Hair Extension Maintenance 101: How Often To Move Up

Regular maintenance keeps extensions comfortable, secure, and beautiful. Here’s a realistic schedule for tape-ins, hand-tied/sewn rows, and keratin bonds, plus signs you’re overdue and everyday habits that extend wear.

Tape-Ins: Plan on 6–8 Weeks

Tape-ins sit flat and blend easily, but they ride down with natural growth.

Why This Timing Works

At 6–8 weeks, adhesive is still cooperative and sections haven’t drifted far from the scalp. Waiting longer raises the chance of tangling and uneven tension.

What a Move-Up Includes

We remove, clarify, rebalance sections, replace adhesive, and reinstall for even distribution and comfort.

Hand-Tied/Sewn Rows: Typically 6–9 Weeks

Rows grow down and away from the scalp and should be re-tensioned to keep weight balanced.

Fine vs Medium/Thick Hair

Finer hair often sits closer to 6–7 weeks, while medium/thick hair can reach 8–9 with proper home care.

What a Maintenance Visit Looks Like

We check bead integrity, re-tension or re-seat the row, do a quick dusting if needed, and refresh your wave pattern.

Keratin Bonds: Replace Every 3–5 Months

Individual bonds are not typically “moved up.” They’re removed and replaced on a customized timeline.

Longevity Factors

Bond size, brush discipline, heat exposure, and growth rate all influence your cycle. Your stylist sets a target and adjusts after your first round.

Signs You’re Overdue

Catch small warnings before they turn into repairs.

Slippage or Spinning

A piece that twists easily or drops below the safe zone needs attention.

Tangling Near Attachment Points

Matting at the root area is a late sign. Book before it becomes a removal project.

Uneven Weight or Tenderness

If styling feels off or tender, you’re likely past due for redistributing weight.

Daily Habits That Extend Wear

Brushing and Section Support

Brush gently from ends to roots while supporting the attachment. Keep the scalp area tangle-free.

Wash Rhythm and Products

Use extension-safe formulas, avoid heavy oils on attachments, and follow the wash cadence your stylist recommends.

Sleep, Gym, and Swim

Silk pillowcase, loose braids at night, low supported ponytails for workouts, and quick post-swim rinses help everything stay smooth.

Our Maintenance Appointment Flow

Check-In and Scalp Scan

We review comfort, growth, and any lifestyle changes since your last visit.

Reset and Refresh

Removal or re-tension, clarifying where needed, reinstall, blend, and a quick finishing style. Color refresh can be coordinated

Stay On Schedule: Book Your Maintenance

Keep your extensions comfortable and camera-ready. Book your next move-up or replacement now.

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