Protect Your I-Tip Hair Extensions from Sunscreen to Keep Them Looking New All Summer Long
You just got a new set of long, beautiful hair extensions to show off this summer. Before you hit the beach or pool, there's something you need to know about exposing your investment to the sun and water. The sunscreen you slather on to prevent skin damage can wreck your extensions if you're not careful. Certain chemical UV filters react with hair proteins and light to cause discoloration within hours.
So how can you protect your skin and hair at the same time? What ingredients should you avoid, and what precautions will save your extensions? We're answering all your questions about sunscreen and hair extensions. From choosing the right formulas to proper aftercare, you'll learn everything needed to keep your extensions looking great all season, no matter where the summer takes you. Read on for pro tips that prevent damage and maintain beautiful, healthy hair.
Can Sunscreen Damage Hair Extensions?
The short answer is yes, sunscreen can damage your hair extensions. Certain ingredients like avobenzone and octocrylene react with the keratin in hair when exposed to UV light and heat, causing discoloration. Your blonde extensions can turn pink or brassy orange, which is a nightmare after paying for brand-new extensions.
The good news is there are a few things you can do to prevent damage. First, choose a mineral-based sunscreen free of avobenzone and octocrylene. Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on top of the skin and deflect UV rays rather than being absorbed, so they won’t react with your hair.
You should also shield your extensions from sunscreen by wearing them up and away from your body. Tie them back into a ponytail or bun when outside to minimize contact with sunscreen. Wash your extensions as soon as possible after sunscreen exposure to remove any residue. Use a clarifying shampoo and conditioner, followed by a leave-in treatment to moisturize.
By choosing the right sun protection and properly caring for your extensions in the sun, you can keep them looking their best all summer long. With some preventative measures, sunscreen doesn’t have to ruin your hair.
Why Does Sunscreen Turn Hair Extensions Orange?
You slather on sunscreen to protect your skin at the beach but wind up with orange, brassy hair extensions. How does that happen? The discoloration is caused by a chemical reaction between two common sunscreen ingredients - avobenzone and octocrylene - and the keratin protein in your hair when exposed to UV rays.
Avobenzone is added to sunscreens to absorb UVA rays, while octocrylene helps stabilize avobenzone. However, when these active ingredients are activated by the sun's UV radiation in the presence of oxygen, they produce free radicals that bind to and degrade keratin fibers. This process is known as reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Keratin contains iron, copper, and other metals that catalyze and accelerate ROS reactions. The resulting damage destroys melanin pigment in hair, stripping out color molecules. What remains are the underlying warm, orange, and red tones, which become prominently visible, especially in lighter hair.
The best way to avoid sunscreen-related damage is to opt for mineral formulas with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide rather than chemical sunscreens. You should also shield hair extensions as much as possible, tie hair up, and rinse out product after sun exposure. Taking these precautions will help you keep your extensions looking beautiful all season long.
Tips for Protecting Hair Extensions from Sunscreen
If you want to keep your hair extensions looking their best this summer, you’ll need to take some precautions. The sunscreen you slather on can damage your hair extensions, causing them to turn orange.
To prevent sunscreen stains, avoid letting your extensions come into direct contact with the sunscreen. Pull your hair up and away from your body after applying sunscreen. Sweat and moisture can also transfer sunscreen to your hair, so keeping it up will help. You should also consider using a mineral-based, avobenzone-free sunscreen. These are gentler and less likely to cause a chemical reaction with your extensions.
When swimming, carefully braid your extensions before getting in the pool. This helps prevent tangling and matting. Opt for a secure swim cap to further protect your extensions from the chlorine. After swimming, rinse your extensions thoroughly with fresh water to remove chlorine residue.
By taking these few precautions, you can enjoy your hair extensions for months without worrying about damage from the sun and sunscreen.
Keep Your Extensions Looking Brand New with Hair Extensions of Houston
Once you’ve invested in high-quality hair extensions, you want to keep them looking their best for as long as possible. Our stylists at Hair Extensions of Houston know exactly how to care for I-Tip extensions to maintain their natural appearance.
Following these tips from our experts will help you keep your extensions looking and feeling their best for months to come. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy your new extensions for up to a year before needing removal and reapplication.
If you have more questions about caring for extensions or want to explore color and styling options for summer and beyond, schedule a consultation with the experts at Hair Extensions of Houston. Our master stylists can recommend customized solutions so you can achieve your dream locks.
Also, be sure to check out our haircare products specially formulated to keep extensions in top condition. Contact Hair Extensions of Houston today to book your appointment or shop online!
