The Asantey
Hair Care Guide

How to Wash Your Extensions

Proper washing is the foundation of long-lasting hair extensions. The goal is to cleanse without stripping — removing product buildup and sweat while preserving the hair’s natural oils and moisture.

Step-by-Step Washing Routine

1. Detangle first. Using a wide-tooth comb or paddle brush, gently detangle from tip to root before getting the hair wet. Never detangle wet hair aggressively.
2. Wet the hair with lukewarm water. Hot water opens the cuticle and can cause frizz. Run water in a downward direction (root to tip) to keep cuticles smooth.
3. Apply sulphate-free shampoo. Work it through gently with your fingers in a downward motion. Avoid rough circular scrubbing, which causes tangling.
4. Rinse thoroughly. Leftover shampoo is a common cause of dryness and dull hair. Rinse until the water runs completely clear.
5. Deep condition every wash. Apply a moisture-rich conditioner from mid-shaft to tips. Leave for 5–10 minutes (or use a heat cap for deeper penetration), then rinse.
6. Air-dry when possible. Gently squeeze excess water with a microfibre towel — never rub. Air-drying preserves the hair’s natural texture and extends lifespan significantly.

Heat Styling Guide

Cambodian raw and virgin hair handles heat beautifully — but like any hair, repeated high heat without protection will cause long-term damage. The key is protection and moderation.

Temperature Guidelines

• Fine or wavy textures: 150–180°C (300–360°F)
• Standard straight or wave: 180–200°C (360–390°F)
• Thicker or curly textures: 200–230°C (390–445°F)

Heat Styling Rules

• Always apply a quality heat protectant before using any heat tool.
• Never apply heat to wet or damp hair — always style on dry hair.
• Use a single pass with your flat iron rather than going over sections repeatedly.
• Allow the hair to cool fully before brushing or styling further.
• Limit heat styling to 2–3 times per week for maximum longevity.

How to Make Your Hair Last 3–5 Years

The lifespan of your extensions is directly proportional to how well you care for them. Here are the four pillars of long-lasting Cambodian hair:

1. Moisture is Everything

Unlike your natural hair, extensions don’t receive moisture from your scalp. You must replace this manually. Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner or hair oil (argan, jojoba, or castor oil work well) regularly — especially on the ends, which are the oldest and most vulnerable part of the hair.

2. Protect at Night

Cotton pillowcases cause friction and moisture loss overnight. Switch to a satin or silk pillowcase, or wrap your hair in a satin bonnet or scarf before sleeping. This one change alone can add months to your hair’s lifespan.

3. Handle Gently

Always detangle from tip to root using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Never pull through knots — work them out slowly. Treat your extensions as you would treat your finest clothing.

4. Regular Deep Conditioning

Monthly deep conditioning treatments using a protein-moisture balance mask will keep your hair strong, elastic, and resistant to breakage. Pay particular attention to the ends — trim any split ends as they appear rather than letting them travel up the shaft.

Storage Tips

How you store your hair when you’re not wearing it matters more than most people realise. Poor storage leads to tangling, matting, and premature wear.

• Always store completely dry. Damp hair stored in a bag or box leads to mildew, odour, and irreversible damage.
• Loosely braid before storing. A loose single or double braid keeps the hair organised and tangle-free.
• Use a satin or silk bag. Silk minimises friction and static, keeping the hair smooth and manageable.
• Avoid direct sunlight and heat. UV rays fade colour and weaken the hair shaft over time. Store in a cool, dry place.
• Keep bundles and closures separate. Store each bundle individually to prevent them matting together.