Caring for hair extensions requires attentiveness, consistency, and the proper choice of tools. One of the key elements of this care is the correct brush for hair extensions. It helps prevent tangling, maintain a neat appearance, and extend the wear time of the extensions. A common issue with hair extensions comes from incorrect brushing. Many clients avoid brushing the root area because they think the extensions will fall out, but this is a major misconception. When the roots are not brushed, the hair starts to tangle, which negatively affects your natural hair. This is why it is essential that your hairstylist explains how to choose the right brush and how to properly brush your hair extensions.

Which brush is suitable for hair extensions?

The first thing to understand: an old brush almost always becomes unsuitable. Metal tools and hard plastic brushes are strictly prohibited for hair extensions  — they scratch the capsules, can damage them, weaken the attachment, and  cause shedding. Massage brushes with beads on the tips are also dangerous: these beads catch the bonds and tear the hair.

In the professional hair extension care industry, there are not dozens of specialized tools. For extensions, it is best to choose a brush with densely arranged bristles. Such brushes usually have a dual-level design: the firmer bristles gently detangle, while the softer ones smooth the hair.

When choosing a brush, make sure it has the following features:

• soft plastic bristles without beads on the ends;
• no metal elements;
• a flexible base that glides through the hair without damaging the attachment points.

Brushes with beads, metal bristles and hard blow-drying brushes are strictly prohibited. They catch the capsules, pull natural hair, damage keratin, and may lead to premature loss of the extensions.

Among the professional brands that produce suitable brushes, specialists often highlight:

1. Tangle Teezer. These brushes have soft bristles, glide perfectly when combing, and do not cling to the capsules.
2. Olivia Garden. Choose models with soft bristles and comfortable separation of strands.
3. I Love My Hair “Shiny Brush”. This is a brush with a flexible base, suitable for daily care.
4. Balmain. A premium line of brushes with soft combined bristles that gently detangle and smooth hair.

These options work well for all types of hair extensions and are safe when used correctly.

How to avoid tangling: care rules

The main cause of tangling is insufficient care or improper brushing technique. To keep the hair smooth and well-groomed, it is important to follow several rules. Proper care includes:

• brushing the hair 3-4 times a day, paying special attention to the area above capsules, tapes, or wefts;
• using the brush only on dry hair — wet hair is more vulnerable and can be easily damaged;
• starting from the ends and gradually moving upward while supporting the hair at the roots;
• dividing the hair into sections for better control and accuracy;
• avoiding sudden movements that may lead to the hair being pulled out.

It is essential to brush the root area — directly above the bonds, tapes, or wefts — as this prevents tangling and helps maintain the longevity of the extensions. In keratin-bond extensions, the hair should be divided into sections so the brush can gently reach the area where the bonds are placed. Proper brushing does not damage the natural hair or compromise the bonds; the attachments remain secure when handled correctly. However, neglecting this step may lead to tangling at the roots and the formation of tight mats that are difficult to remove.

If a blow-dry brush is used at home or in a salon, the stylist must hold the hair at the roots, but after styling it is still necessary to brush the area above the capsules with a specialized brush. This prevents the formation of “brushes” – clusters of naturally shed hairs that remain in the attachment points.

Why is the work of the stylist so important?

Even the perfect brush will not solve the problem if the extension technique was performed incorrectly. Hair can tangle more frequently when extension techniques are not applied correctly.

Quality extensions are the foundation of successful wear. Hair Extension Salon «WOW HAIR»  in Nice, founded by Alina Leshchynska, is one of the leading studios on the French Riviera specializing in premium hair extensions. With over 20 years of experience, a professional degree, and numerous industry awards, Alina has developed advanced techniques that allow clients to wear extensions for months without tangling. Our expert team ensures flawless, long-lasting results, and clients visit us from across the French Riviera, including Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.

After the procedure, the client receives a detailed consultation where the correct brushing technique and the most suitable brush options are explained. In our salon, clients can also purchase professional brushes for hair extensions, with our stylists providing personalized recommendations.