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The Best Shampoos For Hair Extensions, According To A Celebrity Hairstylist
Here's how to maintain your waterfall locks for longer.
Anyone who has ever had hair extensions understands that a new 'do requires proper care to maintain both your hair health and the quality of the extensions – whether you've opted for bonded, tape, weave, micro-ring or even a wig. One of the easiest way to do so is by paying attention to your shampoo: in fact, the product you choose to later up with is a crucial consideration.
Why do you need a different shampoo for hair extensions?
'It is super important to wash your hair with a specific shampoo formula if you have extensions in as it will help extend the longevity of the extensions and maintain the overall quality so they look fresh,' says celebrity hairstylist Jay Birmingham, whose clientele includes Khloé Kardashian, Sofia Richie Grainge, and Maya Jama.
The best shampoos for hair extensions
- The pro pick: Jay B Haircare Hydrating Shampoo, £19
- Editor's choice: Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Shampoo, £33
- Best for coloured hair: Color Wow Color Security Shampoo, £15.95
- Best for strengthening: Pureology Hydrate Sheer Shampoo, £23.19
- Best for scent: Hair By Sam McKnight Light Cleanse Shampoo, £28
What should you look for in a shampoo for hair extensions?
While extra dry, natural hair will benefit from rich oils, those with extensions should veer towards ultra-light formulas with gentle hydrators and the absence of sulphates. 'Always use a sulphate-free shampoo, as sulphates can soften the bond or tape and cause the hair to slip,' says Birmingham. Additional glycerin, argan oil and jojoba oil will help restore shine and nourishment without weighing the extensions down.
How to shampoo with hair extensions
Now that you've got the shampoo sorted, it's time to consider how you use it, which is equally as important. 'Be gentle when lathering up and aim to wash your hair in a downward motion to avoid causing any friction (to the extensions),' suggests Birmingham, who also recommends using the same technique when brushing and styling your hair. He prefers using a detangling brush in the shower to prevent any tangles. It will also make the drying process much easier.
Ahead, the best shampoos for hair extensions
Hairstylist Jay Birmingham is well-versed in the world of extensions, which is why his shampoo is formulated to be gentle on both natural and faux manes alike. Argan and avocado provide all the essential fatty acids to maintain healthy strands without damaging extensions and wigs.
Color Wow Color Security Shampoo
Free-from harsh, moisture-stripping ingredients, Color Wow's lightweight formula lifts impurities without compromising on your extensions. It is especially useful for maintaining the vibrancy of your coloured hair, too.
Pureology is a favourite amongst colourist for how gentle yet efficacious the formulas are. Hydrate Sheer provides weightless moisture and is fortified with plant proteins to strengthen your natural hair.
One ELLE UL staffer used this nourishing shampoo on her tape extensions and saw great results. While the general rule is to avoid heavy oils in your haircare, Briogeo's plant oil-infused formula remains light enough to keep your extensions safe while ensuring your natural hair remains glossy and hydrated.
Trust iconic hairstylist Sam McKnight to formulate a shampoo that not only effectively cleanses while replenishing strands with vitamins and amino acids, but it also smells absolutely divine. Think a clean, woody scent that is significantly chicer than the smell of sugary fruits.
For extra fine, curly, and wavy hair, Monday's Smooth range helps to manage any tangles and keeps frizz at bay - all without weighing locks down.
Fun fact: this shampoo was used on entrepreneur and content creator Patricia Bright's wig at the BRITs this year. You can feel the difference immediately in the shower, as the ceramide-infused formula restores a healthy shine and takes care of tangles. The hefty bottle will last you ages, too.
If London's hard water (when water has a high dissolved mineral content) is wrecking havoc on your hair, look to Hello Klean. The brand is best known for its clever shower filter, but don't sleep on this supporting shampoo. In place of sulphates and silicones, you'll find oat protein, clarifying charcoal and lactic acid for hydration.
Medina Azaldin is the beauty editor of ELLE and Harper's Bazaar UK, working across print and digital features. She has more than seven years journalism experience and has previously written for Red and Good Hoousekeeping. When she's not demystifying the latest skincare ingredient, sniffing out the next big perfume trend or uncovering the science behind wellness practices, you'll most likely find her in Hatchards Piccadilly or watching a crime series with her cats. Oh, and she's a competitive cheerleader, too.
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![jodie turner smith new bob met gala new york, new york may 05: jodie turner smith attends the 2025 met gala celebrating superfine: tailoring black style at metropolitan museum of art on may 05, 2025 in new york city. (photo by dimitrios kambouris/getty images for the met museum/vogue)](https://cdn.statically.io/img/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/gettyimages-2213610212-688772f19e73e.jpg?crop=0.500xw:0.750xh;0.257xw,0.0204xh&resize=360:* "Jodie Turner-Smith new bob The 2025 Met Gala Celebrating "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" - Arrivals")
