The Summer Hair Survival Guide: Protecting Your Locks from Sun, Salt & Chlorine
As the temperatures rise, so does our time spent soaking up the sun—and while summer brings all the carefree vibes we love, it also comes with some not-so-fun side effects for your hair. Chlorine, UV rays, and even your favorite sunscreen can wreak havoc on your strands (and especially on extensions). At Charles Ifergan, we’re here to help you enjoy your best summer ever—without sacrificing your hair’s health or style.
Here’s how to protect your hair during the season of sun, sweat, and SPF with stylist-approved products and insider tips you’ll want to bookmark ASAP.
The Problem: “Pool Hair” & Sunscreen
Let’s talk about two of the biggest culprits behind summertime damage: chlorine and sunscreen.
Chlorine Damage
A dip in the pool may feel amazing but chlorine can strip your hair of moisture, protein, and color. For blondes, it can even leave behind an unwanted green tinge. Over time, chlorine exposure leads to dry, brittle ends and dull, lifeless hair.
STYLIST TIP: Rinse your hair with clean water before swimming. Hair absorbs less chlorine when it’s already wet! And always rinse right after swimming if you aren’t shampooing right away!
Sunscreen Transfer
While sunscreen is non-negotiable for your skin, certain formulas (especially those with avobenzone or heavy oils) can transfer onto your hairline and extensions, causing buildup and even discoloration. This is especially noticeable in lighter shades and blonde extensions where sunscreen can lead to dullness or an orange/pink cast over time.
PRO TIP: When applying sunscreen, avoid spraying directly near your scalp or hairline. Instead, try a product designed specifically for hair and scalp protection, like COOLA Scalp & Hair Mist SPF 30 – it protects without compromising your color.
The Solution: Your Summer Haircare Essentials
To keep your hair shiny, soft, and strong all summer long, here are our go-to products:
Oribe Imperméable Anti-Humidity Spray
Anti-humidity finishing spray shields hair from frizz on the sultriest of days (and nights), protecting sleek blowouts and perfect curls alike. Miami-tested.
R+Co Sun Catcher Power C Boosting Leave-In Conditioner
This lightweight leave-in is rich in Vitamin C and hydrating botanicals to protect against UV damage and environmental stressors. It’s a must-have in your beach bag.
Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Remedy
A weekly treatment that removes chlorine, minerals, and pool buildup without stripping color- perfect for swimmers or anyone spending time in hard water.
Extension Lovers: Summer Dos & Don’ts
Hair extensions and summer fun can go hand in hand- you just need the right care routine. Whether you’re wearing hand-tied, keratin, or tape-ins, follow these warm-weather dos and don’ts to keep them in top shape:
Do:
• Keep them moisturized. Use a nourishing, sulfate-free hair mask weekly to keep both your natural hair and extensions hydrated. We love Kérastase Nutritive Masquintense for its rich, silky formula that strengthens without weighing down.
•Brush regularly and gently. An extension-safe brush helps prevent matting- especially after swimming.
•Braid before bed or swimming. A loose braid helps minimize tangling and keeps extension bonds from getting overly saturated.
DoN’T:
•Don’t sleep on wet hair. Always dry your hair thoroughly (especially at the roots and around extensions) to prevent matting and tension on your scalp.
•Don’t spray sunscreen directly near your extensions. The oils in sunscreen can loosen adhesive and cause buildup.
•Don’t over-wash or over-clarify. While it’s important to remove chlorine and salt, you don’t want to dry out your hair or your extensions, use a clarifying shampoo like Kenra Clarifying Shampoo once a week, and always follow up with deep hydration.
Summer Hair, But Make It Healthy
At Charles Ifergan, we believe your summer hair should be just as effortless and radiant as your vacation plans. Whether you’re prepping for beach season, protecting new color, or maintaining extensions, our expert stylists are here to set you up with personalized care routines and the best salon-grade products.
Book a summer gloss treatment, grab your sun-friendly essentials, and let’s make sure your hair looks as good in August as it did in June.
Sun exposure, heat, and humidity can lead to dryness, frizz, and even breakage. However, increased blood flow from warmer temperatures can also stimulate hair growth.
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