The Hair Extensions Summer Survival Guide

Of all the seasons, summer is the best season for hair. On the go, at the beach, or just for a romantic night out, there are limitless style possibilities from high ponytails to braids or simply tousled beach waves. Summer, however, can do a number on your natural hair, much fewer hair extensions that don’t get the benefit of receiving the beneficial oils from your scalp. We rounded up our best tips and hacks so your extensions can survive the summer and keep looking perfect!

Sun Damages Hair At The Cellular Level

Did you also know that both UVA and UVB rays can dramatically affect hair as well? Excessive sun exposure can damage the structure of hair at a molecular level by degrading hair proteins as well as hair pigments. UVB specifically is responsible for the loss of protein, UVA radiation is responsible for color changes and both UV bands produce free radicals that further compromise hair integrity. Since most high-quality hair extensions are made of 100% real human hair, they are just as susceptible (if not more so) to damage as your natural hair. For extended periods of time at the beach or by the pool, rock out a fashionable summer hat. Your hair will thank you!

Dealing With Humidity

On those really humid mornings when your hair doesn't know what texture it should be other than frizzy, try to get the humidity to work with you. Sprinkle a little water on to the bottom half of your hair - just enough to make it damp. Then twist the damp hair into three little buns and pin up. Next, curl the top layers (frizz always hides better when there is texture). When you are done curling the top half, blow-dry the buns for 30 seconds each. Voila, the buns gave the bottom layer enough wave than you don't need to spend any more time curling it. And on sweaty summer mornings, who wants to spend more time with appliances that radiate heat?

Managing That Frizz!

Struggling with frizz during the summer can take a composed style and make it look less so. Where extensions are concerned, frizz is often caused by mechanical damage from brushing and The fix is simple enough. Keep a small can of hairspray and a toothbrush with you on the go. You simply spray a bit of hairspray on the toothbrush and lightly comb those flyaway hairs back into place. Also, when finishing your hair before leaving for the day, instead of aggressive brushing while blow-drying, shape the hair using your fingers until the hair is about 80% dry. Also, make sure you’re using the correct brush for your hair type:

• Curly hair: Gently detangle with a wide-tooth comb.
• Straighter hair: Use a natural bristle brush to help smooth your strands.
• All hair: Brush from roots to ends to disperse your scalp’s natural conditioning oils. Never use a brush with plastic bristles as they create a static effect in the hair.

Pools & Extensions

Chemicals and saltwater can be damaging and harsh on our real hair, including hair extensions. It is best not to allow chemicals or salty ocean water to remain in hair, so before swimming, apply conditioner or thermal spray and leave it in the hair during swimming. Always tie your hair up in a braid before swimming and shampoo immediately with sulfate-free hair products after to prevent mineral and salt buildup.

A few key steps to take in caring for your extensions this summer can go a long way into adding to their longevity!

Summer Extension Care: Everything You Need to Know

Summer is genuinely the most demanding season for extension hair - UV exposure, salt water, chlorine, heat, humidity, and increased activity all combine to stress extension hair in ways that other seasons don't. Here's how to handle all of it.

"Summer doesn't mean taking a break from your extensions - it means adjusting your approach. The customers who come back to us after summer with extensions in great condition are the ones who made two or three small adjustments to their routine. It doesn't have to be complicated."

- Priyanka Swamy, Founder of Perfect Locks

UV Protection for Extension Hair

Extension hair has no melanin - the pigment that provides natural UV protection in natural hair. This means extension hair, especially lighter colors, is more susceptible to UV damage that causes fading, dryness, and brittleness. A UV protection spray for hair applied before sun exposure is a simple, effective solution. Wearing a hat during extended sun exposure also protects both your extension hair and your scalp.

Humidity Management

Humidity causes frizz by forcing moisture into the hair cuticle unevenly. For extension hair, an anti-humidity serum or spray applied as a finishing step after styling creates a barrier that reduces this effect. Apply to the lengths and ends, not the roots or attachment points. Braided or updo styles also naturally resist humidity better than wearing hair down.

Pool and Ocean Care

Wet your extension hair with fresh water before entering a pool or ocean - damp hair absorbs less chlorine or salt water than dry hair. Braid it before swimming to minimize tangling. Rinse immediately after. Apply a small amount of conditioner before air drying to replenish moisture the water stripped.

Summer Styles That Minimize Damage

Protective styles - braids, low buns, twists - are the most damage-preventive approach during summer. They protect the extension hair from sun, wind, and friction while keeping you looking polished. For days when you want to wear extensions down, anti-humidity products and UV protection are your first line of defense.