The Truth About Extension Matting (And How to Prevent It)

How to keep your hair smooth, soft, and tangle-free—no matter how long you wear your extensions.

Let’s be honest—hair extensions are an investment. So when they start to mat, tangle, or feel rough… it’s frustrating. The good news? Matting is not a mystery. It’s actually very preventable—with the right care, habits, and products.

Here’s the truth about why extension matting happens—and what to do about it.

What Is Matting, Really?

Matting happens when hair strands (especially the ones in the nape or crown) wrap around each other and form tight tangles. It can start off feeling like a small knot but quickly turns into a stubborn mess—especially if not addressed right away.

When you’re wearing extensions, matting usually shows up:

• At the root near the beads or base

• In the nape of the neck while sleeping

• Or anywhere with excess friction (think hats, scarves, or sweaty workouts)

Common Causes of Extension Matting

• Sleeping with wet hair

• Skipping regular brushing (especially at the root)

• Using heavy oils or silicone-heavy products

• Going too long between move-ups

• Over-washing or using the wrong shampoo/conditioner

• Letting salt, sweat, or chlorine sit too long in your hair

Our Top Tips to Prevent Matting

1. Brush Daily—Yes, Every DayUse a soft-bristle extension brush morning and night, and always section your hair to gently detangle from ends to root. Be sure to get near the base where the extensions are tied in—this keeps the hair from locking together.

2. Never Sleep with Wet HairAlways blow dry before bed. Wet roots = friction + tangling + potential mold. If you’re in a rush, at least get the base and nape dry before your head hits the pillow.

3. Braid It Before BedOne or two loose braids while you sleep can work wonders. It keeps the hair in place and prevents overnight knots. Bonus: It gives you heatless waves in the morning.

4. Use Extension-Safe ProductsWe recommend lightweight, sulfate-free products that don’t build up. Heavy oils or thick conditioners can create residue and cause the hair to stick together. Ask your stylist for your personalized Oribe product plan.

5. Don’t Skip Maintenance AppointmentsGoing too long between move-ups causes tension, slippage, and root tangling. We design your appointment schedule for a reason—stick to it to keep your extensions (and your natural hair) healthy.

What To Do If Your Hair Starts Matting

First, don’t panic—and don’t start yanking.

Use your extension brush and take it section by section. Add a leave-in detangler if needed and slowly work through the area with your fingers first. If it feels stuck at the base, let your stylist know—we’d rather fix it early than wait until it’s damaged.

You invested in gorgeous hair—let’s keep it that way.

Matting isn’t inevitable. With the right care and a little consistency, your extensions can stay smooth, soft, and beautiful between every appointment.

Need personalized product recommendations or brushing demos? Ask your stylist at your next visit—we’re here to help.