Nano ring hair extensions are renowned for their discreet look and lightweight feel. Something else that people rightly associate with nano ring hair pieces, is their low maintenance requirements compared to alternative methods.
However, nano ring extensions being “low maintenance” is not the same thing as them being “no maintenance”. Like any professional hair extension method, nano rings require proper aftercare and regular upkeep to preserve their flawless appearance.
Our experts have therefore put together a rundown of five common nano ring mistakes, complete with proven ways to avoid them. Such mistakes can shorten the lifespan of nano ring extensions and even lead to hair damage over time.
Fortunately, the main issues that tend to arise with nano rings can be relatively easy to fix and prevent, once you’re aware of them.
Mistake 1 – Skipping Maintenance Appointments
One of the biggest misconceptions about nano ring maintenance is that… well, such hair pieces barely need any maintenance. Widespread perceptions still prevail that once nano hair pieces have been fitted, they can be simply left alone for months.
In truth, regular maintenance appointments are essential for nano hair extensions. With human hair growing about 1cm to 1.5cm per month, the nano beads will also move further away from the scalp over time if adjustment isn’t made periodically.
If you leave your nano hair extensions untouched for too long, the weight of the extensions will pull on the new growth. As a result, the risk of matting and tangling at the root will be significantly higher.
The fix: book a maintenance appointment every six to eight weeks. Set a calendar reminder for the next visit the moment you leave the salon. Doing so will help ensure your bonds stay secure and your natural hair remains healthy.
Mistake 2 – Using the Wrong Hair Products
You might imagine at first that using dedicated nano ring products on your hair pieces would surely be a touch… excessive. After all, hair is hair is hair… right?
The reality, though, is that your “usual” haircare products may no longer be suitable once you have nano ring extensions fitted. Nano rings rely on a secure grip between the bead and your hair. So, it’s bad news that certain ingredients can weaken the attachment points and shorten the lifespan of nano ring hair pieces.
Oil-based shampoos, serums, and treatments are especially problematic, given that oils can loosen nano beads’ grip over time. Similarly, the use of heavy silicone-based products may lead to buildup around the bonds, which can make the nano ring extensions feel greasy or cause slippage.
The application of thick and heavy conditioners overly close to the roots can also weaken the attachments and heighten the likelihood of the beads slipping.
The fix: always use a sulphate-free shampoo that cleanses gently without stripping moisture, thereby protecting the bonds. Proven sulphate-free shampoos that are suitable for nano ring hair pieces include such options as Beauty Works’ Pearl Nourishing Argan Oil Shampoo and Remi Cachet’s Hair Extension Shampoo.
When conditioning, apply lightweight products to the mid-lengths and ends only, avoiding the bead area entirely.
Mistake 3 – Sleeping Without Protecting Extensions
Responsible nano ring sleep care is an often-overlooked topic. Nonetheless, neglecting this aspect is one of the most common nano ring mistakes.
Sleeping with your hair loose may cause your nano ring extensions to rub against your pillow throughout the night. Cotton pillowcases create friction, which can lead to knots, dryness, and tangling around the bonds.
Loose hair can also catch and pull during your sleep. As a result, extra tension may be placed on the extension attachments and your natural hair.
The fix: before bed, brush your hair thoroughly, followed by securing it in a loose braid or plait. For the best possible protection, switch from a cotton pillowcase to a silk or satin one. This will help keep the strands controlled and reduce movement while you sleep.
Mistake 4 – DIY Removal
Nano ring removal should never be done on an “amateur” basis, no matter how tempting this may be.
Sure, you might like the idea of saving the money you’d have otherwise spent on a salon appointment, by trying to “pop” the beads open yourself whenever you fancy a change.
However, without the correct pliers and technique, there is a high chance that you will snap your natural hair or cause unnecessary breakage. Such “DIY” attempts at nano ring removal can also exert stress on the wider scalp.
To fix: pay the approximately £50 to £100 that a professional nano-ring removal appointment in a salon typically costs in the UK.
The process of having your nano ring extensions taken out by a skilled and experienced pro will usually take between one and two hours, depending on the amount of hair fitted.
Mistake 5 – Choosing an Inexperienced Technician
Even high-quality nano ring hair extensions can look poor if they aren’t fitted correctly.
An inexperienced nano ring technician may place the extensions too close to the scalp, causing discomfort and tension. Substandard placement may also make the bonds visible, especially when you’re wearing your hair up.
Placing your trust in a less-than-capable nano ring technician may also mean they choose the wrong bead size for your hair type and density. Beads that are too small or too large might slip more easily, or they may fail to hold the extension securely.
To fix: before you arrange an appointment with a particular nano ring technician, take the time to check their qualifications, online reviews, and before-and-after photos of previous clients.
Ask the salon professional what training and experience they have specifically in the use of nano ring hair pieces; being proficient and seasoned with other hair extension methods might not translate directly.
Conclusion
Maintaining gorgeous hair doesn’t have to feel like a chore. The great news is that the most common nano ring extension mistakes are easily avoidable with the right habits and professional support.
By adhering to our nano ring extension tips such as attending regular maintenance appointments, using extension-friendly haircare products, protecting your hair while you sleep, avoiding DIY removal, and choosing an experienced technician, you can keep your nano ring hair pieces looking natural and healthy for much longer.
Properly caring for your nano ring extensions can extend their lifespan to as much as 12 months or more. Indeed, investing in a high standard of nano ring maintenance will go a long way to saving time, money, and damage in the longer term.
