The Ultimate Do’s and Don’ts for Hair Systems and Extensions

If you wear a hair system or hair extensions, you already know that the right products and proper care can make all the difference between flawless, long-lasting results and frustrating, costly damage. Unfortunately, the internet is full of home remedies and “hacks” — from using Dawn dish soap to Olaplex, isopropyl alcohol, or even acetone — that may do more harm than good.

To help you avoid common pitfalls and keep your investment looking great, we’ve put together The Ultimate Do’s and Don’ts for hair systems and extensions. We’ll cover everything — from tape and adhesives to removers, shampoos, and scalp care — plus a few surprising “weird tips” that you should definitely skip.

Tape

✅ Do’s

Do start with a clean, dry, oil-free scalp or base before applying tape. Use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to remove oils if needed.
Do apply tape in thin, even strips and press firmly for full contact.
Do wait at least 24 hours before swimming, showering, or sweating heavily to allow the bond to set.
Do use silk or satin pillowcases to prevent edge lifting and friction at night.
Do check edges regularly and replace tape when needed to avoid buildup.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t apply tape to damp or sweaty skin — it will compromise the hold.
Don’t overlap or layer too many tapes; this can cause residue and poor adhesion.
Don’t use household double-sided tape or craft adhesive — these aren’t safe for skin.
Don’t blast tape edges with a hot blow dryer; heat can break down adhesive.

Adhesive

✅ Do’s

Do perform a patch test with any new adhesive brand.
Do apply in thin, even coats and let it dry until tacky before attaching your system.
Do choose adhesives designed specifically for hair systems or extensions, such as water-based or silicone-based formulas.
Do clean old adhesive residue before re-bonding to ensure strong attachment.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t skip maintenance; adhesive buildup attracts dirt and bacteria.
Don’t apply glue on oily or irritated skin.
Don’t rush the drying process — adhesive needs a tacky finish, not a wet one.
Don’t use random “skin-safe” glues from craft stores — they aren’t tested for long-term contact.

Solvents & Removers

✅ Do’s

Do use professional adhesive removers made for hair systems or tape-ins.
Do let the remover work for several minutes before lifting the system or tape.
Do rinse both scalp and base thoroughly after removal to remove solvent residue.
Do gently comb through adhesive residue instead of scraping it off.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t pull off a system or extensions without enough remover — it can damage your scalp and your investment.
Don’t use acetone, nail polish remover, or dishwasher detergent on your system — they can melt the base or dry the hair.
Don’t soak the base in harsh alcohol overnight; it can weaken lace or poly materials.

Care Products (Shampoo, Conditioner & Styling)

✅ Do’s

Do wash with sulfate-free, pH-balanced shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
Do use light, silicone-free conditioners from mid-lengths to ends only.
Do apply leave-in sprays or detanglers to keep hair soft and manageable.
Do use a wide-tooth comb or loop brush to avoid pulling at the base.
Do limit washing frequency — 1-2 times per week is ideal for most wearers.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t use heat tools above 180°C / 350°F, especially on synthetic or V-Loop systems.
Don’t wash your system or extensions with Dawn dish soap or laundry detergent — these strip oils and damage hair cuticles.
Don’t overuse salon treatments like Olaplex unless they’re system-safe. Some bond builders can loosen adhesives or make hair too slippery.
Don’t wash with very hot water or scrub the base aggressively.
Don’t apply heavy oils or serums near adhesive or tape points — they cause lifting.

Scalp Care

✅ Do’s

Do clean and exfoliate your scalp during maintenance breaks.
Do use a scalp protector or barrier spray before adhesive application.
Do moisturize lightly if your scalp feels dry between installations.
Do give your scalp a “breathing break” between long wears.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t apply adhesive to broken, red, or inflamed skin.
Don’t over-cleanse with harsh alcohol daily — it can cause dryness or irritation.
Don’t neglect scalp hygiene; buildup of sweat and oils reduces hold time and comfort.
Don’t ignore itching, tightness, or irritation — it’s a sign your scalp needs rest.

🚫 Don’ts — “Weird Hacks” You Should Avoid

The internet is full of “miracle tricks” that can do more harm than good. Some people suggest using Dawn dish soap to strip oils or adhesives from hair systems or extensions.

Note: In the United States, this dish soap is known as Dawn, but in Europe it’s sold under the names Fairy or Dreft (depending on the country). It’s all made by the same company — and equally unsuitable for cleaning hair systems or extensions.

Dish soap can severely dry out the hair, weaken knots, and damage the base material. Similarly, avoid using isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or bleach-based cleaners directly on your hair system or scalp. These products can break down adhesives, fade color, and irritate skin — even if they seem like a quick fix.

Other “creative” home remedies that can cause damage include:

Isopropyl alcohol (too strong): Can dehydrate the skin if used excessively — safe only as a quick pre-cleanser.
Olaplex or salon bond builders: Excellent for natural hair but too concentrated for system hair; may make strands brittle or overly slick.
Vinegar rinses, lemon juice, or baking soda: Alter the pH balance and can weaken knots, fade color, or dry out the base material.
Household glue or spray adhesive: Not designed for skin or scalp use — avoid at all costs.
Bleach (including household or hair bleach): Extremely harsh on hair systems and extensions. It can break down the hair fibers, damage knots, and ruin the base material. Never use bleach directly on your system or extensions.

Stick to products specifically designed for hair systems and extensions. They’re formulated to protect both your scalp and the delicate materials your piece is made of.or hair systems and extensions. They’re formulated to protect both your scalp and the delicate materials your piece is made of.

Final Thoughts

The golden rule: if it wasn’t made for hair systems or extensions, don’t put it on your head.

Gentle, professional products give longer wear, easier cleanup, and healthier scalp comfort. A little discipline in your routine — using the right adhesive, safe remover, and gentle care — goes a long way toward keeping your look seamless and stress-free.

Your hair system or extensions are an investment. Treat them with care — not kitchen hacks!