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what you need to know about after care

Scroll below for instructions after your Perm, Color Service, Extensions or Keratin Smoothing Treatment
Aftercare Instructions for Colored Hair
Color-treated hair requires special attention to maintain its vibrancy, health, and shine. Proper aftercare helps extend the life of your color, keeps your hair moisturized, and minimizes damage. Here’s a guide to help you care for your newly colored hair:
1. Wait Before Washing
  • Wait 48-72 hours before washing your hair after coloring. This gives the hair cuticle time to fully close and locks in the color.
  • If possible, avoid shampooing for as long as you can in the first few days to allow the color to fully set.
2. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo
  • Opt for sulfate-free shampoos. Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause color to fade faster.
  • Look for color-safe shampoos that are specifically formulated for dyed or treated hair. These are usually gentler and help retain your color longer.
3. Deep Condition Regularly
  • Condition after every wash. Color treatments can dry out hair, so use a good moisturizing conditioner to restore moisture and maintain softness.
  • Deep condition weekly. A deep conditioning mask or treatment provides extra hydration and helps keep the hair healthy and nourished. Look for products that are designed for color-treated hair.
4. Avoid Hot Water
  • Wash your hair with lukewarm or cool water rather than hot water, as hot water can open the hair cuticle and cause color to fade more quickly.
5. Limit Heat Styling
  • Reduce the use of heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers. Heat can cause color to fade faster and damage the hair.
  • If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant before styling to minimize damage and color loss.
6. Protect Your Hair from the Sun
  • UV rays can cause color to fade and hair to become dry or brittle. Protect your hair by wearing a hat or using a UV protectant spray designed for hair.
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially in the first few days after coloring.
7. Avoid Chlorine and Salt Water
  • Chlorine in pools and salt water from the ocean can strip color from your hair and make it dry or greenish in hue, especially in lighter shades.
  • If swimming, wear a swim cap or use a protective hair oil or leave-in conditioner to shield your hair.
8. Use Leave-In Treatments
  • Incorporate a leave-in conditioner or serum to keep hair hydrated, protect from environmental factors, and add shine.
  • Look for leave-ins that are designed to protect and maintain color, often containing UV filters or antioxidants.
9. Avoid Excessive Washing
  • Wash your hair less frequently to prevent the color from fading quickly. Try washing your hair no more than 2-3 times per week, depending on your hair type and lifestyle.
  • On non-wash days, you can refresh your hair with a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and keep it looking fresh.
10. Trim Regularly
  • Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to keep your color looking fresh and prevent split ends from making your hair look dull or uneven.
  • Regular trims help prevent damage and ensure your hair remains healthy, which is crucial for maintaining vibrant color.
11. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping
  • Use a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize friction and prevent hair from becoming dry, tangled, or frizzy overnight.
  • Alternatively, you can loosely tie your hair with a soft scrunchie or in a braid to prevent breakage.
12. Touch Up Roots as Needed
  • Schedule regular root touch-ups to keep your color looking consistent and fresh. The timing will depend on your hair’s growth rate and how much your natural color contrasts with the dye.
13. Be Mindful of Products
  • Avoid products with alcohol, parabens, or strong chemicals, as they can damage your color-treated hair and cause dryness. Stick to gentle, nourishing products that are safe for color-treated hair.
By following these aftercare tips, your hair color will stay vibrant, shiny, and healthy for as long as possible!
​Aftercare Instructions for Tape-In Extensions
Here’s the recommended aftercare for Hot Heads Tape-In Extensions:

1. Avoid Washing Immediately
  • Wait 48-72 hours after installation before washing your hair. This waiting period allows the adhesive tape to fully set and bond with your natural hair, ensuring a secure fit.
  • During this time, avoid getting your hair wet, and refrain from activities that might cause sweating or moisture near the scalp.
2. Shampoo and Condition Gently
  • Use sulfate-free shampoos. Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils, weaken the adhesive, and dry out both your natural hair and extensions. Choose a gentle, moisturizing shampoo that is formulated for use with extensions.
  • When washing, avoid direct contact with the tape-in bonds. Focus on massaging the shampoo into the scalp and allow the shampoo to run through the hair. Do not rub or scrub the bonds themselves to prevent loosening.
  • Condition your hair from the mid-lengths to the ends, but avoid applying conditioner directly to the bonds. Over-conditioning at the roots can weaken the adhesive and cause the extensions to slip.
3. Deep Condition Regularly
  • Deep condition your hair and extensions once a week to maintain hydration and softness. Be sure to apply the treatment only to the ends, as applying it near the bonds can interfere with the adhesive’s hold.
  • You can also use a leave-in conditioner for additional moisture, but again, avoid applying it directly to the tape bonds.
4. Drying Your Hair
  • Blot your hair gently with a towel after washing, rather than rubbing, to avoid tangling and frizz.
  • Air dry your hair when possible, but if you must blow-dry, use a low heat setting and direct the airflow away from the tape-in bonds to prevent them from loosening. Excessive heat can also cause damage to both your natural hair and the extensions.
  • Use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying or styling to help maintain the health of your extensions and natural hair.
5. Brush with Care
  • Brush your extensions carefully using a wide-tooth comb or a brush specifically designed for extensions. Start at the tips and work your way up to the roots, gently detangling your hair to avoid pulling on the tape bonds.
  • Be sure to brush regularly to prevent tangling, but avoid pulling too hard, especially at the root area, where the tape-in bonds are located.
  • Use a loop brush or extension-friendly detangling brush to minimize tugging and breakage.
6. Avoid Oil-Based Products Near the Bonds
  • Avoid applying oils, serums, or heavy products directly to the tape-in bonds, as these can break down the adhesive and cause the extensions to slip.
  • If you want shine or frizz control, apply lightweight, water-based products to the ends of your hair, and avoid the root area where the extensions are applied.
7. Limit Heat Styling
  • Minimize the use of heat styling tools (such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers) to prevent heat damage to both the extensions and your natural hair.
  • When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray to safeguard both the extensions and your natural hair.
  • Be careful not to apply heat directly to the tape bonds, as excessive heat can weaken the adhesive and damage the extensions.
8. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping
  • Use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction while you sleep. This will help prevent tangling and frizz, and keep both your natural hair and extensions smooth.
  • Alternatively, braid your hair loosely or tie it in a loose ponytail to prevent tangling while you sleep.
  • Avoid sleeping with your hair tied too tightly, as this can cause tension on the tape-in bonds, leading to discomfort or premature shedding.
9. Avoid Tight Hairstyles
  • Avoid tight ponytails, braids, or buns, as these styles can put tension on the tape-in bonds and cause them to slip or loosen.
  • If you want to tie your hair up, use a soft hair tie or scrunchie and ensure the hairstyle is not too tight or pulling at the roots.
10. Regular Maintenance and Adjustments
  • Visit your stylist every 6-8 weeks for maintenance and reinstallation of your tape-in extensions. Over time, as your natural hair grows, the bonds may need to be adjusted or moved to keep your extensions looking seamless.
  • You may need to reinstall the extensions after a few months, depending on how well you maintain them and how much your natural hair has grown.
11. Be Careful with Chemical Treatments
  • Avoid coloring your hair immediately after getting tape-in extensions. Wait at least 2-3 weeks to allow the adhesive to fully bond with your hair.
  • If you want to color your natural hair, consult with your stylist before doing so. Certain hair dyes can affect the adhesive or damage the extensions. Professional colorists who have experience with extensions should handle any color treatment.
12. Swimming and Chlorine
  • Avoid swimming in chlorine or saltwater for prolonged periods, especially during the first few days after installation. Chlorine and saltwater can break down the adhesive and cause the extensions to slip.
  • If swimming is unavoidable, consider applying a leave-in conditioner or wearing a swim cap to protect your extensions from chlorine and saltwater damage.
13. Removal of Extensions
  • Do not attempt to remove the extensions yourself. Removing tape-in extensions requires a professional who can safely break down the adhesive and prevent damage to your natural hair.
  • Your stylist will use a special adhesive remover to break down the bond and remove the extensions without causing harm to your hair.

By following these aftercare instructions, your Hot Heads Tape-In Extensions will last longer, maintain their natural appearance, and keep your natural hair healthy and strong. Regular care, maintenance, and gentle handling are essential for ensuring your extensions stay in place and looking great.
Aftercare Instructions for K-Tip Extensions
 To keep both your natural hair and the K-tip extensions healthy, here’s a guide on how to care for them:
1. Avoid Washing Immediately
  • Wait 48-72 hours after installation before washing your hair. This allows the keratin bonds to fully harden and bond with your natural hair, ensuring a secure fit.
  • During this time, avoid getting your hair wet or tying it up in tight styles to avoid disturbing the bond.
2. Shampoo with Care
  • Use sulfate-free shampoos. Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils, dry out the keratin bonds, and cause the extensions to slip. Look for gentle, moisturizing shampoos formulated for use with extensions.
  • Apply shampoo gently, avoiding the bonds directly. Focus on your scalp and let the shampoo run down through the hair. Do not rub or scrub the bonds, as this can cause the extensions to loosen.
  • Avoid heavy conditioners near the bonds, as they can cause the keratin to weaken and the extensions to slip. Condition your hair from the mid-lengths to the ends.
3. Conditioning & Moisturizing
  • After shampooing, use a lightweight conditioner that is safe for extensions. Apply the conditioner only to the ends of the hair, not near the bonds. This helps keep the hair soft without compromising the keratin bonds.
  • For dry or damaged hair, you can use a deep conditioning treatment (but avoid the roots and bonds). Hydrating masks or oils applied to the ends can help maintain moisture and prevent frizz.
4. Drying Your Hair
  • Pat your hair dry with a towel, and avoid rubbing it harshly, which can cause tangling or breakage.
  • Air-dry your hair when possible to minimize heat exposure. If you need to blow-dry, use a low heat setting and keep the dryer a few inches away from the bonds to prevent loosening or heat damage.
  • Use a heat protectant before blow-drying, straightening, or curling your extensions to minimize heat damage and keep the extensions looking their best.
5. Avoid Excessive Heat Styling
  • While K-tip extensions can generally handle heat, limit the use of high-heat tools (flat irons, curling irons, etc.). Too much heat can dry out the extensions and cause damage to the bonds.
  • Always use a heat protectant spray when styling your hair with heat tools to prevent damage to the extensions and natural hair.
  • Be sure to avoid applying heat directly on the bonds. Focus on styling the hair below the bond area.
6. Brush Gently
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or loop brush to detangle your extensions. Never pull or tug on the hair, as this can cause stress on both your natural hair and the extensions.
  • When brushing, start at the tips and work your way up to avoid tugging on the bonds. Be especially careful around the roots and bonds.
  • If you have long extensions, brush regularly (especially before bed) to prevent tangling.
7. Avoid Oil-Based Products Near the Bonds
  • Avoid using oily products, such as hair serums or oils, near the bonds. These can cause the keratin to weaken, leading to slipping or loosening of the extensions.
  • If you need shine or frizz control, use lightweight, water-based products that won’t weigh down the hair or affect the bonds.
8. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping
  • Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent tangling. Cotton pillowcases can cause your extensions to become dry and frizzy.
  • If you prefer, loosely braid or tie your hair in a soft scrunchie to prevent tangling and breakage while sleeping.
9. Avoid Tight Hairstyles
  • Avoid tight hairstyles such as high ponytails, buns, or braids that could pull on the bonds. Tension on the bonds can cause them to loosen or cause discomfort to your scalp.
  • If you do tie your hair up, make sure to use a soft hair tie or scrunchie and keep the tension light.
10. Regular Maintenance & Re-Tightening
  • Visit your stylist every 6-8 weeks for maintenance appointments. As your natural hair grows, the bonds may need to be repositioned or re-tightened.
  • Be sure to trim the extensions regularly to maintain their shape and avoid split ends. Ask your stylist to trim carefully around the bonds, so as not to cut them.
11. Protect Your Hair from Sun and Chlorine
  • UV rays can cause color fading and dryness. If you’re spending extended time in the sun, consider using a UV protectant spray for hair or wear a hat to protect your extensions.
  • Avoid swimming in chlorine or salt water immediately after installation, as these can cause the keratin bonds to break down. If you must swim, wear a swim cap, or apply a leave-in conditioner to protect the hair.
12. Be Careful with Chemical Treatments
  • Wait at least 2-3 weeks before coloring your hair after installation. Hair color can affect the keratin bonds, so it’s important to allow the bonds to fully set before applying any chemicals.
  • If you plan to color your natural hair, consult with your stylist about safe coloring options that won’t affect your K-tip extensions.
13. Removal of Extensions
  • Do not attempt to remove the extensions yourself. K-Tip extensions must be professionally removed to avoid damage to your natural hair. Trying to remove them on your own could lead to breakage or pain.
  • Your stylist will use a special tool to break down the keratin bonds safely without harming your natural hair.
By following these aftercare guidelines, your K-tip extensions will stay healthy, secure, and looking beautiful for as long as possible. Regular maintenance and gentle handling are key to extending the life of your extensions and keeping both your natural hair and the extensions in top condition.
Aftercare Instructions for Beaded Sew-In Extensions 
1. Wait Before Washing
  • Wait at least 48-72 hours before washing your hair after installation. This allows the beads to settle properly and the natural oils to distribute along the hair.
  • During this initial period, avoid any moisture getting into the beads or on your scalp to prevent loosening or slipping.
2. Shampoo Gently
  • Use sulfate-free, gentle shampoos that are designed for extensions. Sulfates can dry out both the natural hair and the extensions, causing them to become brittle and less manageable.
  • Avoid applying shampoo directly to the beads. Instead, focus on cleansing the scalp by massaging gently, and allow the shampoo to run through the extensions while rinsing.
  • Be sure to avoid rubbing or scrubbing the extensions too roughly to prevent tangling or matting.
3. Conditioning and Moisturizing
  • Condition regularly with a moisturizing conditioner. Apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of the extensions, but avoid applying conditioner directly to the beads or the roots of your natural hair. This will help prevent the beads from loosening.
  • For curly or textured extensions, you can use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to maintain softness and reduce frizz.
  • Deep condition your hair (natural and extensions) once a week to keep it hydrated, shiny, and healthy.
4. Drying Your Hair
  • Blot your hair with a towel after washing, instead of rubbing it, to prevent tangling and breakage.
  • You can either let your hair air dry or blow-dry on a low or cool setting. If using a blow dryer, use a heat protectant spray to minimize heat damage.
  • Avoid excessive heat near the beads as it could cause them to loosen or damage the hair.
5. Protecting Extensions While Sleeping
  • Use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction, which can cause tangling or frizz.
  • Braid your hair loosely or wear it in a loose ponytail to prevent matting or tangling while sleeping.
  • Avoid wearing tight hairstyles at night that can cause unnecessary tension on the beads or your natural hair.
6. Avoid Excessive Heat Styling
  • Limit the use of heat styling tools (like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers) on the extensions to prevent damage and maintain their texture.
  • Always apply a heat protectant before using any styling tools to protect the extensions and your natural hair.
  • When curling or straightening, ensure that you avoid direct heat on the beads. Use heat on the hair below the beads to prevent damage to the extensions.
7. Detangle Carefully
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair, especially when it’s wet. Start at the ends and work your way up to the roots to avoid pulling on the beads.
  • Avoid using small-toothed combs or brushes near the beads to prevent stress on the hair or loosening the beads.
  • For curly or wavy extensions, you may want to use a detangling spray to keep your hair manageable and frizz-free.
8. Avoid Oily Products Near the Beads
  • Avoid applying oils or heavy products near the beads as this can cause them to slip or loosen over time.
  • If you use oils or serums for shine, apply them only to the ends of your hair (not near the roots or beads).
9. Regular Maintenance and Tightening
  • Schedule a maintenance appointment every 6–8 weeks to tighten the beads. As your natural hair grows, the beads may loosen, and a professional stylist can reposition them to maintain the look.
  • If you notice any slipping beads, it’s important to visit your stylist to have them properly adjusted.
  • Trim your extensions regularly to keep them looking fresh and healthy. 
10. Protect Your Hair From Sun and Chlorine
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure, as UV rays can dry out and damage the extensions. Consider wearing a hat or applying a UV protectant spray to your hair.
  • Avoid chlorinated water (such as swimming pools) as it can cause the extensions to become dry and brittle. If swimming, consider wearing a swim cap or apply a protective leave-in conditioner before swimming.
11. Be Careful with Hair Color
  • Avoid coloring or bleaching the extensions at home, as this can damage them. If you want to change the color of your extensions, consult with your stylist who is experienced with extensions.
  • If coloring your natural hair, make sure your stylist if not done at Atomic- knows about your extensions to avoid using harsh chemicals near the beads.
12. Removing Extensions
  • When it’s time to remove your beaded sew-in extensions, it’s crucial to have a professional stylist remove them. Improper removal can lead to damage to your natural hair.
  • Do not attempt to remove the beads yourself, as this can cause breakage or excessive tension on your natural hair.
Regular care, gentle handling, and maintenance appointments are key to extending the life of your extensions.
Aftercare Instructions for your Perm
Here's what you need to know:
1. Avoid Washing Immediately
  • Wait 48 to 72 hours after getting a perm before washing your hair. This allows the curls to fully set and the hair to stabilize in its new shape.
2. Use the Right Shampoo & Conditioner
  • Choose sulfate-free products. Sulfates can strip the hair of moisture, which is crucial for maintaining the health of permed hair.
  • Hydrating & moisturizing shampoos and conditioners help maintain the hair's natural moisture balance, preventing frizz and dryness.
3. Condition Regularly
  • Deep condition treatments are offered and reccomended, after a perm your hair can be more porous and prone to dryness. 
  • Your stylist will suggest a leave-in conditioner for extra moisture and to enhance curl definition.
4. Avoid Heat Styling
  • Limit the use of hot tools like flat irons, curling irons, or blow dryers on high heat. These can damage your curls and cause frizz.
  • If you must use a blow dryer, use a diffuser on low heat and avoid direct heat on the hair.
5. Be Gentle When Wet
  • Never rub your hair with a towel. Instead, gently blot or squeeze out excess water to avoid frizz or breakage.
  • Avoid combing or brushing dry curls. Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to gently detangle hair when wet.
6. Trim Regularly
  • Get regular trims every 6–8 weeks to keep your curls looking fresh and to prevent split ends, which can lead to frizz and uneven curls.
7. Protect Your Hair While Sleeping
  • Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz or breakage.
  • Alternatively, you can loosely tie your hair in a scrunchie or soft hair tie (avoid tight elastics) to keep your curls intact overnight.
8. Avoid Chemical Treatments
  • Wait at least 6 weeks before getting another chemical treatment, like coloring or relaxing, as your hair will be more fragile after a perm.
  • If you color your hair, opt for low-chemical dyes to minimize damage.
9. Protect from the Sun
  • Excessive sun exposure can dry out your curls, making them more prone to frizz and damage. Wear a hat or use a UV protectant spray on your hair when outdoors for long periods.
10. Maintain Healthy Scalp Care
  • Healthy curls start with a healthy scalp. Regularly massage your scalp to encourage circulation and keep your roots nourished.
  • If you experience dryness or flakiness, consider a scalp treatment to balance the scalp's moisture.
By following these care tips, your perm will last longer, and your curls will remain bouncy, healthy, and beautiful!
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  • Book an Appointment
  • About Us
  • Pricing & Services
  • Monthly Hair Horoscope
  • After-care Instructions
  • Buy Stuff