What is Matting & How to Avoid It?

 Matting is a common problem faced by hair extension users. It looks very messy, ruins your hair extension and is difficult to resolve. Here is a small guide that explains matting for the different hair extension types and how you can avoid it:-

Matting

Humans shed hundreds of hairs every day, and new hairs grow to replace these. Hair extensions, especially the braided kind that is sewn through the natural hair, depend on this hair for support. Now when there is shedding of hair, some tangles are created at the root of the hair extension. If this hair is not untangled, it causes matting over time. 

Another cause of matting might be improper setting of hair extensions. This can happen because the clips were not applied evenly, or because the hair was not woven well. 

Matting can also be caused if you sleep with your hair left open. As you toss and turn in the night, your hair strands get tangled up with each other. A couple of nights of having your hair tangled are enough to cause matting. Also, some people sleep without drying their wet hair. This is very bad for the hair, and may cause tangles that have to be cut out. Matting may also be caused by failing to comb your hair regularly. 

How to Avoid Matting?

Hair extensions need far more care than regular hair. Human hair secretes its own oils, and remains healthy with little or no outside help. However, you must provide the necessary nutrients and oils to maintain your hair extensions. Apply oil twice a week before you shampoo. You can also try applying oil to your hair before you sleep. Well-oiled hair will reduce tangling and friction. 

Sleep on a pillow that does not encourage hair friction, for example a satin pillow. This will reduce the tangles in your hair the next morning. Also, never sleep with hair left open. Always braid it securely, or tie a bandanna around it to protect it from tangling. 

Wash your hair in the morning as opposed to at night. This gives your hair the entire day to dry out. The hair roots take the most amount of time to dry, and they are also the most susceptible to matting. There will be far fewer tangles if your hair is dry when you sleep.

Comb your hair gently every day to maintain your hair extensions. An anti-static comb is recommended to prevent friction and tangling. If tangling is already present (and this is likely) use a small eyebrow comb and brush to stroke gently upwards at the roots of the tangle. This will remove stray shed hair and help resolve the tangles without causing damage to your hair extensions. If you use bonded hair extensions, the shed hair will typically be stuck to the bonds and will be impossible to remove. In this case, use your fingers to gently comb it away and keep it in line with the rest of your hair.

Sometimes in worse case scenarios it’s necessary to completely remove the hair extension to sort out the matting. If you are not comfortable with doing this at home, visit the salon. When you reapply the hair extensions, use a flat iron to help straighten your roots, which will help you better secure your hair extension and avoid future matting.

Using gentle shampoos and conditioners is important to maintain your hair extensions. Also, be careful when you swim as hair extensions are easily damaged by chlorine or salt water. Remember to never tug on your hair extension as this can be very damaging. Hair extension caring is an easy task if you go about it the right way.