Do Hair Extensions Hurt? What to Expect with New Extensions

Hair extensions are a popular way to transform your look by adding length, volume, highlights, or all of the above. But it’s common to wonder – will it hurt having hair extensions put in? And will they continue to be painful afterward?

It’s normal to have some mild discomfort and sensitivity when first getting extensions. But pain is not typical if they are properly installed by an experienced stylist. Here’s what to expect along with tips for minimizing any pain from new extensions.

Why Might Hair Extensions Hurt at First?

Mild discomfort when you first get hair extensions put in is very common. Here are some reasons why:

• Sensitive scalp – Any tension or weight on your scalp may cause sensitivity if you tend to have a delicate scalp.

• Extension bonds or clips – Adhesives, tapes, beads, rings or clips can cause mild irritation initially.

• Tension on hair – Even proper application puts tension on hair that your scalp needs to adjust to.

• Too tight – Extensions fitted too close to the scalp cause more pronounced pain.

• Heavy extensions – Very thick or dense extensions may strain fine, thin hair.

During the first 3-5 days, your scalp gets used to having extensions attached. You may feel some mild soreness or tenderness similar to having your hair tightly pulled back. But sharp, pronounced, or lasting pain is not normal.

Signs Your Extensions Are Causing Excessive Pain

Mild sensitivity and tenderness often resolves within a few days as your scalp adjusts. But excessive, lasting pain usually indicates a problem with the extensions. See your stylist if you have:

• Intense pain that does not improve after 3 days

• Headaches or migraines after getting extensions

• Tender spots on your scalp that don’t go away

• Pulling sensation when moving your head

• Extensions sticking out from the scalp or feeling tight

• Hair loss or thinning around extension bonds

• Bleeding or sores on the scalp

Don’t suffer through pronounced pain or discomfort. It likely means the extensions need adjustment or removal. Leaving them in will only cause more damage.

How to Minimize Discomfort from New Extensions

There are things you can do to help minimize any pain when first getting extensions:

• Ask your stylist to backcomb hair where bonds/clips will be placed to reduce tension.

• Avoid heavy extensions if you have very fine or thinning hair.

• Take OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen to reduce scalp sensitivity.

• Sleep on your back rather than side to avoid putting pressure on one area.

• Avoid tight hairstyles like ponies that add extra tension.

• Use cool compresses to soothe a tender scalp.

• Get a scalp massage – this can relax the area and increase blood flow.

• Do less washing initially – too much wetting/shampooing can irritate the scalp.

• See your stylist if you have pronounced or lasting pain – don’t try to just live with it.

With a careful application minimizing tension on your natural hair, any discomfort should be mild. But don’t hesitate to have an overly tight or painful application adjusted.

Do Extensions Always Hurt? What About Later On?

Once your scalp adjusts to the extensions in the first few days, you should not have lasting pain or discomfort. Here are signs of a problem after the initial adjustment period:

• Sharp or sudden pain when moving your head certain ways

• Tender or sensitive areas remain on your scalp

• Extensions feel tight and tug on your hair

• You experience headaches frequently

• Develop scalp sores, bleeding or intense itching

• Notice thinning hair around bond points

Ongoing pain can signal the extensions are still too tight or heavy for your natural hair. Other causes include bonding damage from poor installation, developing an allergy to the bonds, or hair trapped in the application that is pulling.

See your stylist promptly if discomfort persists beyond the first week to determine the cause. Leaving painful extensions in will only lead to further damage.

Can Hair Extensions Cause Migraines?

It’s possible to develop migraines from wearing excessively tight hair extensions. Causes include:

• Direct tension on the scalp from bonds placed too close to roots.

• Traction on the hair putting strain on the scalp.

• The weight of very heavy or thick extensions.

• Allergic reaction to metal bonding components.

Migraines should improve after having extensions loosened or removed to correct the source of pressure and tension. See a doctor if migraines persist after adjusting or removing painful extensions.

Will Hair Extensions Damage Your Hair?

When properly installed and cared for, high-quality hair extensions do not inherently damage your natural hair. However, improper application and wear can cause breakage, thinning, and hair loss over time.

Signs of extension damage include:

• Increased shedding and breakage

• Thinning along your hairline and around the bonds

• Development of bald patches on the scalp

• Pain and tender spots on the scalp

To minimize damage:

• Avoid keeping extensions in too long (over 3-4 months)

• Never sleep in temporary extensions like clip-ins

• Have bonds repositioned as your hair grows out

• Use bond repairing treatments like Olaplex

• Avoid harsh brushing, tight styles, and heat damage

See your stylist promptly for adjustment if your extensions are causing visible damage or hair loss.

When to See a Doctor for Hair Extension Pain

See your doctor or dermatologist if you experience:

• Severe scalp pain that won’t resolve
• Infections, bleeding, or sores
• Persistent migraines even after removing extensions
• Hair loss that continues despite removing extensions
• Visible bald spots or areas of thinning hair

A doctor can properly diagnose and treat any underlying scalp conditions caused by damaged extensions. Seek medical care promptly rather than waiting for your symptoms to potentially worsen.

Tips for Pain-Free Hair Extension Maintenance

Once your hair adjusts to the initial application, follow these tips to keep extensions comfortable:

• Avoid overusing extensions: Give your hair breaks from the tension.

• See your stylist regularly: Get bonds repositioned before they damage hair.

• Use nourishing products: Opt for bond repairing, moisturizing products.

• Don’t skip shampoo: Product buildup can irritate the scalp.

• Detangle gently: Use a wet brush or wide-tooth comb.

• Loosen tight styles: Wear hair down or in looser updos.

• Correct any discomfort promptly: Don’t wait if extensions start hurting.

Talk to Your Stylist if Extensions Become Painful

Some mild sensitivity when first having your extensions installed is normal. But pronounced, lasting pain is not. Tell your stylist immediately if your extensions become very painful so they can determine the cause. Leaving damaged or overly tight extensions in will only worsen hair loss and scalp damage. In most cases, a quick adjustment is all that’s needed to resolve any issues and make your extensions feel comfortable again.