The Blowout Routine That Keeps My Extensions Fresh All Week
If you have extensions, you know the struggle: that perfect first-day blowout that slowly turns into limp waves, oily roots, and dry ends by midweek. I used to think the only solution was booking another salon visit or giving up entirely and wearing a claw clip. But after testing a few stylist-approved tricks and at-home products, I finally found a routine that keeps my extensions looking clean, full, and freshly styled all week long.
Day 1: The Prep That Makes All the Difference
The secret to a long-lasting blowout starts before you even pick up your dryer. I always begin with a lightweight, sulfate-free shampoo that will not strip the bonds, followed by a moisture-focused conditioner that I apply only from mid-length to ends.
After towel-drying, I apply a few spritzes of Oribe Foundation Mist for heat protection and even distribution. Then I add a pea-sized amount of Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother to my ends for softness and frizz control. Once everything is evenly combed through, I section my hair and blow-dry using a round brush, focusing on root lift and smooth tension.
The key here is patience. A good blowout takes a little time, but the payoff is major when it lasts through the week.
Oribe
Foundation Mist
$32
Olaplex
No. 6 Bond Smoother
$30
Day 2–3: The Refresh Phase
This is when things usually go downhill. Instead of reaching for dry shampoo right away, I start by brushing everything out with a boar bristle brush to redistribute oils. Then, I apply Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo, holding the can about six inches away from the roots. Let it sit for a full minute before massaging it in.
If my ends start feeling dry, I warm a drop of Verb Ghost Oil between my palms and lightly press it through the lengths. It adds shine without weighing the hair down. I usually restyle just the top layer with a curling wand to bring back volume and bounce.
Living Proof
Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo
$30
Verb
Ghost Oil
$20
Day 4–5: The Clean Illusion
By day four, I am usually faking freshness. My go-to trick is a quick root touch-up with a volumizing powder like Bumble and Bumble Prêt-à-Powder. It adds grit and lift, making my hair look intentionally textured instead of slightly tired.
If I am pushing for one more day, I do a half-up or low bun style. The goal is to make it look effortless, not overmanaged. A silk scrunchie helps prevent any creasing and keeps the extensions from pulling too much.
Bumble and Bumble
Prêt-à-Powder
$32
Day 6–7: The Reset
When it is time to wash again, I make sure to do a deep cleanse with a gentle clarifying shampoo like Kristin Ess Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo. It removes buildup without drying out the extensions and gives me a fresh foundation for the next round.
Kristin Ess
Deep Clean Clarifying Shampoo
$14
Long Story Short
Keeping your extensions fresh does not mean endless styling or product overload. It just takes a little intention, the right formulas, and knowing when to let your hair breathe.
