-bristle brush or a loop brush designed for extensions. Brush gently from the ends upward, holding the hair at the roots to prevent tension on your follicles and the bonds attached. Always brush gently and with care to prevent any damage and breakage.

Brushing in between and underneath your extension bonds are very important to prevent knotting against the scalp.

Styling Tools: When using heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature below 180°C to prevent damage.​

Proper sleeping routines help maintain the quality of your extensions.​

Before bedtime: Brush your hair from root to tip. Make sure you brush at the roots and between all your extensions to prevent any knots from forming.

Sleeping: Tie your hair in a bun or loose braid before sleeping to prevent tangling and friction. 

Tuck the ends away securely to avoid breakage and shortening of your extensions' ends.

After a wash or swim: Never sleep with wet hair. Doing so will result in extreme matting/knotting. Sleeping with wet hair will also cause your tapes or bonds to come loose, slip or slide out.

Sleeping tips: Sleep on a silk or satin pillow case to protect your hair from friction and breakage. Sleeping with a silk or satin bonnet will also help your hair stay smooth for longer.

If you do like your extensions to be colour, please follow the following guidelines:

Cutting your extensions is a vital part of ensuring that your extensions blend in perfectly with your own natural hair.

Always make sure only a professional cuts your extensions.

Here are a few professional tips:

Cut Extensions After They're Installed: Always cut hair extensions after they’ve been applied to ensure they blend perfectly with the natural hair.

Cutting before application can lead to uneven or unnatural layering once they're in place.

Make sure you and your stylist have agreed to your desired length before cutting.

Dry Cut for Accuracy: Extensions behave differently when wet. Cutting them while dry gives a more accurate picture of how the hair will fall and move.

Style the hair first (straight) to see its final shape before trimming.

Use Point-Cutting for a Natural Finish: Rather than cutting blunt ends, use point-cutting (snipping into the hair vertically).

This technique softens the line and helps the extensions blend better with natural hair.

Layer Strategically: Layering is key to making extensions look natural, especially with volume-adding methods like tape-ins or wefts.

Start with soft, face-framing layers and blend downwards to avoid a noticeable disconnect between your hair and the extensions.

Blend the Ends: The biggest giveaway of extensions is a harsh line where the natural hair ends and extensions begin.

Use thinning shears to blend the ends into the natural hair and break up any blunt lines.

Trim Regularly: Like natural hair, extensions benefit from occasional trims to keep the ends looking healthy and polished.

Every 6–8 weeks is ideal for long-term wearers.

Use a Mirror: (Clip-ins) Always ask your stylist to help with the cutting of your clip-ins and avoid doing it yourself. Work section by section and make sure that you are happy with the placement of your clip-ins before cutting.

Keep the Natural Hair in Mind: Extensions should support and enhance the shape of your natural haircut—not replace it.

Blend carefully so your own layers and texture flow into the extension hair.

Please keep in mind that Strands of Love is not liable or accountable for any cutting done by a stylist or professional (third party).

When you do decide to swim with your extensions it's important to take precautions to protect your extensions from damage caused by chlorine, saltwater, and sun exposure.

Braid or Tie Up Your Hair: Secure your hair in a loose braid, ponytail, or bun before swimming to minimize tangling and exposure.

Avoid tight hairstyles that may put tension on bonds or tapes when wet.

Use a Leave-In Conditioner and Hair Oil: Apply a leave-in conditioner and a light layer of protective hair oil before getting in the water.

This acts as a barrier, reducing absorption of chlorine or saltwater.

Avoid Full Submersion When Possible: Try to keep your hair above water, especially if wearing extensions like tapes, wefts, keratin bonds, or micro rings.

Clip-ins should be removed before swimming entirely.

Rinse Hair Immediately After Swimming: As soon as you’re out of the pool or ocean, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean, fresh water to remove salt or chlorine. This prevents buildup that can dry out the extensions and weaken bonds.

Use a Gentle, Moisturizing Shampoo: After swimming, wash your hair with a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo followed by a hydrating conditioner or mask.

Focus on mid-lengths and ends—avoid scrubbing near the roots if you have bonded extensions.

Never Brush Wet Hair Aggressively: Towel-dry gently (pat, don’t rub), and use a wide-tooth comb or extension-friendly brush starting from the ends upward.

Avoid pulling or tugging near the bonds or tapes.

Limit Exposure to Chlorine and Saltwater: Frequent swimming can shorten the lifespan of your extensions. If you're a regular swimmer, consider clip-in extensions you can remove beforehand.

Sunscreen and self tan: Be cautious when applying sunscreen near your hair, especially products containing avobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane). This common UV filter can cause light-coloured extensions—particularly blondes and ash tones—to turn orange or pink upon contact.

Choose mineral-based sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) instead of chemical ones, especially when applying near your face, neck, or shoulders.

After applying sunscreen, wash your hands thoroughly before touching your hair or running your fingers through it.

Avoid spray sunscreens near your head or back if your hair will be down.

Please note that self tan can stain your extensions.

🌟 Pro Tip: Deep condition your hair at least once a week during summer or beach holidays to counteract the drying effects of sun, salt, and pool chemicals.

There are several common reasons why extensions like tape-ins and keratin tip (bonded) extensions can come loose or fall out prematurely:

Product Buildup or Oil at the Roots: Natural oils, conditioners, or hair products near the scalp can break down the adhesive or keratin bond.

Tape tabs and keratin bonds need a clean, oil-free surface to stick or fuse properly.

Improper Application: If extensions are applied too close to the scalp, with too little natural hair, or without proper heat/fusion time (for keratin), they may not hold securely. Poor sectioning or tension during application also affects bond longevity.

Washing Too Soon After Application: Washing your hair within 24–48 hours after installation can weaken the adhesive or keratin before it has fully set.

Using the Wrong Hair Products: Sulfate-based shampoos, silicone-heavy conditioners, and alcohol-based styling sprays can degrade the bonds or adhesives.

Even some dry shampoos can cause loosening over time. 

Never use conditioners, treatment s or oil directly on your tape or keratin bonds.

Excessive Sweating or Heat Near Bonds: High heat from styling tools, saunas, or workouts (sweat) can soften the keratin or compromise the adhesive seal on tapes. Always dry your extensions at the root, after a sauna or work-out.

Brushing or Tugging at the Roots: Aggressive brushing or pulling can physically loosen the bonds or tear the extension out along with your own hair.

Clarify Before Installation: Always wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo before applying extensions to remove oil, product buildup, and residue.

Do not use conditioner, sprays or oils on the roots before installation.

Wait at Least 48 Hours to Wash: Give the bonds or tapes time to fully cure and adhere before your first wash or heavy styling.

Use Extension-Safe Hair Products: Stick to sulfate-free, alcohol-free, and oil-free shampoos and conditioners.

Avoid applying conditioner or oils directly to the scalp or near the roots: Focus only on mid-lengths and ends.

Wash Gently, Roots to Ends: Gently cleanse in a downward motion. Never scrub or rough up the bonds/tapes.

Avoid applying product directly over the bond area.

Dry the Bonds Immediately: After washing, gently towel dry and blow-dry the roots and bond area first to prevent moisture from weakening the hold.

Brush with Care: Use a loop brush or soft bristle brush, starting at the ends and working up while supporting the roots with your hand.

Never brush wet hair aggressively.

Avoid Heavy Sweating & Heat on Bonds: If exercising regularly, tie your hair up loosely and wash soon after to remove sweat buildup.

When styling: Avoid direct heat (e.g., flat irons or curling wands) on the bonds or tapes.

Reminder: Some bond loss over time is normal. However, consistent slippage or fallout may indicate improper care, unsuitable products, or a need to revisit your stylist for a reassessment.

Some shedding is normal, excessive shedding can be prevented with the right care. Below is a professional explanation of why tape-ins, keratin bonds, and wefts might shed, along with practical tips to minimize it.

Natural Wear Over Time: All hair extensions (especially those made from 100% Remy human hair) will shed slightly over time—just like your natural hair.

Shedding becomes more noticeable toward the end of the extension's life span, especially with frequent washing and heat styling.

Brushing Too Harshly or Incorrectly: Brushing extensions aggressively can pull strands from the weft, bond, or tape tab, increasing shedding.

Never brush a wet bond. The weft stitching swell when wet, and brushing the wet weft can cause the hair to pull up or out. Wet tapes and bonds are soft therfore brushing the bonds can cause the bonding to weaken which will result in premature shedding.

Excessive Washing or Overuse of Styling Tools: Over-washing, daily heat styling, or using harsh products weakens the bond or adhesive and dries out the hair, making it more prone to shedding.

Never keep your extensions wet for long periods of time, and the bond will weaken and start to shed. Always dry your roots properly.

Chemical Treatments (Bleaching/Colouring): Colouring, toning, or especially bleaching extensions can cause cuticle damage, weakening the hair structure and increasing breakage and shedding.

Never use non-recommended removers when removing extensions (oils, alcohol or harsh chemicals)

Improper Washing Techniques: Washing your hair upside down, tangling it, or rubbing it harshly at the scalp can cause hair to loosen and shed from the attachments.

Poor Product Choices: Using shampoos with sulfates, alcohols, or heavy silicones can dry out the extension hair or break down adhesives and bonds, leading to shedding.

Installation: When tapes are installed and heat is used on the tape bond, make sure the iron is not higher than 160 degrees and only pressed on the tape for no more than 2 seconds. High heat on the tape bond will cause the tape bond to go hard causing small cracks that will lead to premature shedding. 

When removing the old tape glue when doing tape maintenance, make sure the tape bond is dry before pulling the tape glue off. Wet tape is elastic and can stretch to the point where the tape can snap or develop small cracks.

When installing keratin bonds, ensure that enough glue is applied to the bond and the correct amount of hair is used.

Use the Right Products: Choose sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoos and conditioners like SOL Professional, designed for Remy human hair.

Avoid products with alcohol, keratin or protein, which can cause the hair to become brittle. 

Keratin will cause your extensions to start breaking off at the ends which will shorten the length of your extensions rapidly.

Deep Condition Regularly: Use a hydrating mask or deep conditioner weekly to nourish and strengthen the strands.

Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, not the bonds or tape areas.

Wash with Care: Always wash in a downward motion to prevent tangling and stress on the weft or bond.

Never bunch, twist, or scrub the hair.

Dry Bonds and Wefts Thoroughly: Letting the bonds or tapes sit wet for long periods can weaken the glue or stitching, contributing to shedding.

Always dry the roots and attachments first after washing.

Brush Gently and Properly: Use a soft-bristle or loop brush made for extensions.

Start from the ends and work up slowly, holding the hair above the bond or weft to avoid tension.

Avoid Sleeping with Wet Hair: Sleeping with wet hair can cause matting and unnecessary stress on the extension wefts or bonds.

Always dry your hair thoroughly and loosely braid or pin up in a loose bun before bed.

Minimize Chemical Processing: Avoid bleach and use only semi-permanent or demi-permanent hair colour if absolutely necessary.

Always consult a professional before coloring extensions. Avoid any straightening or anti-frizz treatments, especially if it contains keratin.

Secure Wefts Properly: If using sewn-in wefts, make sure they are installed with enough tension and anchored securely to your natural hair.

Loose stitching can lead to hair pulling out from the weft base. 

When cutting a weft's stitching, seal the cutting points with glue to prevent shedding.

Normal: A few strands come out when brushing or washing.

Excessive: Clumps or noticeable thinning of the extensions over a short period—this may require replacement or professional assessment.