Why Are My Keratin Hair Falling Out?

Let’s be honest: keratin hair extensions require real commitment—of time, money, and the hope of getting gorgeous, celebrity-level hair. So when you notice tiny strands on your pillow, brush, or even in your coffee (ouch), it’s tempting to just pull them all out. But don’t panic—some shedding is normal. You lose 50-100 hairs a day naturally, and your extensions will shed a bit too. However, if entire bonds are falling out, something’s wrong. As someone who’s been there, I’ll break down the most common reasons why your keratin extensions might be coming out sooner than they should.

1. The Application Wasn’t Quite Right

Keratin extensions require serious skill and precision

The Bond is Too Big or Too Small: If the bead of keratin is too large, it can put unnecessary stress on your natural hair and be too heavy, causing it to slip. If it’s too small, it might not form a secure enough bond to hold.
Improper Heat Temperature: The special tool used to seal the bond must be heated to the exact right temperature. Too cool, and the bond doesn’t melt and seal properly. Too hot, and it can burn the keratin, making it brittle and weak, or even fry your natural hair.
Placement Too Close to the Root: If the bond is placed on the root, the natural growth and oil from your scalp will push it out incredibly fast. It should always be about a quarter-inch away.

The Fix

Do your research! Choose a stylist who specializes in keratin extensions—not just any type—and check their portfolio. A good stylist will test your hair first to make sure it can handle the heat.

For a strong and long-lasting hold, follow these steps:

Fully melt the keratin glue: This creates smooth, even bonds for a secure hold.
Work quickly when shaping bonds: Keratin hardens fast. Slow application can weaken the bond.
Press each bond firmly with pliers: Make sure they’re tightly sealed with no gaps. Loose bonds can cause slipping or early fallout.

How to Install Prebonded Hair Extensions?

2. Using the Wrong Hair Tips

Product buildup residue collects around the bond, it gradually weakens the adhesive

Using the Wrong Products Sulfates strip away oils—and break down the keratin bonds. Conditioner can also loosen bonds if it gets near your roots, causing extensions to slide out.
You’re Washing Too Often Daily washing removes your hair’s natural oils, which help keep the bonds strong.
Not completely dried hair Any moisture weakens the bond. Always make sure your hair is completely dry before applying extensions—and avoid washing your hair for at least 24 hours after.

The Fix

Wash your hair 2–3 times a week max. On non-wash days, use dry shampoo (focus on the roots—avoid the bonds!).
Switch to sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoos. Look for formulas labeled “extension-safe”.
When conditioning, apply it only to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair—never near the roots or bonds. Rinse thoroughly!

How to Care Prebonded Hair Extensions?

3. Heat and Styling Damage

Keratin bonds are made with heat—but that doesn’t mean they can handle constant heat.

If you’re using a straightener, curling iron, or blow dryer on high heat every day (and holding it near the bonds), you’re weakening the keratin. Over time, it’ll melt or crack, and your extensions will fall out.
Even brushing can be a problem if you’re too rough. Yanking a brush through tangles near the roots can pull the extensions loose—especially if your hair is wet (wet hair is more fragile!).

The Fix

Turn down the heat! Keep your styling tools at 356°F or lower, and never hold them directly on the bonds.
Use a heat protectant spray every time you style—focus on the bonds and the area around them.
Brush gently with a wide-tooth comb or an extension-specific brush (they have softer bristles that won’t tug). Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots—never brush from the top down when your hair is tangled.

4. Extensions Are Overdue for Replacement

Even with perfect care, keratin extensions are not permanent.

This can vary based on how fast your hair grows. As your natural hair grows out, the bond moves further away from your scalp. After about an inch of growth, the weight distribution changes, and the bonds can become looser and more prone to slipping. This is a natural process, not a failure.

The Fix

Know when to say goodbye. If your extensions are looking frizzy, the bonds are visible, or Keratin hair falling out more than usual, it’s time to book a removal appointment. A good stylist will remove them gently (using a keratin dissolver) so your natural hair stays intact.

Final Thoughts – Why Are Keratin Hair Falling Out?

If your keratin hair falling out, don’t panic—it doesn’t always mean something is wrong. It could be natural shedding, or it could be as simple as adjusting your hair care routine. The key to long-lasting keratin extensions is:

Professional installation
Extension-safe products
Gentle aftercare

With the right maintenance, you can enjoy full, gorgeous hair without worrying about premature fallout.

Our Amazon store sells two types of keratin tips: U tip and K tip. To learn about the four types of full shine prebonded hair extensions, please click here.

U Tip on Amazon