Summer is a delicate time for those with hair extensions, and before heading to the beach or pool, it's important to know how to protect your new hair from sun and saltwater exposure.
To protect your hair extensions, pay special attention to their care and choose the right products. SEISETA offers practical tips to help you keep your extensions in great condition even during the summer months.
Use Mineral-Based Sunscreens and Avoid Sunscreens with Avobenzone, Octocrylene & Beta-Carotene!
Sunscreens containing Avobenzone, Octocrylene, and Beta-Carotene should be avoided as they can stain extensions orange or reddish. These chemical compounds can react with the hair, causing unwanted and unsightly discoloration that permanently damages the extensions. Instead, opt for mineral-based sunscreens, which are gentler and non-reactive with treated hair.
Avoid Reflective and Anti-Yellow Products
Anti-yellow products on the market (shampoos, creams, dyes) often contain purple color, resulting from the combination of blue and orange or red. When applied to hair extensions, these products can cause patchy staining. Extensions, which are dark initially but fully bleached in the lab through an osmosis process, tend to absorb red or orange pigments from the purple mix, leading to damage and unwanted stains.
Always Rely on a Professional
If you want to perform an anti-yellow treatment, it’s essential to consult an experienced stylist. The professional should:
- Mix the compounds thoroughly to avoid separation;
- Apply the product starting from the top of the strand;
- Leave it on for a minimum of 15 minutes. Clients should avoid complex treatments on their own to prevent irreparably damaging the extensions.
Care and Maintenance
Extensions, which are bleached in the lab with much longer processing times compared to quick salon treatments, are more prone to staining because they lack their original pigment. To maintain their integrity:
- Avoid DIY anti-yellow treatments;
- Wash your extensions with gentle, sulfate-free shampoos;
- Use moisturizing conditioners to keep the hair soft and shiny.