Protecting Your Hair Extensions From Sunscreen
Summer is the perfect time to flaunt your beautiful hair extensions. Whether attending outdoor events or soaking up the sun, it’s essential to understand how to protect your investment from potential damage. While sunscreen is vital to protecting your skin, it can wreak havoc on your hair extensions if you’re not careful. Certain chemical UV filters in sunscreens react with hair proteins and light, causing discoloration within hours. That’s why the Boise hair salon stylists at unDONE would like to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about sunscreen and hair extensions while providing you with tips to keep them looking fresh and gorgeous.
Can Sunscreen Damage Hair Extensions?
The short answer is yes, sunscreen can damage your hair extensions. Sunscreens containing certain ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene can cause discoloration when they come into contact with the keratin in your hair, especially when exposed to UV light and heat. This reaction can turn your beautiful blonde extensions pink or brassy orange, which is not the look you want after investing in new extensions.
Why Does Sunscreen Turn Hair Extensions Orange?
Applying sunscreen to protect your skin might inadvertently expose your extensions to ingredients that cause discoloration. Avobenzone and octocrylene, common in many sunscreens, react with the keratin protein in your hair under UV rays. This chemical reaction produces free radicals that bind to and degrade the keratin fibers, stripping out color molecules and leaving behind orange and red tones, particularly noticeable in lighter hair.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
To protect your hair extensions from this chemical reaction, opt for mineral-based sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide instead of avobenzone and octocrylene. Mineral sunscreens work by sitting on top of the skin and deflecting UV rays rather than being absorbed, thus they are less likely to react with your hair. Always check the ingredient list of your sunscreen to ensure it is safe for your extensions.
Shielding Your Hair Extensions
One of the simplest ways to protect your hair extensions from sunscreen is to keep them away from direct contact. Before applying sunscreen, tie your hair back into a ponytail or bun to minimize exposure. This also helps prevent sweat and moisture from transferring sunscreen to your hair. If you’re planning to be in the sun for an extended period, consider wearing a hat or scarf to provide an extra layer of protection for your extensions.
Swimming with Extensions
Swimming in pools or the ocean can expose your hair to chlorine and saltwater, further damaging your extensions. Before you take a dip, braid your extensions to prevent tangling and matting. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water to remove any residue and follow up with a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
After Sun Exposure Care
After spending time in the sun, it’s important to wash your hair extensions as soon as possible to remove any sunscreen residue. Use a clarifying shampoo to thoroughly cleanse your hair, followed by a moisturizing conditioner to rehydrate and soften the strands. A leave-in treatment can also help to restore moisture and protect your extensions from further damage.
Regular Maintenance
Visiting your Boise hair salon for regular maintenance is essential in keeping your extensions in top condition. At unDONE, our expert stylists recommend scheduling maintenance appointments every 6-8 weeks. During these visits, we can assess the health of your extensions, trim any split ends, and provide professional treatments to keep your hair looking its best.
Additional Tips for Healthy Extensions
In addition to protecting your hair from sunscreen, there are other steps you can take to ensure your extensions stay healthy. Avoid excessive heat styling, as this can cause damage and dryness. If you must use heat tools, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. Also, sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent tangling while you sleep.
unDONE – A Trust Hair Salon in Boise
Protecting your hair extensions from sunscreen is essential to maintain their beauty and longevity throughout the summer. By choosing the right sun protection, shielding your extensions, and following proper aftercare, you can enjoy your gorgeous hair without worrying about damage. At unDONE, our Boise hair salon stylists are here to help you keep your extensions looking fabulous all season long. Schedule an appointment online or call us at (208) 287-2010 to ensure your extensions remain vibrant and beautiful all season long.