Six weeks until Christmas!

Our extension guests have been asking the same thing all week... how do I keep my extensions looking fresh through the holidays?

It comes down to timing your move-up and giving your hair a little extra care as the weather turns. Here's the calendar we'd hand you if you were in my chair.

Find Your Place in Your Cycle

NBR rows are made for a move-up every six to eight weeks. As your own hair grows, the beads sit further from your scalp, and that's when rows start to feel heavier.

Look up the date of your last move-up.

If it was in October, you're due right in the middle of party season. Perfect timing.

If it was earlier, you're due now. Come in soon and your rows will be fresh for every holiday photo.

Week 6: Book Your Move-Up

This is the week to plan. December gets busy, so booking early gives you the pick of dates.

Aim for the first half of December if you can. Your rows will be snug and fresh for the parties and still comfortable in January.

Weeks 5 and 4: Travel and Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is November 26, so routines are about to change. Bring a few basics with you.

  • Pack your own shampoo and conditioner. Hotel bottles tend to be heavy and can build up near your beads.
  • Braid your hair loosely before bed, or use a low ponytail with a soft scrunchie. It keeps tangles away from your nape.
  • Dry your rows completely before heading out in the cold. Dry hair at the beads stays smooth and easy to brush.

Want a refresher? Our post on washing your extensions covers it.

Weeks 3 to 1: Make Your Style Last

You can stretch one great style across several parties.

Start with clean, fully dry hair and use a heat protectant every time. Extension hair is yours to look after, and a little protection keeps it soft for the long haul. We walk through it in protecting your hair for heat styling.

Between events, sleep in a loose braid or a high, soft bun. You'll wake up with waves that only need a touch-up at the ends.

On day two or three, use dry shampoo at your own roots and keep it away from the beads. A quick pass with the iron on the front pieces usually finishes the job.

And a low updo or a sleek pony looks beautiful on the night your rows are freshest. It gives your lengths a rest from heat too.

After the Holidays: A Quiet Reset

Once the parties are over, give your hair an easy week. Use fewer hot tools, add a deep conditioning treatment on the lengths, and notice how your rows feel.

If anything feels tight, itchy or heavy, tell us. We'll sort it out together at your next move-up.

Why the Season Matters

Marin goes from fall into winter with drier heated air indoors and damp, foggy mornings outside. Extension hair doesn't get natural oil from your scalp, so the ends feel that dryness first.

A bit more conditioner on the lengths, a little less washing and lower heat settings will carry you through. Our fall and winter hair care guide goes deeper.

Your Next Step

Not sure when your move-up falls? Call or text us at 415-460-6300 and we'll find the date that keeps your rows fresh right through New Year's.

Who's ready to feel put together for the holidays?