June 16 2025

Summer Hair Extension Care Tips from White Oak Hair Co.

Longer days, sunshine, pool parties, and beachside getaways, summer is the season of living beautifully. But while you’re soaking up the sun and enjoying everything the season has to offer, your hair extensions might be feeling the heat. At White Oak Hair Co., we want you to feel effortlessly confident all season long. That’s why we’ve created this essential guide to summer hair extension care so your look stays just as polished and luxurious as the day you stepped out of our salon.

Whether you’re rocking hand-tied wefts, tape-ins, or another method customized by your stylist, a little seasonal TLC goes a long way in keeping your hair (and your investment!) in peak condition.

Why Summer Calls for Extra Extension Care

Extensions are a beautiful way to add volume, length, and texture, but just like your natural hair, they can be sensitive to environmental factors, especially in summer. Here’s what we’re up against:

• Sun exposure can dry and fade both natural and extension hair.
  

• Saltwater and chlorine can weaken bonds and dry out strands.
  

• Heat and sweat can cause matting and tangling if not managed properly.

The key is prevention and protection. With a few small changes to your routine, you can keep your hair looking like it’s fresh from the salon chair even after a long weekend outdoors.

1. Protect Before You Play: Sunscreen for Your Strands

Your skin isn’t the only thing that needs SPF this summer. UV rays can dull the shine and color of your extensions, especially if they’re color-treated. Before heading outside:

1. Apply a UV-protectant hair spray designed specifically for extensions or color-treated hair. Ask your stylist for a product recommendation from our salon-grade collection.
   

2. Wear a hat or scarf when possible for added physical protection from direct sunlight.
   

3. Avoid lying in the sun with wet hair, which is more vulnerable to breakage and tangling.

2. Wet Wisely: Pool and Ocean Extension Tips

Water fun is a must in the summer, but for extension wearers, it requires a few extra steps:

1. Braid or secure your hair before swimming to minimize tangling.
   

2. Rinse your hair with clean water before swimming to prevent it from soaking up chlorinated or salty water like a sponge.
   

3. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a protective barrier.
   

4. After swimming, gently rinse and detangle as soon as possible. Don’t let pool or ocean water sit in your extensions for hours.

3. Wash Gently, Dry Thoroughly

In summer, more frequent washing might be necessary thanks to sweat, sunscreen, and extra styling products. Just make sure your routine is extension-friendly:

1. Use sulfate-free, hydrating shampoos and conditioners to maintain moisture.
   

2. Never scrub aggressively at the roots or bonds massage gently instead.
   

3. Wash your hair in lukewarm water, not hot, which can dry out the strands.
   

4. After washing, air-dry the roots partially, then blow-dry the bonds and wefts to avoid mildew or slippage.

4. Styling with Heat? Less Is More

Summer already brings the heat, so go easy on your hot tools. Hair extensions don’t benefit from your scalp’s natural oils like your real hair does, so they can dry out more easily.

• Embrace air-drying and heatless styling methods like braids, buns, or flexi rods.
  

• When using heat, apply a thermal protectant and avoid placing heat directly on the bonds or tapes.
  

• Let summer waves work in your favor—our stylists can show you how to enhance your natural texture for effortless, beachy looks.

5. Nighttime Protection Is a Must

Warm nights and ceiling fans can cause hair to tangle while you sleep. Here’s how to keep your extensions silky overnight:

• Always brush and loosely braid your hair before bed.
  

• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction.
  

• Avoid sleeping with wet hair, it’s one of the fastest ways to damage your bonds and encourage matting.

Love Your Look All Summer Long

Hair extensions are an investment in your confidence, and with the right care, they’ll keep you glowing from sunup to sundown. Whether you’re lakeside, beach-bound, or enjoying patio season with your favorite iced drink, a little mindful maintenance ensures your style stays gorgeous.

Need a refresh? Book your summer maintenance appointment or extension consultation with White Oak Hair Co. today. Let’s make this your best hair season yet. Visit White Oak Hair Co. at 279 Egg Harbor Road, Unit 7 in Sewell, or give us a call at (856) 478-8599 to schedule your appointment.