Key Takeaways:
- Pre-wet your extensions with clean water before swimming to prevent chlorine/salt absorption
- Use UV protection products and wear hats to shield extensions from sun damage
- Deep condition weekly - extensions don't receive natural scalp oils and need extra moisture
- Avoid excessive heat styling which can weaken extension bonds and cause breakage
- Brush gently from ends up using extension-specific brushes to prevent tangling
- Sleep with hair in loose braid and use silk pillowcases to reduce friction
- Schedule regular maintenance appointments to check bond integrity
Why Summer is So Tough on Hair Extensions
Summer should be fun, not a total disaster for your gorgeous extensions! I've seen sooo many clients come in with damaged extensions after just a few weeks of summer activities. Like, why does nobody talk about how brutal summer can be on extensions?
The combo of hot sun, pool days, and ocean swims creates a perfect storm for extension damage. UV rays fade color (esp those beautiful blondes!), chlorine weakens bonds, and saltwater dries everything out. Plus humidity? Don't even get me started on the frizz situation.
When you've invested in quality hair extensions, the last thing you want is to watch them deteriorate while you're tryna enjoy summer. At my salon, I've worked with hundreds of extension clients dealing with summer damage, and I've developed some practical solutions that actually work.
Extensions need extra TLC during summer because, unlike your natural hair, they don't receive oils from your scalp. This makes them more prone to dryness and damage when exposed to harsh summer elements. But with proper care, your extensions can look fabulous all season long!
Shield from the Sun: UV Protection for Extensions
OMG the sun is like extension enemy #1 in summer! UV rays are super sneaky—they don't just damage your skin, they're silently fading and weakening your gorgeous extensions too.
Here's what happens: UV exposure breaks down the protein structure in hair extensions and strips away color molecules. This means your beautiful blonde extensions might start looking brassy or your rich brunettes could turn reddish. Not cute!
I tell all my clients to basically treat their extensions like their skin when it comes to sun protection. Would you go to the beach without sunscreen? Probs not! So don't leave your hair unprotected either.
Some easy ways to shield your extensions:
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outside (bonus: protects your face too!)
- Apply UV-specific hair products before sun exposure
- Try spray-in UV protectants that won't weigh down your extensions
- Use leave-in conditioners with UV filters for double protection
One of my fave tricks? I keep a travel-size UV protectant spray in my beach bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day. My clients who follow this advice see waaay less color fading during summer months.
Remember that different extension types might need different protection levels. K-tip fusion extensions and sew-in wefts often have more exposure to UV rays than tape-ins, so plan your protection strategy accordingly!
Water Warriors: Swimming with Extensions
Lemme just say - swimming with extensions isn't impossible, but you gotta be smart about it! I can't tell you how many times clients have come in with green-tinted blonde extensions or stiff, tangled wefts after ignoring my swimming advice.
First thing's first - ALWAYS pre-wet your extensions with clean water before jumping in any pool or ocean. Your hair extensions are like little sponges, and if they're already saturated with clean water, they'll absorb less chlorine or salt. This small step makes a HUGE difference!
For pool protection:
- Wet hair thoroughly with shower water before swimming
- Apply a leave-in conditioner as an extra barrier
- Wear a swim cap for max protection (I know, not the cutest look but effective!)
- Tie hair in a braid to minimize tangling and exposure
For ocean swimming:
- Again, pre-wet with fresh water
- Apply a protective oil to create a barrier against salt
- Rinse immediately after swimming - don't let that salt dry in your extensions!
After swimming rinse routine is non-negotiable! Don't just hop out and let your hair air dry with all those chemicals. I tell my clients to:
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water right away
- Use a gentle clarifying shampoo to remove chlorine/salt
- Deep condition to restore moisture
- Detangle very gently with a wide-tooth comb
At Jo Hearts Hair, I've seen clients maintain beautiful extensions all summer despite being total water babies. The secret is just being consistent with these protection steps!
Hydration Heroes: Keeping Extensions Moisturized
Y'all, summer dryness is real! Extensions need way more moisture than natural hair cause they don't get those natural oils from your scalp. I've seen so many clients with extensions that look like straw by August if they don't follow a good hydration routine.
Think about it - between the sun, wind, salt, chlorine, and hot styling tools, your extensions are basically in a moisture-sucking gauntlet all summer. One of the biggest mistakes I see? People using the wrong products that either don't provide enough moisture or leave extensions looking greasy.
Here's my extension hydration game plan:
- Weekly deep conditioning treatments (leave on 15-20 mins)
- Alcohol-free leave-in conditioner after every wash
- Hydrating hair masks 1-2 times weekly
- Avoid products with sulfates that strip moisture
- Focus conditioner on mid-lengths to ends (that's where extensions need it most!)
Pro tip that most people miss: Apply your hydrating products when extensions are damp, not soaking wet! This helps the product actually penetrate instead of just sliding off.
I've experimented with so many products over the years at Jo Hearts Hair, and I've found that lightweight oils like argan or jojoba work amazing for extensions. They add moisture without weighing them down or making them look greasy.
For my clients with fine hair extensions, I recommend using a spray leave-in rather than a cream to avoid heaviness. It's all about finding that perfect balance of hydration without sacrificing volume and movement!
Heat Styling Survival: Protecting Extension Bonds
Let's be real - summer heat plus styling heat can be a disaster for extensions! The bonds that hold your extensions are super vulnerable to excess heat, especially during summer. I've literally seen tape-ins slide right out and fusion bonds get all gummy from too much heat exposure.
When you combine the high summer temps with flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers, you're basically putting your extensions through a heat gauntlet. But I'm not saying you can't style your hair - just be strategic about it!
Here's how to heat style without ruining your extensions:
- Always (ALWAYS!) use heat protectant before any hot tools
- Keep styling tools at least 1-inch away from attachment points
- Lower your styling temp by 20-30 degrees in summer
- Try heat-free styling methods when possible (braids, twists, etc)
- Blow dry bonds/tape fully before using other hot tools
The biggest mistake I see? People directing high heat right at their tape-in bonds or fusion connections. This basically melts the adhesive! Instead, start styling mid-shaft and work down, avoiding direct heat on attachment points.
I've had clients come in with their tape-ins literally falling out because they blasted their roots with a blow dryer set to high heat. Such an expensive mistake that's totally avoidable!
For emergency situations when you need to style quickly, try focusing on just the front pieces or top layer. This gives the appearance of styled hair without putting all your extensions at risk.
Nighttime Nurturing: Protecting Extensions While You Sleep
Omg the amount of extension damage that happens while sleeping is crazy! I can literally tell which clients are sleeping with their hair loose vs. protected. Summer nights can be extra tough on extensions because of sweat, humidity, and those late nights that might mean skipping your nighttime hair routine.
The problem? All that tossing and turning creates major friction, which leads to tangling, matting, and weakened bonds. But a few simple bedtime habits can make a massive difference!
My nighttime extension care checklist:
- Gently brush extensions before bed (working from ends up!)
- Secure hair in a loose braid or low ponytail
- Use silk or satin pillowcases (cotton causes friction!)
- Try a silk sleep cap or bonnet for maximum protection
- Apply a tiny bit of leave-in conditioner to ends if they're dry
Big no-nos for bedtime:
- NEVER go to bed with wet extensions
- Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on bonds
- Don't use rubber bands (silk scrunchies only!)
- Skip sticky/heavy products near attachment points
One common mistake I see? People putting their hair in a high bun for sleep. This puts so much stress on your extension attachments! Opt for a loose braid instead, which distributes the weight and prevents tangling.
For my tape-in extension clients especially, proper nighttime care is essential since the bonds are more vulnerable to friction. Those who follow these steps consistently get WAY more longevity from their extensions.
Brushing Basics: Tangle-Free Extension Care
Can we talk about brushing for a sec? It seems so basic but sooo many people are destroying their extensions with incorrect brushing! In summer, when you're swimming, sweating, and dealing with humidity, proper brushing becomes even more crucial.
I cringe when clients tell me they just grab any old brush and rip through their extensions from root to tip. That's a one-way ticket to matted extensions and damaged bonds!
Here's the right way to brush extensions (especially in summer):
- Use extension-specific brushes (like a loop brush or extension brush)
- ALWAYS start at the ends and work your way up
- Hold the roots with one hand while brushing to prevent pulling
- Brush multiple times daily, especially after swimming/sweating
- Use detangling spray on dry extensions before brushing
Summertime brushing schedule I recommend:
- Morning: Gentle detangle to start the day
- After swimming/sweating: Light detangle with spray
- Before bed: Thorough brushing from ends to roots
The biggest game-changer for most of my clients? Learning to section their hair while brushing. Take small 2-inch sections, start at the ends, and gradually work up. This prevents those impossible knots that form when you try to brush everything at once.
Also, be extra gentle around the attachment points - whether you have Great Lengths or any other brand, brushing too roughly near the bonds can loosen them prematurely.
For clients with curly extensions, I recommend using your fingers first to gently separate curls, then follow with a wide-tooth comb. This preserves the curl pattern while preventing tangling.
Maintenance Matters: Professional Summer Extension Care
Listen, even with perfect at-home care, summer can be rough on extensions! That's why I always recommend slightly more frequent salon visits during these months. I've saved so many extension sets by catching issues early before they become disasters.
At Jo Hearts Hair, I offer special summer maintenance services because the needs are different this time of year. And honestly? The clients who keep up with their maintenance appointments have MUCH better looking extensions by the end of summer.
Summer maintenance schedule to consider:
- Tape-ins: Every 5-6 weeks instead of 6-8
- K-tip/fusion: Check-up at 6 weeks
- Sew-in wefts: Tightening at 4-5 weeks
- Clip-ins: Professional clean/condition mid-summer
During summer maintenance appointments, I don't just move up the extensions. I also:
- Deep condition with professional-grade treatments
- Check for and repair any sun/chlorine damage
- Refresh color that may have faded from UV exposure
- Remove any product buildup from sunscreens, salt sprays, etc.
- Trim ends if they've become dry or split
One thing I notice with extension clients? Those who try to stretch their summer maintenance appointments too long often end up needing full replacements instead of simple moves-ups. This costs wayyy more in the long run!
If you're traveling and can't make your regular appointment, at least schedule a quick check-up before and after vacation. A 30-minute bond check can prevent major issues while you're away!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go swimming with hair extensions?
Yes! But take precautions. Always wet your extensions with clean water first, apply a leave-in conditioner as a barrier, and rinse thoroughly afterward. Chlorine and salt water are harsh on extensions, so immediate rinsing is essential. For frequent swimmers, consider wearing a swim cap or keeping hair in a braid to minimize exposure.
How often should I wash my extensions in summer?
You might need to wash slightly more often due to sweat and product buildup, but don't overdo it. Aim for 2-3 times weekly using sulfate-free shampoo. Focus the shampoo on your scalp and roots, letting it rinse through the extensions rather than scrubbing them directly. Always follow with conditioner from mid-lengths to ends.
My extensions feel dry and straw-like after beach days. How can I fix this?
This is super common! Do an immediate recovery treatment: deep condition for 20-30 minutes with a rich mask, focusing on mid-lengths to ends. For severely dry extensions, try an overnight treatment with argan oil on the ends (avoid the bonds). Moving forward, apply a leave-in protectant before beach days and rinse with fresh water immediately after ocean swimming.
Will sunscreen products in my hair damage my extensions?
Spray sunscreens can leave residue on extensions that builds up over time. If you're applying sunscreen, pull your hair back first or cover with a hat. If spray sunscreen does get on your extensions, use a clarifying shampoo that same day to remove the residue before it can build up and cause dulling or dryness.
Should I adjust my extension type for summer months?
If you're planning new extensions for summer, you might consider your lifestyle. For beach lovers, tape-ins or sew-in wefts often withstand heat and swimming better than individual methods. For those with active, sweaty lifestyles, properly installed fusion extensions can be very secure. Discuss your summer plans during your consultation for personalized recommendations.
How can I protect my extensions during summer workouts?
Keep hair secured in a loose braid or low ponytail to minimize sweat exposure at the bonds/tape. Use a sweatband or moisture-wicking headband along the hairline. After workouts, allow hair to fully dry before styling, as styling sweaty extensions can lead to moldiness at the attachment points (yes, really!). A quick rinse after intense workouts is ideal.
My blonde extensions are turning brassy from the pool. How can I fix this?
Chlorine oxidizes blonde extensions, causing that dreaded green or brassy tint. Use a purple shampoo 1-2 times weekly to combat brassiness. For green tints, try a swimmer's shampoo or a tomato-based rinse. Better yet, prevent the problem by wearing a swim cap or applying a leave-in conditioner before swimming, and rinse immediately after.
Ready for Your Perfect Summer Extension Routine?
Remember, everyone's extension journey is unique! What works for one person might need tweaking for another, and that's completely normal.
Want personalized summer extension advice? Stop by Jo Hearts Hair in Lone Tree, and let's create your perfect summer hair care routine together!
Located at: 9227 East Lincoln Ave, Suite #111, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Follow @joheartshair for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes peeks at stunning transformations! ✨
Enjoy your summer glow,
XOXO,
Jo 💕
