Summer is synonymous with sunshine, beach days, and outdoor adventures, but it can also bring unique challenges for your hair and extensions. The combination of heat, humidity, saltwater, and chlorine can lead to dryness, tangling, and damage, making it crucial to adapt your hair care routine for the season. With the right strategies, you can keep your hair and extensions looking healthy, vibrant, and beautiful all summer long. Because our hair is all real human hair, the best way to look after it is often how we would look after our real hair...
1. Hydrate Your Hair and Extensions
One of the biggest threats to hair health during the summer is dehydration. The sun’s UV rays, along with exposure to saltwater and chlorine, can strip your hair of its natural moisture, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. Extensions, especially those made from human hair, require even more attention because they don’t receive natural oils from your scalp.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Incorporate weekly deep conditioning treatments to infuse your hair and extensions with moisture. Look for products containing hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and shea butter.
- Leave-in Conditioners: Use a leave-in conditioner daily to maintain moisture levels. These products provide a protective barrier against environmental stressors while keeping your hair soft and manageable.
- Hydrating Hair Masks: Treat your hair to a hydrating mask at least once a week. These masks are especially effective after a day at the beach or pool, replenishing lost moisture and restoring shine.
2. Protect from Sun Damage
Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to color fading, dryness, and damage to both natural hair and extensions.
- Wear a Hat or Scarf: Covering your hair with a wide-brimmed hat, scarf, or bandana is one of the best ways to shield it from the sun. Not only does this protect your hair, but it also prevents your scalp from getting sunburned.
- UV-Protectant Sprays: Invest in a UV-protectant spray specifically formulated for hair. These sprays create a protective barrier against harmful rays and can help prevent color fading and dryness.
- Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Whenever possible, try to limit your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours. If you’re spending the day outdoors, take breaks in the shade to give your hair a rest from the sun.
3. Minimise Heat Styling
Summer’s natural heat and humidity can make it difficult to maintain heat-styled looks, leading to overuse of flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers. However, over-styling can cause damage and exacerbate dryness in both your hair and extensions.
- Embrace Natural Hairstyles: Summer is the perfect time to embrace natural hairstyles. Let your hair air dry and experiment with braids, buns, and ponytails that don’t require heat.
- Use Heat Protectants: If you must use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray or serum beforehand. This will help minimize the damage caused by high temperatures.
- Reduce Heat Settings: Opt for the lowest effective heat setting on your styling tools, and avoid using them every day to give your hair a break.
4. Guard Against Chlorine and Saltwater
Swimming is a staple of summer fun, but chlorine in pools and saltwater in the ocean can be harsh on your hair and extensions. Both can cause dryness, tangling, and even discoloration.
- Pre-Swim Prep: Before swimming, rinse your hair with fresh water. This helps to saturate your hair, reducing its ability to absorb chlorine or saltwater. Applying a leave-in conditioner or hair oil can also provide an extra layer of protection.
- Wear a Swim Cap: For maximum protection, consider wearing a swim cap. While it may not be the most fashionable choice, it effectively shields your hair from chlorine and saltwater exposure.
- Post-Swim Care: After swimming, rinse your hair immediately with fresh water to remove any chlorine or salt. Follow up with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to replenish moisture and prevent damage.
5. Regular Maintenance and Care
Keeping your hair and extensions healthy during the summer requires consistent maintenance and care.
- Brush Gently: Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for extensions to detangle your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up. This prevents pulling and minimizes breakage.
- Wash Regularly, but Not Too Often: While it’s essential to keep your hair clean, avoid washing it too frequently as it can strip natural oils. Use a sulfate-free shampoo to maintain moisture levels.
- Trim Regularly: Regular trims prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, which can weaken both natural hair and extensions.
6. Choose Summer-Friendly Products
Switch to lighter, summer-friendly hair products that won’t weigh your hair down or cause buildup.
- Lightweight Serums and Oils: Opt for lightweight serums and oils that provide hydration without making your hair greasy. Argan oil and coconut oil are great choices for summer.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoos: These are gentler on your hair and extensions, preserving moisture and preventing dryness.
- Anti-Frizz Products: Combat humidity-induced frizz with anti-frizz serums or sprays that help smooth your hair and keep it looking sleek.
