Microlinks Maintenance: Here’s All You Need To Know

by To All My Black Girls on June 06, 2024

Microlinks have become an increasingly popular choice of hair extensions among many women and it's not hard to see why. They are versatile, low maintenance, and blend in seamlessly with your real hair–What's not to love?  


However, while microlinks may not require the same level of care as your natural hair, they still require frequent maintenance to help them last longer and also keep your natural hair healthy. In this post, we'll be discussing how to care for your microlinks and maintain them for optimal benefits.

What Are Microlinks?

Microlinks are hair extensions that are added to the hair using microbeads and tubes. The extensions are threaded through the beads along with small sections of your natural hair, and the beads are then clamped down to secure the extensions exposing most of the hair and creating a more natural look. Microlinks can often be made with a wide variety of hair textures but if you have textured curls and coils, it is best to opt for kinky curly microlinks if you want something that will seamlessly blend in with your natural hair.

How Long Do Microlinks Last?

Microlinks can last between 2-3 months. However, the longevity of your microlinks will generally be determined by your maintenance routine and the quality of the initial installation. 

Do Microlinks Damage Your Natural Hair?

Microlinks do not damage your natural hair unless they are installed incorrectly. Properly installed micro links are carefully attached to your real hair using microbeads, eliminating the need for glue or tape. This technique eliminates the risk of any damage to your natural hair. 


However, if your natural hair is neglected and not properly cared for while you have micro links, it could result in damage. But, this is not a micro links issue, it is simply a result of Improper haircare. This is why it is important to have a maintenance routine to help your microlinks last long while also keeping your real hair as healthy as possible.

How To Maintain Microlinks

Detangle Your Microlinks Properly

It is very important to detangle your microlinks frequently to remove knots and help them remain smooth. However, using the proper detangling technique is even more crucial. When detangling your microlinks, you should handle them with the same amount of caution you would give your natural hair. 

Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots. Be sure to also use a proper detangling tool like our detangling brush which is designed to glide through textured hair. This will not only make the whole process easier but will also keep you from pulling off your microlinks and causing damage to your real hair.

Wash Regularly

Microlinks are long-term hair extensions designed to last several months so it is important to wash them consistently to avoid build-up of oil and dirt on the hair extensions and also keep your scalp healthy and clean. It is best to use a co-wash to wash your microlinks as regular shampoos can strip the hair and make it brittle. However, you can also use a moisturising sulphate-free shampoo once a month. 


When washing your microlinks, try to avoid scrubbing the roots of your hair too much to avoid messing up the beads used to attach the extensions. Instead, apply the shampoo to your scalp and scrub horizontally. Then gently work the lather downwards into the hair as you rinse.

Condition Your Micro Links Extensions

Much like your natural hair, microlinks also need to be conditioned 1-2 times a month to keep them hydrated and prevent breakage. You can use a regular conditioner or opt for a deep conditioner if you want something intense. However, try to avoid putting conditioner on your roots. Start from the middle of the hair and work your way down to the ends.

Dry Your Micro Links With Care

Drying your microlinks properly is essential for their longevity. After washing, most people make the mistake of wrapping their microlinks up with a towel the way they would do with their real hair. However, this can put your microlinks at risk of damage and even result in tangles and knots. 


Instead of doing this,  gently squeeze out any excess water from your microlinks after washing. Then use a microfiber towel to pat the hair down, be sure to avoid the roots of your hair while doing this. You can let the hair air dry afterwards or use a blow dry on low heat to further dry the hair if you are in a rush.

Limit Heat Styling

Excessive use of heat styling tools like flat irons and curlers can damage your microlinks so it is best to avoid them. If you can not avoid heat styling completely, then try to do it no more than 1-2 times a month.

Protect Your Micro Links Before Going To Bed

To avoid matting and tangles, wear a satin bonnet to protect your microlinks at night. This will keep the hair from rubbing against the fabric of bedding, reducing friction and the risk of damage. Before wearing your bonnet, you can also put the hair into a loose twist or plait to keep it from getting frizzy.


Nourish Your Scalp With Oil

It is very important to keep your scalp healthy and nourished when you have your microlinks. Apply hair oil to your scalp at least once a week to keep it hydrated and healthy. This is especially important in the cold winter months when you may be experiencing dry, itchy scalp. You do not have to drench the scalp in heaps of oil when doing this. All you need is a few drops gently massaged into the scalp.

Keep Up With Retightening Appointments

Microlinks needs to be retightened every 4-5 weeks to avoid matting as your hair grows every month. So it is important to schedule your monthly appointment with our stylist to help keep them in perfect shape.


Microlinks can be a major game changer for your hair but only if you give them the proper care and maintenance. To help your extensions last long and keep them looking sleek, be sure to follow the maintenance tips we highlighted in this post.

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