Summer can be tough on your hair, especially if you're sporting hair extensions. The sun, heat, and humidity can take a toll on your locks, leaving them dry, brittle, and lifeless. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to protect your hair extensions and keep them looking fabulous all summer long.
Can The Sun Ruin Hair Extensions?
Yes, it’s not only your skin you have to be concerned about – the sun can also damage hair extensions just like it can harm natural hair. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause extensions to become dry, faded, and lacklustre. This is particularly problematic for hair extensions because they do not benefit from the natural oils that your scalp produces to keep hair moisturised and protected. To learn more about how the sun can affect your scalp and hair from powders to scalp sunscreens, you can check out our blog: How To Protect Your Scalp From The Sun.
How To Protect Your Hair From The Sun
Heat Protectant Spray
One of the most effective ways to protect your hair extensions from the sun or heat damage is by using a heat protectant spray. This acts as a barrier between your hair and the sun’s harmful rays. You might wonder, can you use heat protectant on dry hair? Yes, you can! In fact, applying a heat protectant to dry hair can be beneficial before stepping out into the sun, as it adds an extra layer of defence.
Cliphair’s Heat Protectant Spray protects hair up to 230°C for worry-free styling, replaces frizz with a silky sheen and adds texture, boosts volume and improves hold for longer-lasting styles.
Hats
Credit: @chynasolder
Wearing a hat is a simple yet stylish way to protect your hair from the sun. Not only does it shield your extensions from UV rays, but it also adds a fashionable touch to your summer outfit. Wide-brimmed hats offer the best protection, covering your entire head and shading your face as well if needed. Hats can open up a whole new world of style and can accentuate different hairdos, think straw hats for a Hollywood diva look, trucker hats for a Y2K aesthetic, or a simple baseball cap or bucket hat if you find yourself at the beach or a festival.
Scarves and Bandanas
Credit: @jjordaine
Scarves, bandanas and other hair accessories are another trendy option to protect your hair. They come in various styles, fabrics and colours, allowing you to match them with your outfits while keeping your hair extensions safe from the sun. Bandanas can be worn in many different ways – for some hairstyle inspiration when wearing yours, you can browse our blog: 12 Cute Bandana Hairstyles You Must Try.
Styling Techniques
Credit: @miloszhairstylist
Protective hairstyles are essential for safeguarding hair from the damaging effects of prolonged sun exposure. Braids, such as box braids or cornrows are popular choices for certain hair types as they keep the hair neatly contained and minimise exposure to UV rays. Buns and updos, including high buns, ponytails and braided or plaited updos, not only protect the hair ends from sun damage but also help in keeping the scalp cool.
Credit: @sammyfitz_21
Leave In Conditioner
A good leave-in conditioner can work wonders for keeping your hair extensions hydrated and protected from the sun. It provides a moisture boost and creates a protective barrier, reducing the risk of dryness and damage.
Weekly Hydration Masks
Incorporate a weekly hydration mask into your hair care routine. This deep conditioning treatment will replenish moisture, restore shine, and improve the overall health of your hair extensions. Our Deep Conditioning Hair Mask is a great preventative tool for keeping your hair hydrated when exposed to heat but is also the perfect hair mask for dry hair that needs to be replenished after being damaged by the sun.
Avoid Too Much Sun
Whenever possible, try to limit the amount of time your hair is exposed to direct sunlight. Try to seek shade as much as you can, especially during peak hours when the sun’s rays are the strongest, typically between 12PM and 4PM.
Storing Hair Extensions
Although it may be tempting to leave your hair extensions lying around, it’s probably not the best idea! Make sure you have a cool, dry space away from direct sunlight to store your clip ins in a secure, neat way that avoids creating any mess or matting. Luckily, all of our hair extensions are shipped in immaculate packaging and boxing, giving you the perfect storage tool for your wefts.
Hair extension hangers are also a great way of displaying your attachment in a neat and aesthetically pleasing way. This way, you can style your hair beforehand, place them on your hanger and then have them ready to attach straight away whenever you need to.
Conclusion:
Protecting your hair extensions from the sun is crucial for maintaining their beauty and longevity during hot weather. By incorporating these protective measures into your routine, you can enjoy the summer while keeping your extensions in top condition. Use heat protectant sprays, wear hats or stylish scarves, and opt for heatless styling techniques to minimise damage. Regular use of leave-in conditioners and weekly hydration masks will keep your extensions moisturised and healthy, especially if you reduce their sun exposure by storing them appropriately.
By following these tips, you can keep your hair extensions looking beautiful and healthy, no matter how hot it gets outside. Enjoy the summer sun without worrying about the damage it can cause to your lovely locks!
