Hair Gathers Up

A woman who has problems with her hair extensions
Photo: Shutterstock
Q: I'm hoping you can help me. I was told that I bought very good hair extensions, but my problem is that I can't wear my hair down because it keeps gathering up on me and looking like a rat's nest. I comb it out constantly, so I end up wearing it in a ponytail. But even the ponytail mats up.
 
I'm using good products recommended by the store where I bought the extensions, which are supposedly made specifically for extensions. Do you have any suggestions?
 
A: Being honest, without knowing exactly what kind of hair extensions you have had put into your hair (both the type of extensions and the brand), I cannot possibly make any judgment as to the actual level of quality of these materials.
 
I will simply have to rely on the estimation you have presented and assume that you are quoting someone who does have professional experience with hair extensions and was not responsible for selling you the extensions or installing them.
 
I also need to know what type of extension method was used for your hair. Are your extensions applied in wefts, or are they individual strands? Are they applied using the track and sew method, bonded with an adhesive, micro-rings, tape-ins, or are they fusion extensions?
 
There is also the issue of exactly which products you are using. Whether they are labeled "for hair extensions" or not is secondary to knowing their specific ingredients. Sulfates, heavy protein treatments, or alcohol-heavy products can dry out extension hair and cause severe matting very quickly.
 
However, beyond the specific products and installation method, there are three primary technical reasons why hair gathers up into a "rat's nest" that you should consider:
 
• Cuticle Misalignment: Even if a salon or store claims hair is high quality, if the hair isn't genuine Remy hair (where all cuticles face the same root-to-tip direction), the microscopic scales on the hair shafts face opposite ways. Friction from your shoulders, back, or clothing causes these scales to catch on each other like Velcro, quickly forming a matted web - especially at the nape of the neck.
 
• Brushing Technique & Tools: Constant combing with a standard fine-tooth comb or standard bristle brush can actually worsen matting by tearing the hair shaft and creating rough friction points. Extension hair requires a specialized brush, starting gently at the ends and working your way up toward the roots.
 
• Friction Habits: Extensions lack natural scalp oils to keep them hydrated and slick, making them far more sensitive to friction. Sleeping on cotton pillowcases, going to bed with even slightly damp hair, or failing to braid the hair loosely before sleep will cause severe matting.
 
If you can find out the installation method, the exact products you are using, and whether the hair was guaranteed to be 100% Remy human hair, I can give you a much more concrete solution.
 
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See also:
 
Hair extensions
 
How to take care of hair extensions
 
What are the best hair extensions to get?