Hair Extension Aftercare & Colour Maintenance Guide

Premium hair extensions require special care to maintain their colour, softness, and longevity. Without natural oils from the scalp, extensions are more vulnerable to external factors — which is why the right aftercare is essential.

Here’s what you need to know to protect your investment and keep your extensions at their best!

Why Do Hair Extensions Change Colour?

Even the highest quality extensions can shift tone over time. This is completely normal and can happen faster without the right maintenance. You would not expect your natural hair colour to stay perfectly fresh for months without maintenance — and the same applies to extensions.

Common causes include:

• Hard Water: Minerals such as iron, copper, and chlorine can cause yellowing or brassiness.

• Heat Damage: Excessive heat styling without protection weakens the hair cuticle, making the hair more porous. This increased porosity allows minerals and environmental factors to affect the colour, often leading to a duller or warmer tone.

• Sun Exposure: UV rays lighten hair naturally, often making blonde or lighter shades appear warmer.

• Product Build-Up: Certain shampoos, conditioners, and styling products can leave residues that alter colour.

• Oxidation: Environmental exposure (pollution, air, chemicals) causes the hair to “oxidize,” shifting it to warmer hues.

How Sunscreen Can Affect Hair Extensions

One of the biggest hidden causes of discolouration is sunscreen — even trace amounts left on your skin or hands.

Many sunscreens contain avobenzone or oxybenzone, ingredients that cause a chemical reaction when they come into contact with blonde or light-coloured extensions. This reaction can lead to staining, turning extensions yellow, peach, or even pinkish.

Tips to Prevent Sunscreen Damage:

• Choose sunscreens labeled mineral-based or benzene-free when possible.

• Wash hands thoroughly after applying sunscreen before touching your hair.

• Avoid letting sunscreen-covered skin (especially shoulders and back) directly rub against your extensions. Even tips of a ponytail in contact with your skin can result in colour change.

How to Prevent Warm Tones in Extensions

• Use a Shower Filter: Install a filter to remove minerals and chlorine from your water.

• Protect Against Heat: Always apply a professional-grade heat protectant before styling. Keep heat tools under 180°C (350°F).

• Limit UV Exposure: Wear a hat in strong sun or use a UV-protectant spray for hair.

• Use Colour-Safe Products: Stick to gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for coloured or blonde hair.

• Rinse Hair After Swimming: Whether in pools or the ocean, rinse extensions immediately to remove chlorine, salt, and other residues.

• Minimise Washing: Extensions don’t produce oils like natural hair. Wash only when needed to maintain colour and moisture balance. Twice a week is ideal.

Essential Aftercare Routine

Washing:

• Use lukewarm water — not hot.

• Apply a small amount of sulfate-free, colour-safe shampoo.

• Gently massage (don’t scrub) from mid-lengths to ends.

• Rinse thoroughly and repeat if needed.

Conditioning:

• Always follow with a hydrating conditioner. Avoid protein based (Olaplex), opt for moisture based (k18)

• Avoid applying conditioner directly to bonds or attachment points.

Styling:

• Detangle gently using a wide-tooth comb or soft-bristle brush.

• Apply heat protection before any styling.

• Minimise heat use whenever possible.

Buildup Removal:

Regularly use a Malibu C Blondes Treatment (for blonde extensions) or Malibu C Extensions Treatment (for all extension types) to gently remove mineral buildup and restore brightness without damaging the hair.
These treatments are highly recommended for extensions exposed to hard water, pools, or frequent sunscreen use.
Professional in-salon Malibu C services are also available for deeper clarifying when needed.

• Quick Guide: Which Malibu C Treatment to Use

  • Malibu C Blondes Treatment:

    • Best for blonde or light-toned extensions.

    • Removes yellowing, minerals, and chlorine buildup.

  • Malibu C Extensions Treatment:

    • Safe for all extension types and bonds.

    • Gently removes buildup while preserving moisture.

  • Malibu C Crystal Gel Treatment:

    • Deep cleanse for severe buildup.

    • Recommended for professional salon use before toning.

Storage (for Clip-Ins or Removable Extensions):

• Store clean, dry extensions in a breathable bag or box.

• Keep them away from direct sunlight, humidity, and excessive heat.

Professional Toning & Treatments

If you notice warmth or discolouration, a professional toner or colour-refresh treatment may be needed. In cases of mineral or chemical buildup, a Malibu C treatment is an excellent first step before toning.

• Malibu C treatments help lift buildup caused by hard water, chlorine, product residues, and sunscreen — often correcting discolouration without the need for additional toners or dyes.

• If toning is needed afterward, the hair will accept colour more evenly and gently after a Malibu C service.

Note: Avoid overusing purple shampoos at home, as excessive use can leave hair looking dull or overly ashy.