Heat, sweat, and humidity can easily transform soft, shiny, and silky hair with extensions into a sticky, clumpy, or frizzy disaster. Add some saltwater or chlorine to the mix and the extra locks could easily become tangled. You have invested a lot of time and money on your extensions, so it makes sense to ensure that you take good care of them, especially in the summer.
However, that doesn’t mean staying in an air-conditioned room forever and depriving yourself of taking a cool and refreshing dip or a swim. Here are some tips to help you manage your hair extensions in the summer:
- Treat them well– Real hair extensions can be treated just like your actual mane. That said, consider only using specialized aftercare products, such as a hair extension protein spray, leave-in conditioners, and argan oil hair treatment.
- Avoid soaking too long – Water can make bonded extensions fragile. While you can still go swimming, avoid soaking in the water for a long period of time and dry them as soon as you get out of the ocean or the pool. Touch-dry the bonded areas when they get wet to prolong the lifespan of the extensions and let the rest of your hair air-dry.
- Keep them tied – For bonded extensions, consider tying them in a low bun when you go swimming to prevent tangles. Avoid putting up your hair in a ponytail, as that can put more tension on keratin bonds.
- Don’t let your sunscreen and skincare products get on your hair – These products could get on your hairline and loosen any prebonded extensions or tape-in extensions. So, be sure to rinse or wash your hands after applying them to avoid transferring any residue to your hair.
- Be gentle – You might find yourself needing to wash your hair more often during the summer. That said, its recommended opting to use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and brush your locks regularly using an hair extensions-friendly brush. Gently wash your hair by not scrubbing, bunching, or rubbing. Avoid applying your conditioner at the roots if you use glued-in, tapes or adhesives applied extensions. Make sure it’s applied one or two inches from your scalp and away from the bonds/tape, as moisture could make the adhesive loosen.