If you’re investing in hair extensions, knowing their expected lifespan and understanding how to maximise their longevity is crucial. Whether you wear extensions to add fullness, create stunning length, or experiment with new looks, durability matters—especially in London’s dynamic climate. With expert techniques and personalised application, the company Ivana Farisei offers solutions at the hair extension salon in London ivanafarisei.co.uk tailored to deliver lasting results and natural beauty. But how long do hair extensions actually last, and what can you do to get the most out of your investment?
Factors That Determine the Lifespan of Hair Extensions in London

Londoners understand the importance of premium quality, especially when it comes to hair extensions. The lifespan of extensions depends on a combination of technical, environmental, and personal factors. First, the type of hair—Remy, virgin, or synthetic—plays a pivotal role. Remy and virgin human hair, ethically sourced and minimally processed, typically last longer than synthetic options, offering both resilience and a seamless blend with natural hair.
Attachment methods matter too. Tape-ins, keratin bonds, micro rings, and sew-ins all deliver unique benefits, but each comes with specific maintenance needs. Daily wear and tear, exposure to city pollution, and hard London water can strip hair of moisture, reducing shine and causing bonds to slip or mat. The skill of the stylist is equally essential; proper application minimises stress on your natural hair and helps extensions stay secure for longer.
Personal lifestyle is another influential factor. Frequent heat styling, swimming, and high-intensity fitness routines can all shorten the lifespan of extensions. Skipping regular salon maintenance or using aggressive products can also lead to tangling and premature shedding.
Routine care and a gentle touch are the cornerstones of prolonging the life of extensions. By choosing reputable salons with certified specialists, you’ll ensure your extensions are applied with meticulous attention to detail, tailored to your hair type, and suited for daily London life.
Daily Maintenance and Best Practices for Prolonging Hair Extensions
Meticulous home care has a significant impact on how long your hair extensions will last. Proper washing, drying, and styling methods can dramatically reduce damage and extend the time between professional refits. Understanding the specific needs of your extension type—keratin bonds, tapes, micro rings, or clip-ins—is vital to adopting tailored maintenance routines.
Washing Techniques for Hair Extensions
Use a sulfate-free, gentle shampoo and avoid washing extensions every day. Overwashing can dry out both the attachments and the hair itself. Always brush your hair before washing to prevent tangles, and use a downward, massaging motion when applying shampoo. Avoid scrubbing the roots or tugging at the bonds as this can loosen the attachments. After rinsing, apply a lightweight conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, keeping clear of the roots to prevent slippage.
Drying and Styling Without Damage
Never sleep with wet extensions. Pat hair with a soft towel rather than rubbing, and use a hairdryer on a cool or medium setting, directing airflow downwards to smooth the cuticle. Limit heat styling to extend the lifespan of your extensions, and always use a heat protectant spray. If your style calls for curls or waves, opt for low-temperature tools and avoid excessive manipulation.
Protecting Hair Extensions Overnight
Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and tangling at night. For longer sets, loosely braid your hair or tie it in a low ponytail before bed to prevent matting and breakage. Periodically separating the bonds with your fingers can help keep the attachments neat.
Keeping Extensions Looking Fresh in London
Environmental factors in London—humidity, rain, and urban pollutants—can quickly dull the shine of both natural hair and extensions. Wearing a hat or scarf during harsh weather, and using a leave-in conditioner spray, can help maintain softness and shine. Scheduling regular trims, about every 6–8 weeks, will keep split ends at bay and refresh the look of your extensions.
For those seeking short-term styling solutions, the company Ivana Farisei offers a wide range of short hair extensions providing versatility and easy management, especially for those with busy lifestyles or shorter natural hair lengths.

Choosing the Ideal Hair Extension Type for Your Lifestyle and Hair Goals
Londoners often balance work, style, and social life, so choosing the right type of hair extensions is essential. The longevity and suitability of extensions depend on their method of application, your hair’s natural texture, and your daily habits.
- Clip-in Extensions: Suitable for occasional wear. Last 6–12 months with proper care, as they’re removed nightly. Not ideal for permanent changes but perfect for quick style updates.
- Tape-in Extensions: Offer a natural look with light weight and minimal visibility. When maintained well, tapes last 6–8 weeks before professional reapplication is needed. The hair itself can be reused multiple times if properly cared for.
- Keratin Bond Extensions: Provide a seamless, long-lasting solution. These can endure up to 3–5 months, making them a favourite among those seeking durability and minimal visibility.
- Micro Ring Extensions: Popular for their ability to avoid heat and glue, these can last up to 3 months before requiring a move-up.
- Sew-in (Weave) Extensions: Favoured by those with coarse or thick hair, they last 6–8 weeks before a refit is needed.
When choosing between these options, consider your lifestyle, commitment to maintenance, and the result you hope to achieve. The company Ivana Farisei offers advanced methods including micro bond extensions ensuring minimal damage and longevity for clients seeking high-quality solutions.
Key Considerations Before Selecting Hair Extensions
- Assess your natural hair texture and strength.
- Estimate how much time you can dedicate to daily and weekly maintenance.
- Consider your activity level and exposure to heat, water, or chemicals.
- Seek a thorough consultation at a reputable salon to tailor the method to your hair.
Selecting the right type ensures not only a more natural appearance but also fewer issues with matting, shedding, and bond slippage.

Professional Refitting and Removal: Extending the Beauty of Your Extensions
Regular professional maintenance is non-negotiable in extending the life of hair extensions. Refits allow stylists to reposition or replace attachments, ensuring your natural hair remains healthy and free from tension. Ignoring regular appointments can result in matting at the roots, tangling, or even breakage of your own hair, ultimately reducing the lifespan of both the extensions and your natural locks.
Experts recommend booking maintenance visits every 6–8 weeks. During these sessions, stylists not only check the integrity of the bonds but also assess the health of the natural hair, trim split ends, and advise on any product adjustments needed as the seasons change. Removing extensions should never be attempted at home; improper removal can cause irreparable damage and unnecessary hair loss.
For those in London, consistent aftercare and expert guidance are the most reliable ways to preserve the look, feel, and health of both extensions and natural hair, keeping your investment truly worthwhile.
Investing in Quality for Lasting Results
Choosing premium hair, the correct extension type, and maintaining a regular aftercare routine are the keys to making your extensions last. Partnering with expert stylists ensures the application and upkeep suit your unique needs and the demands of city life. With the right approach, hair extensions can provide months of radiant, effortless beauty—letting you step out in London with confidence.
Have you found what you’re looking for? If you need more similar topics, come and visit our blog!