What is a Mesh Integration System?
How does mesh integration work?
Before diving into the care routine, it’s helpful to understand what a mesh integration system is. They are a game-changer for individuals experiencing hair loss, thinning hair or even trichotillomania, offering a non-surgical, seamless solution to enhance volume and restore confidence. Unlike traditional wigs or extensions, mesh integration involves securing a lightweight, stretchable mesh base to your natural hair, creating a foundation for attaching extension hair or a topper.
This system allows your natural hair to grow freely underneath while the integrated hair blends seamlessly, creating a natural, full look.
However, like any hair replacement system, proper care is essential to keep it looking and feeling its best. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to maintaining your mesh integration system, ensuring its longevity and appearance remain flawless.
Why Proper Care Matters
Although mesh integration systems are durable and designed to last, they still require regular maintenance. Neglecting proper care can lead to tangling, matting, hair breakage, and a less realistic appearance over time. Caring for your system also ensures that both the mesh and the attached hair maintain their integrity, so your style stays on point for longer.
Step 1: Brushing Your Mesh Integration System
It’s important to brush your mesh integration system daily to prevent tangling and matting. Use a soft-bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. Here’s how to do it safely:
Start at the ends: Gently brush from the ends of the hair and work your way up to the roots. This reduces strain on the mesh and prevents unnecessary pulling.
Hold the roots: Use your other hand to hold the hair near the roots while brushing to avoid tugging on the mesh or your natural hair.
Avoid tugging: Never yank or pull on knots. If you encounter tangles, use your fingers to gently separate them before continuing to brush.
Step 2: Washing Your Hair
Washing your system is essential for removing dirt, oil, and product buildup. However, because the mesh integration system includes both real and artificial hair, you’ll need to be gentle. Follow these steps for effective cleaning:
Wait Before Washing: Allow 48 hours after your hair extensions are fitted before washing them to let the wefts settle properly.
Shower Wash Only: Always wash your extensions upright in the shower. Avoid bending over a sink or bathtub to prevent tangling.
Use Gentle Products: Choose specialist hair extension shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate-free, have a low pH, and contain no harsh chemicals to maintain the integrity of your extensions.
Limit Wash Frequency: Wash your extensions 2-3 times per week at most to prevent over-drying or weakening the bonds.
Detangle First: Before washing, gently detangle your extensions with a wide-tooth comb or a special extension brush.
Apply a Hair Mask Weekly: Use a nourishing conditioning hair mask once a week. Leave it on for about 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly to keep your extensions hydrated and healthy.
Dry Carefully: Always apply a heat protection spray or serum before drying. Avoid using the hottest setting on your hairdryer. Section your hair and dry one section at a time with a round vent bristle brush or a hair extension brush for a smooth finish.
Note: Swimming is highly discouraged as it can cause matting and tangles in your hair.
Step 3: Drying Your Mesh Integration System
After washing, it’s essential to dry your system properly to prevent the mesh from retaining moisture, which can lead to mold or odor.
Use a microfiber towel to gently blot your hair dry. Avoid rubbing or twisting the hair, as this can damage the mesh and cause tangles.
Whenever possible, let your mesh integration system air-dry. If you’re in a hurry and need to use a blow dryer, make sure to use a cool setting to prevent heat damage.
Step 4: Styling Your Mesh Integration System
While mesh integration systems are versatile and can be styled similarly to natural hair, they require some extra care when using heat.
Apply heat protectant: Before using any heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray to safeguard the synthetic or natural hair from damage.
Low heat only: Use low-heat settings on curling irons, flat irons, or blow dryers to avoid damaging both the hair and the mesh itself.
Avoid tight ponytails initially to reduce stress on extensions.
Step 5: Protecting Your Mesh Integration System at Night
Just like your natural hair, your mesh integration system can experience wear and tear if not properly protected while you sleep.
Gently tie your hair up in a loose bun or braid to prevent tangling overnight.
Use a silk or satin scarf to wrap your hair, or sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction while you sleep. This helps preserve the integrity of both the hair and the mesh.
Step 6: Avoiding Product Buildup
While styling products can help you achieve your desired look, excessive use can lead to buildup on both the hair and the mesh. To avoid this:
Opt for lightweight, water-based styling products that won’t clog the mesh.
Minimize using heavy oils or creams that can weigh down the hair and make the system more difficult to clean.
Step 7: Regular Salon Maintenance
In addition to your at-home care routine, it’s important to visit your salon regularly for maintenance.
Return every 5-8 weeks to maintain extensions and natural hair health.
Avoid exceeding 8 weeks between appointments to prevent damage.
We have many videos and resources on our YouTube Chanel about hair , hairloss and many solutions to help navigate this challenging problem.
Caring for your mesh integration system doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your system stays in top shape, looking as natural and beautiful as the day it was installed. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of the system but also keeps you feeling confident and comfortable with your hair.
If you have any questions about maintaining your mesh integration system, reach out to us at zoya@zoyag.com or reserve a consultation appointment.
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