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Top 5 Best Shampoos for Extensions

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedJuly 31, 2024

Hair extensions are a popular way to getting long hair without waiting for growth. However, hair extensions’ care can sometimes be quite puzzling especially when it comes to washing them. This can severely harm the extensions meaning that they lose their sheen and bounce after using the wrong shampoo. This is why washing one’s hair with a shampoo made for the extensions is recommended.

We devoted a significant amount of time trying and comparing differents shampoos with a view to finding the most suitable one for extensions. In the subsequent sections, we will reveal our ranking of the best choices and describe why they are the best products for extension maintenance.

Top 3 Best Shampoos for Extensions

  1. Matrix Length Goals Shampoo
  2. B3 Brazilian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo/Conditioner/Refresh Trio Pack
  3. Matrix Length Goals Conditioner For Extensions

We know the value of proper care and longevity of the hair extension that you wear. This is why we decided to take our time and do a roundup of the top shampoos that you can use in caring for your extensions. Among them, not only the care products that can clean and nourish the extensions’ hair, but also the products that can protect the extensions and prolong their life span will be on the list.


Matrix Length Goals Shampoo

Editor's Choice

Matrix Length Goals Shampoo

Matrix Length Goals Shampoo did not disappoint – it preserves hair extensions’ brightness, prevents tangling, and least of all, keeps hair extensions from shedding. The indeed it is a sulfate free shampoo and so it is safe but the lemon scent can be overpowering for some.

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If you are in need of a shampoo that could effectively maximize the color protection and bring back the shine of the hair extensions, then Matrix Length Goals shampoo could be suitable for you.

Pros

  • Sulfate free solution does not harm hair extensions and wigs.
  • The shampoo is good at smoothing and detangling hair.
  • The smell of citrus is non-vaning and definitely has an uplifting and calming effect.

Cons

  • The shampoo is a bit expensive
  • The shampoo may not be ideal for individuals with extremely damaged hair

We have been for a few weeks now using Matrix Length Goals Shampoo and it has proved to help retain the color of the hair extensions. The product possesses the non-sulfate type of formulation, which does not prove as detrimental to the tresses of our extensions as it sheds and tangles them. In addition, the shampoo does lots of good to our hair because it helps in managing it well since it is smoothening and a detangler at the same time.

The shampoo is perfumed and the perfume smell is quite strong, this goes well with people who enjoy their perfume smells but not so good for those who like gentle smells. However, which we use personally, it has splendid citrus aroma, which stays for a rather long time.

In summary, we recommend the Matrix Length Goals Shampoo for anyone in the market for a sulfate-free shampoo that will guarantee to safeguard the color intensity and bring back the luster of the extension hair. Despite of the fact that the brand is setting a much higher price for its shampoo compared to the other brands in the market, it will always stamp its divine quality and efficacy of the product.


B3 Brazilian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo/Conditioner/Refresh Trio Pack

B3 Brazilian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo/Conditioner/Refresh Trio Pack

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If you need a good shampoo for the hair extensions, it is recommended to turn to the B3 Brazilian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo/Conditioner/Refresh Trio Pack.

Pros

  • The shampoo and conditioner presented are both sulfate-free and silicone-free, which helps as not to damage your extensions, thus lasting longer.
  • All ingredients of the shampoo do not remove the natural sebum of the hair.
  • The refresh spray is useful when you do not have time to wash your extensions, it keeps them fresh and tamed.

Cons

  • It may not be the most budget-friendly option for everyone
  • The set has a slightly strong scent

Overall, the B3 Brazilian Bondbuilder Extension Shampoo/Conditioner/Refresh Trio Pack is very recommended for those who are searching for the best, mild and safe shampoo for hair extensions. Since the product does not contain sulfates and silicone, it is perfect for those who would love to keep their extensions in the best condition.

The shampoo and conditioner help to cleanse and nourishes the extension whereas the refresh spray assistance in maintaining the look of fresh extension. So, this multiplying pack is one of the best choices if you are looking for a good shampoo for your extension.


Matrix Length Goals Conditioner For Extensions

Matrix Length Goals Conditioner For Extensions

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If you are in search of a conditioner that will embrace your extension hair by making it smoother, softer and touchable explicitly within one wash, then Matrix Length Goals Conditioner For Extension is highly recommended.

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • It makes hair look and feel silky
  • Softens and nourishes hair

Cons

  • Some people might not like the smell
  • A bit expensive

We've been using this conditioner for a while now, and we can bet that it is one of the best products out there for extension. The conditioner provides a sophisticated technology of a mask, that delivers incredible slip and manageable hair touch and detangling. It is ideal for colored hair because this product has no paraben in the formulation.

The Matrix Length Goals Conditioner For Extensions also works to make the hair moist as well as moisturized. It has been especially formulated for hair extension and wigs and this is ideal for persons who constantly use extensions. This conditioner will make the appearance of you extensions resemble that of your natural hair and feel so nice.

However, some people may not like the smell of the conditioner adding that; Yes it has a strong perfume smell that may cause some people to consider it too strong. Also, it may be noted that the price of the product is a bit high compared to other conditioners.


Mermaid Extension Hair Care Shampoo & Conditioner Starter Combo

Mermaid Extension Hair Care Shampoo & Conditioner Starter Combo

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For a gentle and effective shampoo and conditioner combo to maintain your hair extensions, count on the Mermaid Extension Hair Care Shampoo & Conditioner Starter Combo.

Pros

  • The intensive conditioning reduces hair damage and as a result is very suitable for giving hair a shiny silky feel.
  • The chemical free shampoo does not contain sulfate and paraben which are usually harsh on the hair extensions and causes tangles and split ends.
  • The natural extracts assist in conditioning your hair and therefore you achieve healthy looking hair.

Cons

  • The combo is a bit expensive.
  • The scent might not be to everyone's liking.

The Mermaid Extension Hair Care Shampoo & Conditioner Starter Combo is designed for those that have colored hair and it helps effectively and gently moisturize hair. It washes the hair and clears off any dirt or other residues to enhance the feeling of the hair. It also has a role of protecting and preserving the hair color and extensions thus leading to longer hair lasting solutions. Besides, it gives volume and strength to your hair and makes you have beautiful healthy hair.

The conditioner is made with essential nutrients to nourish the hair strands from the roots all the way to the tips of the hair minimizing frizzy hair and fly away hair. It suppose to be good for all hair types and when used it makes hair elastic and most importantly healthy looking. The bottle is also reusable with facilites for recycling besides being fashioned from eco-friendly materials available in the market.

All in all, the Mermaid Extension Hair Care Shampoo & Conditioner Starter Combo is good for those who want to have a tender and fast acting product which does not contain chemical for extension hair.


ILES FORMULA PARIS NEW YORK

ILES FORMULA PARIS NEW YORK

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ILES FORMULA PARIS NEW YORK shampoo is best for those who are seeking a professional shampoo for both natural and hair extension that does not cause harm to the scalp.

Pros

  • It is ideal for people who have sensitive scalps
  • This shampoo changes the state of your hair
  • It is rich in antioxidants due to which it helps in increasing hair pliability so as to avoid breakage.

Cons

  • This shampoo is a bit pricey
  • It may not work for everyone

We recommend ILES FORMULA PARIS NEW YORK for those looking for a high-quality, sulfate-free shampoo that is gentle on hair extensions. This product gives your hair the look and feel of a salon styled hair, and you will notice a difference in your hair immediately after application.

The shampoo contains many efficient and anti-oxidized ingredients in it such as Vitamin B5 that enhances hair flexibility to reduce breakage. It is also infused with the fragrance of allergen-free White Tea Flower, thus suitable for those with sensitive head- skin.

All in all, ILES FORMULA PARIS NEW YORK is a wonderful recommendation for all the people who want to purchase a premium quality shampoo to care for their extensions. In as much as it is relatively expensive, the effects are beautiful and your hair will be so enthralling once you use this product.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best shampoo for extensions, there are some essential aspects to consider. We've put together a list of main factors to look for:

Ingredients

The ingredients in your shampoo play a big role on the health of your extensions. In recommending hair care products the following features should be considered: the products should be sulfate-free, paraben-free and devoid of other harsh chemicals that harm the hair. Rather, get shampoas that are enriched with natural products such as coconut oil, argan oil and tea tree oil which are good in enhancing the health of your extensions.

pH Balance

Extensions need to be in good and healthy condition and this can only be possible if they are put under conditions, which keep them strong in terms of physical and even chemical balance that is the pH level. Choose shampoas that are sulphate free as well as those that are gentle and recommended to be used on extensions.

Moisturizing Properties

Since, extensions hair are usually dry, it is very important to wash hair with a shampoo that would help in moisturizing the extension hair. Choose products with such substances as glycerin or hyaluronic acid – with their help, the hair is easy to moisturize.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which sulfate-free shampoos are recommended for maintaining hair extensions?

Sulfate-free shampoos are gentle to the hair drainage and does not leave the hair extensions naked. The sulfate-free shampoos for extensions include; OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Shampoo, Pureology Hydrate Shampoo, SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo.

What are the top drugstore shampoos suitable for hair extensions?

Low-cost shampoos available in drug stores are quite recommended for people who do not want to spend a lot of money. The best shampoos that are recommended to be purchased from drug stores for hair extension include the L’oreal Paris elvive dream lengths restoring shampoo, Pantene pro-v blends rose water shampoo, and garnier fructis grow strong fortifying shampoo.

How does professional shampoo for extensions differ from regular shampoo?

Professional shampoos for extensions are mild and can penetrate through the hair extension to clean it. They are normally without sulfates and include components that assist in conditioning and having the extensions. They also assist in avoiding tangles and forming of matt of the extensions.

Are there specific shampoos designed for tape-in hair extensions?

Yes, there are shampoos for hair extensions especially for tape-in extensions so they last longer, the TapHair brand is good. These shampoos are normally mild and devoid of sulfate compounds since they assist in avoiding the detachment or loosening of the employed tapes. Here are some of the top shampoos that you can use with the tape-in extensions; Pureology Strength Cure Shampoo, R+Co Atlantis Moisturizing Shampoo.

What ingredients should be avoided in shampoos when caring for hair extensions?

When caring for hair extensions, it is important to avoid using shampoos with sulfates, parabens, alcohol, among other harsh ingredients. Some of these items prove useful in eliminating the hair’s natural oils and can be damaging to the extensions. As such, one should not also use those shampoas with heavy oils, silicones, as they will add some extra weight to the extensions.

Can hand-tied extensions be washed with regular shampoos or do they require special products?

If you are not particular with your hair type, hand-tied extensions take a lot of care and it is recommended to use extension friendly shampoos. The normal shampoos are damaging to the extensions since you will need to wash them frequently, at least, once a week. The best shampoo to use on hand tied extensions include but not limited to Hair Shop’s pearl shampoo and Aqua hair Extension shampoo.

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