How to Care for Your Hair and Extensions During Summer

May 21
09:17

2024

Katie Clontz

Katie Clontz

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Summertime can be harsh on your hair. From increased sun exposure to salty beach waves and chlorinated pools, summer activities can negatively impact your hair's health and appearance. This article delves into effective strategies for maintaining the health of your hair and hair extensions during the summer months.

The Impact of Summer on Hair

Sun Exposure

Extended time outdoors exposes your hair to harmful UV rays,How to Care for Your Hair and Extensions During Summer Articles which can deplete natural oils, making your hair dry and brittle. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UV radiation can damage the hair cuticle, leading to color changes, dryness, and split ends.

Chlorine and Saltwater

Chlorine in pools and salt in seawater can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing it to become dry and prone to breakage. A study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that chlorine can cause significant damage to the hair shaft, leading to increased porosity and breakage.

Caring for Hair Extensions

Pre-Swim Precautions

If you wear clip-in hair extensions, it's advisable to remove them before swimming. Chlorine and saltwater can shorten the lifespan of extensions, causing split ends and breakage. For those with lighter-colored hair, chlorine can even cause a greenish tint.

Post-Swim Care

To protect your hair from chlorine damage, wet your hair before entering the pool. This simple step can reduce the amount of chlorine your hair absorbs. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly and wash it with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. According to Model Beauty Secrets, this routine can help mitigate chlorine damage.

Malibu Treatments

If your hair does turn greenish from chlorine, many salons offer Malibu treatments to remove excess buildup. Elizabeth Chaplin, an eHow contributor, notes that these treatments typically take around 40 minutes but can vary depending on individual hair types.

Protecting Hair from UV Rays

Leave-In Products with Sunscreen

Using leave-in hair products that contain built-in sunscreens can help protect your hair from harmful UV rays. InStyle recommends letting your hair air-dry during the summer months to retain moisture and reduce heat damage.

Hydration and Moisture

Keeping your hair hydrated is crucial during the summer. Use deep conditioning treatments and hydrating masks to replenish lost moisture. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, hydrating your hair can prevent dryness and brittleness.

Interesting Stats

  • UV Damage: According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UV radiation can penetrate the hair cuticle, leading to color changes and structural damage.
  • Chlorine Impact: A study by the NCBI found that chlorine exposure can increase hair porosity by up to 30%, making it more susceptible to damage.
  • Hair Extensions Market: The global hair extensions market is expected to reach $10 billion by 2023, highlighting the importance of proper care (Source: Grand View Research).

Conclusion

Summertime can be challenging for maintaining healthy hair and extensions, but with the right precautions and care routines, you can enjoy the season without compromising your hair's health. From pre-swim precautions to post-swim care and UV protection, these tips will help you keep your hair looking its best all summer long.

Sources

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your hair and extensions remain healthy and vibrant throughout the summer.