Frequently
Asked Questions
General Questions
I have forgotten my username or password what do I do?
Forgot Your Password?
The quickest way to regain access to your account is by clicking the “Reset Password” link.
If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, feel free to contact our customer support team at info@routeshairextensions.com.
What Does Back Order Mean?
If an item shows the message:
“This item is currently out of stock but can be reserved on back order. We aim to dispatch within 2-3 weeks,”
it simply means we’re waiting for new stock to arrive. By placing a back order, you can rest assured that your item will be shipped to you automatically as soon as it becomes available again.
How Long Do Back Orders Take?
We aim to complete back orders within 2–3 weeks (often sooner), processing them strictly in the order they were received. Unfortunately, we cannot offer a more exact delivery time because the products are imported and must clear customs, which can cause variable delays. Although uncommon, longer wait times may occasionally occur due to factors outside our control.
What If Some Items Are on Back Order and Others Are in Stock?
If your order contains both in-stock items and back-ordered items, we typically send everything together once all products are ready.
If you prefer the in-stock items to be shipped first, we can arrange this, but please note that an additional postage charge will apply.
Will Routes ship orders outside of the UK?
Yes, we ship internationally! All global orders are sent at a flat rate of £20 for parcels weighing up to 2kg. Unfortunately, we cannot ship parcels exceeding 2kg due to postal restrictions – if your order exceeds this limit, we will contact you directly.
Please note that import duties, taxes, and customs fees may apply depending on your country’s regulations. As international customers are exempt from UK VAT, you are responsible for checking and paying any applicable import taxes upon delivery.
When will my order arrive?
Fast & Flexible UK Delivery – Same-Day Dispatch
We offer a range of UK delivery options to suit your needs – from guaranteed next-day delivery to a more affordable standard service (which is free on orders over £250).
Order by 5pm Monday to Friday, and we’ll dispatch your parcel the same day – one of the latest dispatch times in the industry! Orders placed after 5pm, on weekends, or bank holidays will be processed on the next working day.
International Shipping Times
We also deliver worldwide! Overseas parcels typically take 2-15 working days, depending on your location.
Choose the delivery service that works best for you below and enjoy fast, reliable shipping.
Where do hair extensions actually come from?
You’ve probably heard of “Russian Mongolian hair” – it sounds luxurious, right? But here’s the truth: It doesn’t actually exist!
That’s right – Russian Mongolian hair is simply a marketing gimmick used by many hair extension brands to make their products seem exclusive. If questioned, these brands often claim that’s what their Chinese manufacturers told them. This raises two concerns:
Lack of industry knowledge – They didn’t do their research and don’t understand the hair extension supply chain.
Deliberate deception – They know the truth but choose to mislead customers because authentic Russian hair costs more than the retail price of most so-called “Russian Mongolian” extensions.
The same misleading labels apply to Brazilian and European hair. These origins are rarely genuine because human hair donations are extremely scarce in these regions – primarily due to cultural and religious reasons. Realistically, how many people do you know who’ve sold their hair?
Where Do Hair Extensions Actually Come From?
Approximately 90% of the world’s hair extensions are processed and packaged in China. While some hair is sourced locally within China, a significant portion comes from India, purchased through hair vendor auctions, and then sent to China for processing.
There are a few factories in India that export raw hair, but this is typically dark brown or black and hasn’t undergone any chemical processing. In contrast, Chinese factories use advanced technology to process and manufacture the wide range of shades and textures that dominate the global hair extension market.
At Routes Hair Extensions, we understand the challenges of sourcing genuine Russian hair. Our Russian-sourced, Russian-manufactured extensions were so expensive – five times the price of our Luxury Range – that they became a niche product, which is why they’ve now been discontinued (available at outlet prices while stocks last).
The Need for Transparency in the Hair Industry
Currently, no legislation regulates how hair extensions are marketed, allowing brands to mislabel their products without consequence. At Routes, we believe in honesty and transparency – because you deserve the real facts to make informed purchasing decisions.
If regulations were introduced, it would be interesting to see how quickly these misleading descriptions like “Russian Mongolian” and “European hair” disappear.
Our Ethical Sourcing Promise
We’ve spent years sourcing high-quality hair from ethical manufacturers worldwide. Our manufacturing partners uphold the highest standards, ensuring premium quality and ethical practices.
Here’s a breakdown of our hair extension ranges, including the origin of the hair and manufacturing locations:
Luxury Hair
Source/Origin: South India (Temple Hair)
Partner Factory Location: North China
Premium Gold Hair
Source/Origin: South India (Temple Hair)
Partner Factory Location: North China
Russian Routes (Discontinued – Available in our Outlet Sale at below cost price)
Source/Origin: Russia
Partner Factory Location: West Russia
MVP Hair
Source/Origin: Mongolia/North China Border
Partner Factory Location: East China
At Routes Hair Extensions, we’re committed to offering authentic, high-quality hair extensions with transparent sourcing. Shop confidently, knowing that the hair you purchase is exactly as described – no myths, no misleading labels, just honest quality.
What grade is Routes hair?
The Truth About the Hair Extension Grading System
At Routes Hair Extensions, we don’t rely on the outdated and misleading hair extension grading system (like AAA, AAAA, or 5A+). Instead, we let the quality, durability, and performance of our hair speak for itself – because true quality doesn’t need gimmicks.
The “A” grading system was originally designed to reflect several factors: whether the hair is single drawn or double drawn, the length and thickness, the processing level, and the overall quality. However, this system is now outdated and seldom used by reputable brands. With no official regulations in the hair extension industry, many companies manipulate these grades to falsely market their products. It’s common to see exaggerated claims like 8AAAAAAAA+, but these labels are meaningless without evidence to back them up.
The reality is, a higher grade doesn’t always mean better quality. Many customers assume that the more A’s they see, the better the hair – but this is not always true. In fact, some brands advertising lower grades offer hair that is far superior in lifespan, thickness consistency, and overall quality.
At Routes, we reject false advertising and refuse to mislead our customers. Instead, we provide clear, accurate information about every aspect of our hair – weight, length, origin, and expected lifespan – so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
We are so confident in the quality of our products that we offer the longest quality guarantee in the industry, giving you peace of mind with every purchase.
When you choose Routes Hair Extensions, you’re choosing premium-quality, ethically sourced hair with a proven reputation. No gimmicks, no outdated grading systems – just exceptional hair backed by the industry’s longest quality guarantee for long-lasting, beautiful results.
What is the difference between single drawn and double drawn hair?
When it comes to hair extensions, the difference between single drawn and double drawn hair can significantly affect the quality, appearance, and final results. At Routes Hair Extensions, we only provide premium double drawn hair, ensuring a thicker, fuller look from root to tip. Here’s why double drawn hair is the superior choice:
What is Single Drawn Hair?
Single drawn hair is the standard thickness found in many cheaper hair extension brands. This type of hair comes from one donor – imagine a ponytail cut from a single person. Because natural hair grows at different rates and experiences regular shedding or breakage, the hair tapers, meaning the ends are much thinner than the roots.
In single drawn hair, only about 50% of the strands match the advertised length, while the rest consists of shorter hairs – some significantly shorter. This causes a noticeable thinning toward the ends, resulting in a less voluminous look.
What is Double Drawn Hair?
Double drawn hair is thick from root to tip due to a meticulous, labor-intensive process where at least 80% of the shorter strands are removed. To ensure enough hair of the longest length, double drawn hair is often collected from multiple donors.
The process of creating double drawn extensions is both time-consuming and expensive – it takes approximately 10 pounds of raw hair to produce just 1 pound of 20-inch double drawn hair. Each strand is hand-sorted to remove shorter lengths, increasing material and labor costs – but the result is a thicker, more luxurious finish.
Why Professionals Prefer Double Drawn Hair
Despite its higher price, many hair professionals exclusively choose double drawn hair for its superior quality and long-lasting results. Because it is naturally thicker, you need fewer strands to achieve a full, voluminous look – reducing the weight and tension on the client’s natural hair. This makes double drawn hair a safer, more comfortable, and more cost-effective option over time.
At Routes Hair Extensions, we only supply double drawn hair because we believe in delivering exceptional quality with beautiful, natural-looking results. Whether you’re a stylist or a customer, choosing double drawn hair extensions means choosing the best in the industry – thicker, fuller, and designed to last.
Advice
Why Routes DO NOT recommend sulphate free shampoo in conjunction with our hair
Low Sulphate vs Sulphate Free Shampoo
The issue with sulphates is a strange one! Many people say “no sulphates” but when you try to get to the bottom of “why not?” – the water gets very muddy.
We have researched this issue extensively, and the two best answers that we could find were these:
SLS & SLES (the most common sulphates in shampoo) were rumoured to be harmful to the environment and should not be used. Because the initials were for two very long words, SLS = sodium laureth sulphate, and SLES = sodium laureth ether sulphate, most people shortened them to just “sulphate”. This caused the rumour to grow that “sulphate” (“all sulphates”) were bad. This is not the case. – It also seems that certain extension manufacturers were unhappy that very effective alternative shampoos became available, which affected sales. They changed their formula to something that was a little more exclusive to them, and then encouraged the rumour that sulphates were not safe.
We think it is a good idea to ask yourself a question. If sulphates are fine for “real hair”, why are they not fine for “real hair” extensions?
When you consider that sulphates are still formulated into cutting edge shampoo technology, by the finest leading Laboratories on the planet, are used in the absolute top shampoos of the world, and used by the most discerning and well educated elite of society, it does begin to make you think!! Although our opinion is not really what matters, surely, what is important to the extension, is the shine, the health and the lifespan? This is why we recommend products that we have tried and tested for you so many times and against some top professional brands and found to be the best. If our results are as beautiful as we claim, and the lifespan of the extension is extended, is this not everything that you would want to ask from an aftercare product?
Many people report that when using sulphate free the hair never feels clean and is limp. The whole issue with sulphates being that it strips moisture from hair. Unfortunately, even sulfate-free shampoos will also strip your hair of oil. This is because all shampoos strip your hair of natural oil. That’s how they clean. If you are concerned about losing your hair’s natural oils, the only thing you can do is stop washing your hair. But I wouldn’t get too attached to your natural oils, because they capture dirt, pollen, and pollution, which we definitely don’t want in our hair. This is why our shampoos very low in sulphates will still cleanse and lather (not as much lather as the supermarket stuff) but also have nourishing elements to protect and care. Then to follow with our thick nourishing conditioner to put back moisture through length and ends that shampoo removes (the roots will provide their own natural oils again after washing) and a spritz of protein therapy spray and the hair has everything it needs to stay clean moisturised and healthy.
Remember also that sulphate free shampoos are packed with alternative chemicals that most who don’t hold a chemical degree would not know the properties of one over another. The marketing hype of manufacturers of sulphate free shampoos is in our opinion on a par with the cola vs. diet cola- everyone went crazy for the no sugar cola until the day they find that the alternative sweeteners were equally as bad for you as sugars – therefore could have had the far better tasting more effective enjoyment drink with no worse health risk all along.
In fact the factory where we have our aftercare products made also produce a sulphate free shampoo and it would cost us no more or less to offer this with our brand but it simply is not as effective with our hair as the one we offer so why would we offer one that will leave your hair feeling not as great as it could?
Other hair extension brands may well offer or recommend sulphate free shampoos as this may work well with their hair. Each brand of extensions could have been sourced in a completely different region and more importantly the processing of the hair can be entirely different to another meaning that products suitable or one brand may be unsuitable on another. We only offer the absolute best for Routes hair – this is not to say this is the recommendation for another brand of extensions as stated above but if we felt that another product was better or even on par we would offer this to our customers as it is in our best interest that those who choose routes hair get the best they possibly can from their hair extensions.
We hope this helps you to Un-jumble some jargon and make your own informed choices
Nail tips / u tips/ fusion bonds slipping - what is the cause and how to rectify
Nail tips / U tips / fusion bonds slipping – what is the cause and how to rectify
Although bonds slipping in nail tip bond fittings is extremely rare we have added some info as the the most common factors that lead to slippage so that you can prevent this in your future fittings.
Clients hair not correctly prepared
Before any hair extension methods are applied you should wash your clients hair in clarifying shampoo and under no circumstances use any conditioner or products other than clarifying shampoo. This is to thoroughly clean the hair and remove any residues and oils from the hair in order to allow the bond of the extension to fully fuse to the clients hair without any form of barrier. We recommend you take this step with your client or ask them to do this but stress that if they ignore this advise and then run into slipping problems as a result of the preparation being incorrect there will be little that you can do about it other than to remove the extensions.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems that occurs in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare product use and incorrect care given to the hair. We advise that before you go ahead and fit your clients hair extensions you use our consultation form to decide which method is suitable (find this download and print form further up the page) followed by giving the client routes full comprehensive aftercare guide. If you run through all the factors on there so that the client understands that THEY are making the commitment of the aftercare to the hair. Incorrect shampoos and products on the bonds can cause the bonds to become sticky and soft and result in shedding and bonds slipping. This can further cause problems as the sticky bonds stick to other parts of the hair adding to the problem. Also it is important that conditioner is not applied to the bonds (even the correct Routes conditioner) as this will also result in softening of the bonds and can cause the seal to be lost resulting in slipping and even falling out. We sell all the products your client needs for the hair it is no gimmick that the products are tried tested and care for the hair and bonds correctly. Also problems can occur on the bonds when a client has visited a spa and sat in hot steam rooms for lengths of time with moisture in the air and heat breaking down the bonds. Swimming can also damage the bonds as well as hair with high levels of chlorine used. It is unlikely to breakdown the bond but will certainly not agree with the hair itself.
Bonds not sealed correctly
When fitting nail tip hair extensions it is essential that the bonds are sealed tight, neat smooth bonds and fitted in neat sections. If the bond is lumpy/squidgy/squashes then it has not been sealed correctly. If the seal is not tight and neat then air, water and products can seep into the bond and gradually diminish the bond from the hair and slippage will occur or strands may fall out (usually when washing). To rectify this re heat the bond thoroughly again until the keratin is bubbling and roll the bond again this time adding more pressure and ensuring the neat and tight finished bond. All our bonds are made from Italian keratin which is the strongest bond on the market to give minimal damage. It needs heating up thoroughly which does take longer than cheap resins and alternative bonding systems – the bond should have no hard lumps and should be held in your heat connector until the keratin is bubbling which indicates it is now ready to be rolled and sealed. Also if the sections of hair used are not from a neat and tidy section and there are hairs from other areas held in the bond these will likely do one of 2 things – either pull free leaving a gap in the bond where the hairs were resulting in the air, water and products getting in and causing slipping or the hair from other areas will snap causing damage to the clients own hair and more pressure on the bond. A badly sectioned fitting will also feel very uncomfortable and even painful for the client.
Wrong hair type
As the hair extension technician you must consider on consultation the clients natural hair type and weather it is suitable for a particular method of hair extensions. If the client has extremely oily hair it may mean it is not suitable for nail tip extensions but it would still be a better bet than using ring techniques such as micro loops/nano tips as the client almost certainly wouldn’t be a suitable candidate for these methods. Although it would be very rare for clients oily hair to affect the bonds it is important that you advise the client of the possible problems that can occur and that they may need more frequent maintenance appointments. It is vital to make this clear so that the client understands the commitment they are making and that if their hair type was an issue that they had agreed to the extra care that may be needed.
Hair Extensions Turning Orange or Peach
When hair extensions change color (beyond just a little fading), it’s due to a chemical reaction. Since hair extensions are chemically processed and more porous than natural hair, they absorb external elements more easily. This makes them particularly vulnerable – especially during summer or when traveling abroad.
If you live in a hard water area or you’re spending time in the sun, it’s crucial to understand what causes hair discoloration and how to protect your extensions from turning orange, peach, or even green.
Common Causes of Hair Extensions Turning Orange or Peach
Iron in Water
In many overseas locations, older plumbing systems made from iron can release iron particles into the water supply. Similarly, areas in the UK with hard water contain high mineral content. When these minerals soak into hair extensions, they can cause a chemical reaction, leaving behind orange or pink tones.
Chlorine Exposure
Chlorine is a major culprit for both drying out hair and causing discoloration. Chlorine binds to the hair and can leave it with green, orange, or pink hues. This is especially true for porous hair like extensions, which absorb these chemicals more easily.
SPF Creams
While SPF protects your skin, it can wreak havoc on hair extensions. Sunscreens and face creams containing SPF often contain Avobenzone (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane) – a chemical that reacts with minerals in water, causing orange or peach stains on extensions.
Salt Water
Salt water strips moisture and fades the tone of hair extensions, leaving them dry, brittle, and prone to color changes. Regular exposure can accelerate wear and cause the hair to look dull and weathered.
Sun Exposure
Prolonged sun exposure can fade color and weaken the hair structure. Just like UV rays damage natural hair, they’re even harsher on chemically-treated extensions, leading to discoloration and dryness.
Top Tips to Prevent Hair Extensions from Turning Orange
1. Use Bottled Water
One of the best-kept secrets for preventing discoloration is bottled water. Before exposing your hair to shower water, pools, or sea water, thoroughly saturate it with bottled water. This helps the hair absorb clean water first, reducing the amount of damaging chemicals it takes in.
2. Keep Hair Out of the Water
When swimming, try to avoid submerging your hair. If a swimming cap isn’t your thing, braid your hair and twist it into a bun to keep it out of the chlorine or salt water.
3. Cover Up
Shield your hair from the sun by covering it with a towel, scarf, or wide-brimmed hat when sunbathing. This helps prevent UV damage and protects your extensions from drying out.
4. Choose the Right Products
Always look for UV protection and skincare products without Avobenzone.
What to Do If Your Hair Extensions Turn Orange or Peach
Don’t panic! There are ways to reverse the chemical reaction.
While we typically recommend using Routes aftercare exclusively, a product called Malibu C can effectively remove minerals that cause discoloration. Although we don’t sell it directly, it’s available from large retailers like Amazon.
How to Use Malibu C on Hair Extensions:
Use 1 sachet per 50g of hair.
Follow the step-by-step tutorials available on YouTube for best results.
After using Malibu C, follow up with Routes Shampoo, Conditioner, Boost Treatment, and Protein Spray to restore moisture and protect the longevity of your extensions. Clarifying treatments can be drying, so proper aftercare is essential.
Why Routes Aftercare Matters
By using Routes aftercare consistently, you not only keep your extensions in perfect condition, but you also maintain the longest quality guarantee in the industry.
For example, MVP Hair – when treated correctly – lasts 12-18 months (and often longer!). If, however, it perishes early (within 7 months), we’ll replace it free of charge.
Tiny tips fitted with micro rings slipping
Tiny tips, also known as tiny I tips or stick tips, are one of the most popular hair extension methods today. They revolutionised the industry as nothing is permanently fixed to the hair, and a simple clamp of a ring gives a strong, secure, and undetectable fitting without the use of bonds or removal chemicals on the client’s natural hair. The biggest benefit of choosing tiny tips is that if any slipping occurs, they are very easy to refit and can be reused month after month—unlike methods such as micro loops and nail tips. However, they should only be fitted by trained professionals, as improper application can cause damage. Slipping is uncommon when using tiny tips with our silicone-lined micro rings, but if issues do arise, they typically fall into one of the categories below.
Clients hair not correctly prepared
Before applying any hair extension method, the client’s hair must be washed with clarifying shampoo. Under no circumstances should conditioner or any other products be used—only clarifying shampoo. This ensures the hair is thoroughly cleansed of oils and residue so that the micro ring can get a strong grip. We recommend doing this step with your client or instructing them carefully beforehand. If they ignore this advice and experience slipping due to improper preparation, there will be little that can be done besides removing and refitting the extensions after correct preparation.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest issues in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare and the use of unsuitable products. Before fitting your client’s extensions, you should complete a consultation form to determine the best method (you can find the downloadable form further up the page), then give the client Routes’ full aftercare guide. Make sure the client understands that THEY are responsible for maintaining their extensions.
Incorrect shampoos or products used on the tiny tip keratin can cause the bonding to soften or become sticky, leading to shedding and slipping. It is also crucial that the client avoids using conditioner or any products other than shampoo near the root area where the tiny tips are applied. If soft or oily products get inside the ring, they weaken the grip and cause slipping. Clients must also be taught how to brush their hair properly using a Teezer brush while holding the hair in a bunch near the roots to avoid pulling on the rings or stressing their natural hair. Incorrect brushing can cause slipping or even pull strands out completely. All recommended products we sell are tried, tested, and formulated to care for both the hair and the bonds.
Not enough hair pulled through the ring
Aside from softening products, the most common cause of tiny tip slippage is not pulling enough of the client’s natural hair through the ring. Using neat, tidy sections, ensure a good amount of hair is pulled through using the loop tool. It should feel like a gentle tug to get the hair through—if it slides through effortlessly, it’s not enough hair. If slipping is a concern or has happened before, we recommend using two micro rings per tiny tip for extra strength and grip.
Wrong hair type
During consultation, the extension technician must assess whether the client’s natural hair is suitable for tiny tips. Clients with extremely oily or extremely fine hair may not be ideal candidates. This is rare, and in most cases a good fitting will still work effectively. However, if you are at all concerned about grip on very oily or fine hair, you may wish to recommend nail tip or fusion bonds, as they provide a stronger hold.
If the client prefers tiny tips despite potential challenges, simply make them aware that they may require more frequent maintenance. If they are happy with this and give the go-ahead, you can proceed with the fitting.
Tiny tips fitted with copper tubes slipping
Tiny tips, also known as tiny I tips or stick tips, are one of the most popular hair extension methods today. They revolutionised hair extensions as nothing is permanently fixed to the hair, and a simple clamp of a copper tube gives a strong, secure, and undetectable fitting without using bonds or removal chemicals on the client’s natural hair. The main benefit of tiny tips is that if any slipping occurs, they are very easy to refit and can be reused over the months, unlike other methods such as micro loops and nail tips. However, we only advise trained professionals to fit them, as improper application can cause damage. Slipping is uncommon when using tiny tips with our copper tubes, but if issues do arise, they usually fall into one of the categories below.
Clients hair not correctly prepared
Before applying any hair extension method, the client’s hair should be washed with clarifying shampoo. Under no circumstances should conditioner or any products other than clarifying shampoo be used. This ensures the hair is thoroughly cleansed of oils and residues, allowing the copper tube to get a solid grip. We recommend performing this step with your client or instructing them carefully. If they ignore this advice and slipping occurs due to improper preparation, the only solution is to remove the extensions and refit them after the hair has been prepared correctly.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare and the use of unsuitable products. Before fitting your client’s extensions, use our consultation form to determine the most suitable method (the downloadable form is further up the page), then provide the client with Routes’ full aftercare guide. Go through all points so the client understands that THEY are responsible for maintaining their hair extensions.
Incorrect shampoos or products on the tiny tip keratin can cause the bonding to become sticky or soft, resulting in shedding and slipping. It is essential that the client does not use conditioner or any product other than shampoo around the root area where the tiny tips are applied. If soft products get inside the copper tube, they can reduce the tube’s grip and cause slippage. Additionally, clients must be taught how to brush their hair correctly using a Teezer brush while holding the hair in a bunch near the roots, avoiding pulling on the tubes or placing strain on their natural hair. Incorrect brushing can cause slipping or even pull strands out. All recommended products we sell are tried, tested, and specifically formulated to care for both the hair and bonds.
Not enough hair pulled through the tube
Aside from softening products, the most common cause of tiny tip slippage is not pulling enough of the client’s own hair through the tube using the loop tool. Using neat, tidy sections, make sure a sufficient amount of hair is pulled through. It should feel like a gentle tug—if it slides through too easily, not enough hair has been used. If slipping is a concern or has occurred previously, consider refitting the hair with our silicone-lined micro rings, using two micro rings per tiny tip for extra grip.
Wrong hair type
During consultation, the extension technician must assess whether the client’s natural hair is suitable for tiny tips. Clients with extremely oily or very fine hair may not be ideal candidates. This is rare, and in most cases a good fitting will still work effectively. If there is concern about grip on oily or fine hair, you may recommend nail tip or fusion bond methods, which provide a stronger hold.
If the client prefers tiny tips despite potential challenges, make them aware that their hair may require more frequent maintenance. If they understand this and agree, you can proceed with the fitting.
Nano tips slipping
Nano tips are just what they say on the tin. A “Nano” ring is as small as the tip of a pen and is the smallest fitment in the world of hair extensions. They are also popular because they don’t use any bonds on the hair and carry very little risk of damage. Like tiny tips, they are reusable multiple times, as you can refit with a new nano ring each time. Nano tips are a very popular option and usually have very few problems, but if slipping does occur, it is likely due to one of the following causes.
Clients hair not correctly prepared
Before applying any hair extension method, the client’s hair should be washed with clarifying shampoo. Under no circumstances should conditioner or any other products be used. This ensures the hair is thoroughly cleansed of residues and oils, allowing the nano ring to get a solid grip. We recommend doing this step with your client or instructing them carefully. If they ignore this advice and slipping occurs due to improper preparation, the only solution is to remove the extensions and refit them after the hair has been properly prepared.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare and the use of unsuitable products. Before fitting your client’s extensions, use our consultation form to determine the most suitable method (downloadable form available further up the page), then provide the client with Routes’ full aftercare guide. Go through all points so the client understands that THEY are responsible for maintaining their hair extensions.
Incorrect shampoos or products on the keratin part of the nano tip can cause the bonding to become sticky or soft, resulting in shedding and slipping. It is essential that the client does not use conditioner or any product other than shampoo near the root area where the nano rings are applied. If soft products get inside the ring, they reduce the ring’s grip and cause slipping. Clients must also be taught how to brush their hair correctly using a Teezer brush while holding the hair in a bunch near the roots, avoiding pulling on the rings or placing strain on their natural hair. Incorrect brushing can cause slipping or even pull strands out. All recommended products we sell are tried, tested, and formulated to care for both the hair and bonds properly.
Not enough hair pulled through the ring
Aside from softening products, the most common cause of nano tip slippage is not pulling enough of the client’s own hair through the ring using the loop tool. Using neat, tidy sections, ensure a sufficient amount of hair is pulled through. It should feel like a gentle tug—if it slides through easily, not enough hair has been used. If slipping is a concern or has occurred previously, consider using two nano rings per tip for extra grip and strength.
Wrong hair type
During consultation, the extension technician must assess whether the client’s natural hair is suitable for nano tips. Clients with extremely oily or very fine hair may not be ideal candidates. This is rare, and in most cases a good fitting will still work effectively. If there is concern about grip on oily or fine hair, consider using two nano rings per tip, or recommend nail tip or fusion bond methods for stronger hold.
If the client prefers nano tips despite potential challenges, make them aware that their hair may require more frequent maintenance. If they are happy with this and agree, you can proceed with the fitting.
Hair extensions are shedding
Hair extensions like our own hair shed every day and this is perfectly normal especially when you have fitted a new set when there may be the odd loose hairs that detach in the first week or two. After the initial 2 weeks after fitting and washing a couple of times the initial shedding should calm down to a much more normal rate in line with someone with naturally long thick hair. Likewise your own natural hair sheds between 60-100 strands on average per day so do not be alarmed when you remove your clients extensions to see some of their own natural hair in the bonds as the shed hair has been held in there for potentially months so this is again normal. However if you find that your clients hair extensions are excessively shedding and the overall appearance of the extensions changes, and the shedding does not calm down this could be caused by one of many things. We have listed below to help diagnose and avoid future problems.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems that occurs in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare product use and incorrect care given to the hair. We advise that before you go ahead and fit your clients hair extensions you use our consultation form to decide which method is suitable (find this download and print form further up the page) followed by giving the client Routes full comprehensive aftercare guide. If you run through all the factors on there so that the client understands that THEY are making the commitment of the aftercare to the hair. Incorrect shampoos and products on the keratin bond of any strand hair extensions can cause the bonding to become sticky and soft and result in shedding and bonds breaking down. Also you must teach your client how to correctly brush their hair using a Teezer brush and holding the hair in a bunch near to the roots so not putting strain on the bonds. It is very important to run through on consultation the DO’s and DONT’s of the clients lifestyle also because if they visit spas this can have a devastating effect on hair extensions by sitting in hot steam rooms for lengths of time the moisture and heat can make the bonds become soft and cause slipping/breaking down and shedding. We sell all the products your client needs for the hair it is no gimmick that the products are tried tested and care for the hair and bonds correctly.
Bonds being cut down
Our bonds from tiny tips to nail tips are all designed to be compact and small but also enough Italian keratin to hold the weight of hair firm and strong for months to come. By cutting the bonds you are giving a much higher chance of bonds breaking down and shedding if the weight of the hair becomes too much for a small amount of keratin then shedding will begin and bonds may break down completely.
Weft hair being cut and not sealed
If weft hair is shedding this can be a result of when the weft is cut into pieces fit as a weave, celebrity weave, micro weave to be fitted to the hair and not sealed on the ends where the cuts are made. Very much like if you cut the seam on a piece of clothing the cotton will gradually keep pulling until you have a huge hole. Weft hair is machine sewn in the same way as a seam on your clothing. If this is cut but not sealed it can from the ends gradually working its way in shed the hair as it is no longer securely held and sealed in place where the cuts are made. There are sealants on the market or you can simply use a little clear nail polish to each side of a cut made to ensure that the hair is sealed and does not shed.
Snapping due to excess heat / incorrect care
Snapping or Breakage is often confused with shedding but it is not the same thing. Shedding is where the hair fully removes from a bond or weft from the root to tip. Snapping or breaking is when hair breaks further down the hair due to damage. Incorrect products can allow the hair extensions to dry out and therefore the cuticles of the hair diminish and once the cortex is reached the hair will snap. Hair extensions cope very well with heat styling but not excessive. Also a daily feed of protein spray is required to keep the cuticles healthy and moisturised especially when using heat tools regularly. Once hair snaps it is irreparable and not a manufacturing fault but a care issue.
My hair extensions are matting / tangling
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare and the use of unsuitable products. Before fitting your client’s hair extensions, use our consultation form to decide which method is suitable (downloadable form available further up the page), and provide the client with Routes’ full comprehensive aftercare guide. Go through all points so the client understands that THEY are responsible for the care of their hair extensions.
Incorrect shampoos or products can leave the hair extensions dry and lacking moisture. When heat is applied, this can damage the cuticles, causing the hair to tangle, become knotty, or even matted. Clients must be taught to brush their hair correctly using a Teezer brush, holding the hair near the roots to avoid putting strain on the bonds or wefts. Regular brushing is key to keeping the hair long-term tangle-free. Indian hair, being thick, can easily become coarse if it dries out, so we recommend daily use of protein spray on dry hair to maintain moisture. Tangling and matting can also occur if the hair is not thoroughly rinsed after washing, as product buildup encourages hair strands to stick together. Hair oils are not recommended, as they can cause hair to bunch and mat. We recommend only Routes protein spray to maintain healthy, nourished hair without buildup. All products we sell are tried, tested, and designed to care for both hair and bonds. If extensions have become dry or tangled, Routes Boost Deep Treatment can restore and smooth cuticles while adding moisture back into the hair cortex.
Not separating the bonds
To keep strand extensions free of tangling or matting, clients must be shown how to separate the bonds regularly. After brushing thoroughly with a Teezer brush, gently use fingers to ensure no strands have wrapped around nearby strands. If they have, carefully separate them and brush through. Regular maintenance appointments are essential to monitor the condition of the hair extensions and the client’s natural hair. Skipping appointments can reduce the longevity of the extensions and fittings.
Visiting spas
During consultation, discuss the DO’s and DONT’s of the client’s lifestyle. Spa visits, especially prolonged exposure to hot steam rooms, can soften the bonds, leading to slipping, bond breakdown, and shedding. Sticky bonds can also adhere to other strands and natural hair, causing severe tangling.
Swimming with extensions
We do not recommend immersing hair extensions in chlorine or sea water. Both can chemically damage the hair, causing dryness, tangling, and matting. If the client swims regularly, advise using a swimming cap with hair secured and not to submerge the hair in water.
Holidays in the sun
UV rays can damage hair just as they damage skin. We advise against having a brand-new set of hair extensions before going on a sunny holiday. Combined with salt water and chlorine, sun exposure can dry out and damage the hair. While in the sun, clients should braid their hair, avoid swimming pools, and wrap their hair in a towel when sunbathing to protect it from harmful rays.
My hair extensions are feeling dry
Hair extensions do not have a direct source of nutrients and moisture supply that our natural hair does, so it is vital that you advise the correct care products for your clients hair extensions. There are many factors that can lead to hair extensions feeling dry so we have listed below the most common problems.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems that occurs in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare product use and incorrect care given to the hair. We advise that before you go ahead and fit your clients hair extensions you use our consultation form to decide which method is suitable (find this download and print form further up the page) followed by giving the client Routes full comprehensive aftercare guide. If you run through all the factors on there so that the client understands that THEY are making the commitment of the aftercare to the hair. Incorrect shampoos and products on the hair extensions can leave them dry and lacking moisture then when heat is applied damages the cuticles causing the hair to tangle together and become knotty and possibly matted. Also you must teach your client how to correctly brush their hair using a Teezer brush and holding the hair in a bunch near to the roots so not putting strain on the bonds or track of the weft. Keeping the hair regularly brushed is key to keeping the hair long term tangle free. As Indian hair is a thick hair texture it can easily become coarse if left to dry out so we recommend daily use of protein spray on dry hair to ensure the hair gets a daily feed of moisture. Tangling and matting can also occur if hair is not thoroughly rinsed of products after washing. Products will build up and make the hair appear greasy and will encourage hair to stick together and become entwined. We also do not recommend using hair oil for this reason. It is a big cause for hair to rub and stick to other strands causing bunching and matting. We recommend only Routes protein spray to keep the hair healthy and fed without oiliness and build up. We sell all the products your client needs for the hair it is no gimmick that the products are tried tested and care for the hair and bonds correctly. If any of the above occurs your hair extensions will benefit from Routes boost deep treatment to restore and smooth the hairs cuticles and add moisture back into the cortex of the hair.
You / Your client coloured/tinted the hair extensions
We do not recommend colouring the hair extensions as they have been through several chemical processing points including colouring already. Colouring can be unpredictable and we strongly advise against bleaching which will in no doubt cause dryness. Using toners or colouring the hair to a darker shade than it already is with a professional hair colourist that understands hair extensions colour differently to natural hair can often work well but dryness can be an outcome and we recommend using Routes extension boost deep treatment directly after colouring to put back the moisture and smooth the hair. Followed by use of Routes aftercare for everyday use. Colouring is entirely at the customers risk and voids the hair of any quality guarantee so please bear this in mind before choosing to colour your Routes hair extensions.
Swimming with extensions
We DO NOT recommend immersing your hair extensions in either chlorine swimming water or sea water. Both can cause a chemical effect on the hair causing dryness, tangling, matting, etc. If your client is a swimmer advise they use a swimming cap with hair securely up and not to get the hair under water.
Holidays in the sun
UV rays can damage the hair just like skin for this reason we don’t advise having a brand new set of hair extensions directly before taking a holiday in the sun. On top of salt water and chlorine being a huge factor in drying out of hair extensions the sun will dry and damage hair in the same way it does to skin if it is not protected. We advise while in the sun to plait the hair, keep out of swimming pools and if sunbathing the client should wrap the hair extensions up in a towel to protect the hair from damaging rays.
Live in a hard water area
If your clients hair extensions feel dry and look dull and the lustre of the colour seems to fade this may well be because the client lives in a hard water area (an area where higher level of alkaline is present in the tap water). If you do have this problem we recommend to check your clients products and use a Routes extension boost treatment to put back in the moisture and shine and suggest your client replace their shower head with a filtered shower head.
Hair turning to dreadlocks
Unfortunately, if your client’s hair has reached this condition, the only resolution is careful removal, which will likely be a lengthy and uncomfortable process. Neglect and poor maintenance are the only causes of dreadlocks. Nobody goes to bed with silky long hair and wakes up with dreadlocks—they develop and worsen over time. Several factors can contribute to hair turning into dreadlocks, which we have listed below.
Incorrect aftercare
One of the biggest problems in the hair extension industry is incorrect aftercare and product use. Before fitting your client’s hair extensions, use our consultation form to decide which method is suitable (downloadable form available further up the page) and provide the client with Routes’ full comprehensive aftercare guide. Go through all points so the client understands that THEY are responsible for maintaining their hair extensions.
Incorrect shampoos or products can leave hair extensions dry and lacking moisture. When heat is applied, this can damage the cuticles, causing tangling, knotting, or matting. Clients must be taught to brush their hair correctly using a Teezer brush while holding the hair near the roots to avoid putting strain on the bonds or wefts. Keeping the hair regularly brushed is key to maintaining tangle-free extensions. Indian hair is thick and can easily become coarse if left to dry out, so daily use of protein spray on dry hair is recommended to provide moisture. Tangling and matting can also occur if the hair is not thoroughly rinsed after washing, as product buildup encourages strands to stick together. Hair oils are not recommended, as they can cause bunching and matting. We recommend only Routes protein spray to keep the hair healthy without oiliness or buildup. All products we sell are tried, tested, and designed to care for both hair and bonds. If hair extensions become dry or tangled, Routes Boost Deep Treatment can restore and smooth the cuticles while adding moisture back into the hair cortex.
Not separating the bonds
To keep strand extensions free of tangling or matting, clients must be shown how to separate the bonds regularly. After brushing thoroughly with a Teezer brush, gently use your fingers around the head to ensure no strands have wrapped around nearby strands. If they have, carefully free the strands and brush through. Regular maintenance appointments are essential to monitor the client’s care and the health of the hair extensions and natural hair. Skipping appointments can reduce the longevity of extensions and fittings.
Visiting spas
During consultation, discuss the DO’s and DONT’s of the client’s lifestyle. Spa visits, especially prolonged exposure to hot steam rooms, can soften the bonds, leading to slipping, bond breakdown, and shedding. Sticky bonds can also adhere to other strands and natural hair, causing severe tangling.
Swimming with extensions
We do not recommend immersing hair extensions in chlorine or sea water. Both can chemically damage the hair, causing dryness, tangling, and matting. If the client swims regularly, advise using a swimming cap with hair securely tied up to avoid submerging the extensions.
Holidays in the sun
UV rays can damage hair just like skin. We do not advise having a brand-new set of hair extensions before going on a sunny holiday. Combined with salt water and chlorine, sun exposure can dry out and damage the hair. While in the sun, clients should braid their hair, avoid swimming pools, and wrap the hair extensions in a towel when sunbathing to protect them from damaging rays.
Consultation Form
This form covers all areas of consultation from assessing if the clients hair is suitable for hair extensions to what method / colour is chosen. Also great for record keeping of your clients data and exactly what your client had fitted for when its time to buy top up hair etc.
Aftercare Form
A comprehensive guide that is absolute paramount to give to clients and make sure they read and understand the content before going ahead with extensions. This covers lifestyle activities to a full guide of aftercare steps. By providing this to your clients you are protecting yourself from the pitfalls of not giving the correct aftercare advice which would leave yourself liable for any problems/comebacks where the client has problems due to incorrect aftercare or activities that are not recommended.
Masterclass For Hair Extension Professionals
