Best Oils for Maintaining Hair Extensions

Alright, let’s be real – getting hair extensions is an investment! And once you’ve got those gorgeous, voluminous locks, you want them to look their best for as long as possible. Trust me, I’ve been there, staring at my beautiful new extensions and wondering, “How do I keep these looking salon-fresh and not like a dry, frizzy mess?” That’s where the best oils for maintaining hair extensions come into play. Choosing the right product can make all the difference, helping to keep your extensions hydrated, tangle-free, and shiny, mimicking the natural oils that your scalp usually provides. After trying countless products and doing a deep dive into what truly works, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you nourish and protect your hair extensions, ensuring they stay healthy and blend seamlessly with your natural hair.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Nexxus Ultra Lightweight Hair Oil Repair & Nourish for…	View on Amazon
	everlong Untangle Leave-in Conditioner Detangler Spray for…	View on Amazon
	MAREE Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair with Keratin, Biotin &…	View on Amazon
	Wild Growth Hair Oil 4 Oz	View on Amazon
	Goldie Locks Signature Serum, Strengthens & Revitalizes,…	View on Amazon
	HerStyler Hair Repair Serum – Argan Oil Hair Serum for…	View on Amazon
	OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco, Cold-Pressed Argan…	View on Amazon
	Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, Concentrated High Shine Oil,…	View on Amazon
	African Pride Feel It Formula Hair Strengthening Oil –…	View on Amazon
	OGX Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Oil…	View on Amazon

Nexxus Ultra Lightweight Hair Oil Repair & Nourish for…

When you’re looking for an oil that won’t weigh down your extensions, the Nexxus Ultra Lightweight Hair Oil is a fantastic choice. Infused with Rose of Jericho oil, this restorative oil is designed to intensely nourish while remaining incredibly light on the hair. It’s like a drink of water for dry strands, sealing in moisture and boosting shine without any greasy residue. I especially appreciate its StyleProtect Technology which offers visible damage repair and ensures your style lasts longer with excellent humidity and frizz control. Plus, with 450º heat protection, it’s a great pre-styling step.

• Key Features:
  • Ultra-lightweight formula infused with Rose of Jericho oil.
  • StyleProtect Technology + Dual-Rose Complex for damage repair.
  • Offers 72H humidity shield and 48H frizz control.
  • Provides 450º heat protection.
  • Designed for effortless styling and weightless protection.
• Pros:
  • Extremely lightweight, perfect for not weighing down extensions.
  • Excellent for frizz control and humidity protection.
  • Offers significant heat protection.
  • Leaves hair shiny and nourished without greasiness.
• Cons:
  • May not be intensive enough for extremely dry or coarse extensions.
  • Scent might not appeal to everyone.
• Best for: Fine to medium hair extensions, those prone to frizz, and daily heat styling.
  User feedback summary: Users love how this oil adds shine and smoothness without making their extensions feel heavy or oily, making it a go-to for daily maintenance.

everlong Untangle Leave-in Conditioner Detangler Spray for…

While technically a spray, this Everlong product is packed with oils and acts as a fantastic multi-use treatment for extensions. Developed by professionals with extensive experience in the hair extension industry, it’s designed specifically with extension care in mind. The blend of Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Keratin Protein works wonders to detangle, nourish, and strengthen your hair extensions. It protects against dryness and damage, helping to repair weak points and keep your extensions looking healthy. It’s incredibly versatile, functioning as a leave-in conditioner, detangler, and even a heat protectant.

• Key Features:
  • Contains Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Keratin Protein.
  • Multi-use formula: detangling spray, leave-in conditioner, heat protectant.
  • Moisturizes the scalp and protects against dryness and damage.
  • Strengthens hair follicles and helps repair weak points.
  • Trusted by hair extension professionals.
• Pros:
  • Excellent detangling properties, crucial for extensions.
  • Provides deep nourishment and strengthening benefits.
  • Versatile product, simplifying your routine.
  • Protects against heat damage.
• Cons:
  • Spray format might not feel as “oily” as a traditional oil for some.
  • Those seeking only a pure oil might prefer other options.
• Best for: All extension types needing a powerful detangler and all-in-one treatment, especially those prone to knots.
  User feedback summary: Many find this spray indispensable for easily brushing through their extensions, praising its ability to leave hair soft, smooth, and much more manageable.

MAREE Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair with Keratin, Biotin &…

The MAREE Hair Oil is a true workhorse for revitalizing dry and damaged hair extensions, promising to return shine and softness. It’s a fantastic anti-frizz hair serum that keeps locks silky and hydrated without weighing them down. The formula includes potent ingredients like argan oil, keratin, and biotin, which nourish and restore the structure of your extensions. It also functions as a detangler and provides a “Wondersilk” gloss treatment, shielding hair from heat and sun. What’s great is that it works for all hair types, including curly extensions, without straightening them.

• Key Features:
  • Hydrating formula with Argan Oil, Keratin, and Biotin.
  • Acts as an anti-frizz serum, boosting shine and silkiness.
  • Detangles hair for easy styling.
  • Provides heat and sun protection.
  • Suitable for all hair types, including curly and straight extensions.
• Pros:
  • Effectively tackles frizz and adds significant shine.
  • Detangles beautifully, making styling easier.
  • Offers environmental protection against heat and sun.
  • Nourishes and strengthens with key ingredients.
• Cons:
  • Some users might find the texture a bit thicker than other lightweight oils.
  • Not specifically marketed for “growth” despite containing biotin (which is more for natural hair growth/strength).
• Best for: Extensions prone to frizz, heat styling, and those needing a boost of shine and hydration.
  User feedback summary: Customers are impressed by its ability to tame frizz and bring a noticeable softness and luster to their extensions, saying it makes them look much healthier.

Wild Growth Hair Oil 4 Oz

Wild Growth Hair Oil is a cult classic, celebrated for its ability to promote thick, long hair growth. While extensions don’t “grow,” this oil’s nourishing properties can be highly beneficial for the natural hair underneath and for keeping the extensions themselves incredibly soft and pliable. Its concentrated formula is known for softening and detangling hair, which is a huge plus for extensions. It can also help to stretch relaxers for those with chemically treated natural hair, minimizing tension on the extension bonds. Remember to follow directions carefully as it’s quite potent.

• Key Features:
  • Concentrated formula for softening and detangling.
  • Helps reduce blow-drying time.
  • Known for promoting thick, long natural hair growth.
  • Stretches relaxers (beneficial for natural hair under extensions).
• Pros:
  • Deeply softens and conditions extensions.
  • Excellent for detangling and improving manageability.
  • Can contribute to the health of your natural hair.
• Cons:
  • Very concentrated, so a little goes a long way and overuse can lead to greasiness.
  • Scent is strong and herbal, which isn’t for everyone.
  • Primarily marketed for natural hair growth, so direct extension benefits are softening/detangling.
• Best for: Extensions needing intense softening and detangling, and users also looking to nourish their natural hair underneath.
  User feedback summary: Devoted users praise its ability to make hair incredibly soft and manageable, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing tangles and adding a healthy sheen.

Goldie Locks Signature Serum, Strengthens & Revitalizes,…

Goldie Locks Signature Serum is a luxurious and sophisticated option specifically formulated with extensions in mind, offering intense nourishment without any heavy feel. Its lightweight and fast-absorbing formula, enriched with Marula oil, white truffle, rose water, vanilla bean, biotin, and ginseng, delivers deep hydration, prevents damage, and enhances texture. It’s fantastic for calming frizz and flyaways, restoring a glossy shine, and protecting against breakage, heat, and UV damage. This serum is designed to strengthen your extensions and keep them looking beautifully maintained.

• Key Features:
  • Luxuriously lightweight and fast-absorbing formula.
  • Infused with Marula oil, white truffle, rose water, vanilla bean, biotin, and ginseng.
  • Delivers deep hydration and intense nourishment.
  • Calms frizz, tames flyaways, and restores glossy shine.
  • Protects against breakage, heat, and UV damage.
• Pros:
  • Non-greasy and absorbs quickly, ideal for extensions.
  • Comprehensive protection against environmental stressors.
  • High-quality ingredients provide intense nourishment.
  • Leaves hair soft, smooth, and radiant with a pleasant fragrance.
• Cons:
  • Premium price point compared to some other options.
  • Might be too light for very thick or extremely dry extension types needing heavier oils.
• Best for: All types of hair extensions, especially those seeking a premium, lightweight, and protective serum with a luxurious feel.
  User feedback summary: Users rave about its non-greasy feel and the immediate improvement in shine and softness, often noting that it makes their extensions look and feel much healthier.

HerStyler Hair Repair Serum – Argan Oil Hair Serum for…

If you’re constantly battling frizz and looking for a lightweight solution, the HerStyler Hair Repair Serum is a strong contender. This argan oil-based serum is specifically designed to smooth strands without weighing them down, leaving extensions looking polished, soft, and manageable with a natural finish. It’s excellent for taming flyaways and split ends, providing long-lasting frizz control. Being safe for color-treated hair, it’s a versatile choice for many extension users, enhancing shine and softness without dulling color. It also boasts a mild, fresh scent that isn’t overpowering.

• Key Features:
  • Lightweight and non-greasy argan oil formula.
  • Provides long-lasting frizz control and helps tame flyaways/split ends.
  • Works on all hair types, including color-treated and processed hair.
  • Enhances shine and softness without dulling color.
  • Features a mild, fresh scent.
• Pros:
  • Excellent for daily frizz control on extensions.
  • Very lightweight and won’t build up or cause greasiness.
  • Safe for extensions that are color-treated.
  • Leaves a natural, polished look.
• Cons:
  • May not provide enough deep conditioning for extremely dry extensions.
  • Heat protectant properties are implied but not explicitly stated with a temperature rating.
• Best for: Extensions prone to frizz and flyaways, daily light styling, and those who prefer a subtle scent.
  User feedback summary: Customers frequently mention its effectiveness in smoothing frizz and adding a beautiful shine without feeling heavy, making it a staple in their hair care routine.

OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco, Cold-Pressed Argan…

The OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a popular and accessible choice that delivers fantastic results for hair extensions. This penetrating hair oil treatment, made with cold-pressed Moroccan argan oil, deeply nourishes and renews each strand. It’s brilliant for strengthening and restoring dry, brittle, or over-processed extensions, improving elasticity and resilience. What I love is how it seals in nutrients, delivers silky smoothness and radiant shine, and is lightweight enough for daily use on all hair types, including color-treated extensions. It also helps to tame frizz and flyaways for a sleek finish.

• Key Features:
  • Penetrating treatment with cold-pressed Moroccan argan oil.
  • Strengthens and restores dry, brittle, or over-processed hair.
  • Improves elasticity, resilience, and delivers radiant shine.
  • Lightweight, non-greasy, suitable for daily use on all hair types.
  • Paraben-free and sulfated-surfactants free.
• Pros:
  • Very effective at restoring shine and smoothness to extensions.
  • Accessible price point and widely available.
  • Nourishes and strengthens without weighing hair down.
  • Good for taming frizz and flyaways.
• Cons:
  • The scent, a citrus-floral, might not be universally loved.
  • Not specifically designed for heat protection (though argan oil offers some natural protection).
• Best for: Dry, brittle, or over-processed extensions needing an everyday boost of hydration, shine, and strength.
  User feedback summary: Users consistently praise its ability to make their hair feel incredibly soft, smooth, and much more manageable, often highlighting its pleasant scent and value for money.

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, Concentrated High Shine Oil,…

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil is a powerhouse for maintaining hair extensions, especially if they’ve undergone any chemical processing or if your natural hair is prone to damage. While most oils focus on surface benefits, Olaplex’s patented Bond-Building Technology actually repairs and strengthens hair from the inside out. This concentrated, high-shine oil offers an incredible 125% increase in shine, 72-hour frizz control, and a significant 77% reduction in breakage. It also provides 450°F/232°C heat protection and maintains color vibrancy, making it an all-around winner for extension longevity.

• Key Features:
  • Patented Bond-Building Technology for repair and strengthening.
  • Concentrated high shine oil (125% increase in shine).
  • Offers 72-hour frizz control and humidity resistance.
  • 77% reduction in breakage and strengthens hair.
  • Provides 450°F/232°C heat protection and maintains color vibrancy.
• Pros:
  • Actively repairs and strengthens hair at a molecular level.
  • Delivers exceptional shine and frizz control.
  • Offers superior heat protection, essential for extensions.
  • Very concentrated, so a tiny amount is effective.
• Cons:
  • Higher price point per ounce due to its concentrated, active formula.
  • Some users might expect a thicker oil texture given its benefits, but it’s quite lightweight.
• Best for: All types of hair extensions, particularly those that are chemically processed, prone to breakage, or frequently heat-styled, and for users seeking deep repair.
  User feedback summary: Many users consider this a holy grail product, remarking on the dramatic improvement in their hair’s strength, shine, and overall health, especially for color-treated or damaged extensions.

African Pride Feel It Formula Hair Strengthening Oil –…

For those with textured extensions, or who want to truly nourish their natural hair underneath while caring for extensions, the African Pride Feel It Formula Hair Strengthening Oil is a fantastic choice. Infused with peppermint and rosemary oils, this product not only targets weak, brittle strands to reduce breakage and restore moisture but also stimulates roots to promote healthier natural hair growth. It’s excellent for soothing and hydrating the scalp, delivering an invigorating sensation. For extensions, it defines curls and coils while smoothing frizz and sealing in moisture, without harsh additives like parabens or sulfates.

• Key Features:
  • Targets weak, brittle strands to reduce breakage and restore moisture.
  • Infused with peppermint and rosemary oils to stimulate roots.
  • Soothes and hydrates the scalp, providing a cooling sensation.
  • Defines curls and coils, tames frizz, and seals in moisture.
  • Free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and petrolatum.
• Pros:
  • Excellent for textured hair extensions and natural hair.
  • Actively strengthens and reduces breakage.
  • Invigorating and soothing for the scalp.
  • Free from many undesirable chemicals.
• Cons:
  • Strong herbal scent from peppermint and rosemary might not be for everyone.
  • May be too rich for very fine, straight extensions if over-applied.
• Best for: Textured hair extensions (curly, coily) needing strengthening, frizz control, and scalp nourishment; also beneficial for the natural hair underneath.
  User feedback summary: Customers with textured hair absolutely love how it strengthens their strands, defines their curls, and leaves their scalp feeling refreshed and hydrated, all without feeling greasy.

OGX Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Oil…

Another great option from OGX, the Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Oil, is a deeply hydrating treatment designed to repair damage and revive locks. This penetrating hair oil is perfect for dry, coarse hair extensions, helping to transform them into silky smooth perfection. It’s packed with coconut oil to add luster, shine, and softness, along with vanilla bean extract and essence of tiare for a delightful tropical scent. Ideal for medium to coarse textures, it excels at calming frizz and taming flyaways, leaving extensions feeling nourished, renewed, and smelling fantastic.

• Key Features:
  • Hydrates dry, coarse hair to transform it into silky smooth perfection.
  • Contains coconut oil, vanilla bean extract, and essence of tiare.
  • Ideal for medium to coarse-textured, medium to dry hair types.
  • Helps calm frizz and tame flyaways.
  • Paraben-free and sulfate-free surfactant system.
• Pros:
  • Deeply nourishing for dry and coarse extensions.
  • Effectively calms frizz and adds shine.
  • Leaves a lovely, tropical coconut scent.
  • Good value for its effectiveness.
• Cons:
  • May be too heavy for very fine or oily extensions if not applied sparingly.
  • Not specifically for heat protection.
• Best for: Dry, coarse, or thicker hair extensions needing intensive hydration, frizz control, and a boost of tropical scent.
  User feedback summary: Users adore its ability to deeply moisturize and soften their dry extensions, noting the beautiful shine and the pleasant, long-lasting coconut scent.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best oils for maintaining hair extensions, it really comes down to what your specific extensions need. If you’re struggling with frizz and flyaways that make your extensions look messy, the HerStyler Hair Repair Serum and MAREE Hair Oil for Frizzy Hair are top contenders, both delivering excellent smoothing benefits. For those concerned about heat damage from styling, Nexxus Ultra Lightweight Hair Oil, Goldie Locks Signature Serum, and especially Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil offer robust protection, with Olaplex also providing deep repair.

If lightweight hydration without any greasiness is your priority, Nexxus and Goldie Locks are superb choices that absorb quickly. However, if your extensions are very dry or coarse and need a more intensive moisture boost, the OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco or the OGX Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Oil will likely be more effective, though apply sparingly to avoid weighing them down. The Wild Growth Hair Oil is also fantastic for deep conditioning and detangling, but its concentrated nature requires careful application.

For textured or curly extensions, African Pride Feel It Formula Hair Strengthening Oil and the MAREE Hair Oil are specifically formulated to define curls, manage frizz, and strengthen strands. And let’s not forget the everlong Untangle Leave-in Conditioner Detangler Spray, which is a fantastic multi-tasker that provides immediate detangling benefits alongside nourishment, making your brushing routine much smoother. Remember, while some oils help with natural hair growth (like Wild Growth and African Pride), their primary benefit for extensions is conditioning and strengthening.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right oil for your extensions is a bit like finding the perfect pair of jeans – it has to fit just right!

If you prioritize active repair and unparalleled protection, especially for color-treated or heat-styled extensions, the Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil is truly in a league of its own. It’s an investment, but the internal strengthening and protection it offers are hard to beat.

For those seeking a luxurious, all-around protective serum that’s feather-light and deeply nourishing, Goldie Locks Signature Serum stands out. It’s excellent for daily use and addresses a wide range of concerns from frizz to UV damage.

If you need a reliable, everyday hydrating and shine-boosting oil that’s accessible and effective for most extension types, the OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco is a consistent winner. It delivers great results without breaking the bank.

And for the essential task of detangling and making brushing easy, especially for tangled extensions, the everlong Untangle Leave-in Conditioner Detangler Spray is a must-have that genuinely simplifies your routine.

Ultimately, the best oil for maintaining hair extensions will depend on your extension type, lifestyle, and specific concerns. Consider starting with a lightweight option and adjust as needed to keep your extensions looking fabulous!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Why do I need to use oils for maintaining hair extensions?
A1: Hair extensions, especially human hair ones, don’t receive natural oils from your scalp like your own hair does. Over time, they can become dry, brittle, and prone to tangling and frizz. Using the best oils for maintaining hair extensions helps to rehydrate, nourish, add shine, reduce frizz, detangle, and protect them from environmental damage, significantly extending their lifespan and keeping them looking natural and healthy.

Q2: How often should I apply oil to my hair extensions?
A2: The frequency depends on your extension type, how dry they are, and the product you’re using. Generally, 2-3 times a week is a good starting point. For very dry extensions, you might apply a small amount daily, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Lighter oils like Nexxus or Goldie Locks can often be used more frequently without weighing hair down.

Q3: Can I use any hair oil on my extensions?
A3: Not all hair oils are suitable. You should avoid heavy oils, especially near the bonds or roots, as they can loosen adhesives or cause slippage for certain extension types. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that specifically state they are safe for extensions or are known for their quick absorption. Products like the ones reviewed here are formulated to be beneficial without causing issues.

Q4: Will hair oil make my extensions greasy?
A4: If applied correctly and using the right type of oil, no. The key is to use a very small amount (start with 1-2 drops) and focus application on the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the roots or attachment points. Lightweight formulas, like Nexxus or Goldie Locks, are designed to absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Over-application or using heavy oils can lead to greasiness.

Q5: What are the best types of oils for maintaining hair extensions?
A5: Argan oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil (used sparingly), and marula oil are all excellent choices for extensions due to their nourishing and moisturizing properties. Products often blend these with other beneficial ingredients like keratin or biotin. Look for “cold-pressed” or “renewing” in product descriptions for higher quality oils.

Q6: Can I use hair oil if I have tape-in or bonded extensions?
A6: Yes, but with extreme caution around the attachment points. For tape-ins or bonded extensions, it’s crucial to avoid applying oil directly to the adhesive or bonds, as oil can break down the bond and cause the extensions to slip or fall out. Apply oils only from the mid-shaft down to the ends of the extension hair, being mindful of where your bonds are located.

Q7: Do these oils help with detangling hair extensions?
A7: Absolutely! Many of the best oils for maintaining hair extensions, such as the everlong Untangle Spray and MAREE Hair Oil, are excellent detanglers. They lubricate the hair strands, making it easier to comb through knots and reduce breakage, which is vital for preserving the quality and longevity of your extensions.

Q8: Can hair oils protect my extensions from heat styling?
A8: Some hair oils offer heat protection, but not all. Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil, Nexxus Ultra Lightweight Hair Oil, and Goldie Locks Signature Serum explicitly state heat protection benefits up to high temperatures. Always check the product description for this feature. If your oil doesn’t offer heat protection, it’s best to use a dedicated heat protectant spray before styling with hot tools.