Summers and hair extensions don’t exactly go hand in hand. As the season kicks in, maintaining and protecting your hair extensions can become a task. Direct sunlight, saltwater, and chlorine are a few elements that can damage and affect the quality of your hair extensions. But fret not, in this article we’ll guide you through a few tips that’ll help you rock your extensions during summer!
BEWARE OF THE HIDDEN ENEMY!
I'm starting out this blog with sunscreen. If you’re a stylist, the first thing you should be warning your hair extension guests about is the damage that can be caused when the wrong sunscreen is used near hair extensions. If you’re an extension client coming upon this blog, I am here to warn you!
Regular sunscreen contains AVOBENZONE which alters the color of extensions. This ingredient is what protects your skin from the damaging effects of the sun, and is in 98 percent of all sunscreens, even the natural ones. Unfortunately it will turn your beautiful hair extensions a very ugly peachy orange. Thankfully, there are mineral based sunscreens available such as Bare Republic's SPF 30 with a sheer finish that won't turn your hair orange, but should protect you from UVA and UVB rays.
How often should you wash your extensions in the summer?
During the summer, sweat and oil can accumulate on your scalp and extensions. As a rule of thumb I like to wash my extensions once a week. I wash the top of my hair every other day. Separate your hair extensions from your natural hair by pulling out the hairline and the top of your hair first, then pull the extensions back into a bun and wrap using a scrunchie.
Wash and condition the top of your head and hair line as normal. If you’ve been in the ocean or pool by all means shampoo the extensions as frequently as needed. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR EXTENSIONS TO DRY AFTER BEING IN THE CHLORINE, RINSE IMMEDIATELY.
Protect your hair extensions from your summer fun:
Summers can be harsh on your hair extensions. Direct sunlight and chlorine can cause the color to fade and the texture to dry out. Cover your hair extensions when exposed to the sun and avoid swimming in chlorinated water. If you do swim in a pool here my personal suggestions:
- Wear a hat! Tuck your hair up into the hat to keep it from getting wet and protect it from sun exposure. If going in the water is your thing, by all means live your best mermaid life - but go to my next tip.
- Always rinse your hair extensions BEFORE going into a chlorinated pool. Once you’re out of the pool rinse and spray in a leave in conditioner. Even if you intend to go back in: rinse and repeat!
- I don’t suggest braiding your extensions before going in the ocean because the salt and sand will create a nightmare to comb out. Instead, do a rope braid where you twist the hair around itself in two tendrils. It will be a lot easier to maintain once you’re out of the water!
Keep your hair hydrated:
Keeping your hair extensions hydrated is essential during the summer. Use a good quality leave-in conditioner and apply a few drops of hair oil to the extensions regularly. This will keep them moisturized and prevent them from drying out.
Reduce the use of heat styling tools:
The high temperature and humidity during the summer months can make your hair extensions vulnerable to heat damage. If possible, avoid using heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons or blow dryers more than once a week AND ALWAYS apply a heat-protectant to your extensions before styling them.
With a these tips, you can properly care for and maintain your Polished Mane Luxury Hair Extensions during the summer. Whether you’re swimming in the ocean waves or lounging poolside, remember to keep your extensions away from water if possible and use products specifically designed for them- such as high-quality shampoo and conditioner. Additionally, don’t forget to protect your hair from the sun when you can, and use quality heat protectant when heat styling. With these tips in mind, you can be rest assured that your luxury hair extensions will stay delicately glossy and polished all through the summer season!