Summer’s finally on its way - bring on long days, beach swims, and poolside lounging. But while you’re soaking up the sun, your hair extensions are quietly battling some seasonal challenges.

Every year, stylists see the same summer struggles: discolouration, dryness, tangles, and fading. Most of these are simply the result of chemicals, salt, UV exposure, and lifestyle.

The good news is a few small tweaks can keep your hair looking salon-fresh right through to autumn.

1. Sunscreen stains are turning your hair pink

Blonde extensions turning pink or peachy over summer is more common than you think. The culprit? Avobenzone, a chemical found in many sunscreens. 

When it mixes with UV light, water, or sweat, it can react with the pigments in your extensions, leaving an unexpected peachy tone that toner can’t easily fix.

Don't ditch sunscreen all together. Just choose carefully:

• Look for mineral-based formulas that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead of avobenzone.
• Tie your hair up and off your neck/shoulders when applying sunscreen
• Wash hands thoroughly after applying sunscreen before touching your hair.
• If you’re using spray SPF, cover your hair while applying it.

2. Fake tan is turning your hair orange

That sunsafe golden glow? Amazing, we’re all for it. The DHA (dihydroxyacetone) that creates it? Not so great for your extensions. 

Fake tan can leave blonde hair looking brassy or straight up orange, especially around the ends or hairline.

To avoid staining:

• Keep hair tied up while tanning and rinsing off.
• Wash hands thoroughly before styling your hair.
• Don’t sleep in fresh tan with your hair loose.

3. Chlorine and saltwater are drying out your hair

Pool days and ocean swims are summer essentials, but both can be tough on extensions. Chlorine strips moisture and colour, while saltwater roughens the hair cuticle, leaving it dry and tangled.

Before swimming:

• Wet your hair with clean water first - this helps minimise absorption of chlorine or salt.
• Apply an extension safe leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil to create a barrier.
• Braid your hair to prevent tangling.
• Rinse thoroughly after swimming, then follow up with a nourishing conditioner once you’re home.

If you’re a regular swimmer, a swim cap can be a great investment for the longevity of your extensions.

4. UV rays and heat are damaging your hair

Sunshine is great for your mood, not so much for your hair! UV rays can fade extension colour and break down the natural keratin that keeps strands strong and smooth. Add in the heat from styling tools and you’ve got a recipe for dryness.

Protect your hair the same way you protect your skin:

• Use an extension safe UV-protectant spray before heading outside.
• Pop on a hat during long days in the sun.
• Avoid leaving wet hair in the heat - it can cause tangling and scalp irritation.
  

5. Sweat and product build-up are irritating your scalp

Warm weather means sweat, and often more product use. Dry shampoo, SPF sprays, and texture mists can build up around where your extensions are attached, causing scalp irritation or slippage of extension beads.

Keep things fresh with a gentle routine:

• Wash regularly with an extension-safe sulphate, paraben and protein-free shampoo.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove product residue.
• Dry your hair (or at least your roots) with a hairdryer after washing - no air drying.

Enjoy the sun, protect your hair.

Long summer days can be carefree even with extensions. With the right habits, you can protect your extensions from fading, dryness, and discolouration while still enjoying every moment outdoors.