Summer in the South hits hard. Sure, there are sunny days and lake getaways. But there’s also relentless humidity, scorching temps, and the kind of sweat that laughs in the face of a blowout. Whether you’re a summer lover or more hanging in there until September, summer hair protection might be low on your priority list. But it shouldn’t be.
If you’re rocking extensions, your hair’s not just along for the ride; it’s under attack. UV rays, heat, pollution, sweat, salt water, chlorine … they all add up to faster fading, more tangling, and way less longevity.
The good news? Summer hair protection doesn’t have to be a full-time job. With a few intentional steps (and a couple of stylist-approved tricks), you can keep your hair looking flawless even when the weather’s doing the most.
☀️ Sun: It’s Not Just Your Skin That Needs SPF
We talk a lot about sunscreen for our face, but your hair—especially color-treated extensions—needs just as much protection from harmful UV rays. (Not to mention from your sunscreen … how often do you remember that the sunscreen on your face, shoulders, and back is also hanging out with your hair? Yes, we have thoughts on which sunscreen is best for extensions.)
Sunshine can dry out strands, fade color, and weaken bonds over time. 
Enter: Oribe’s Invisible Defense Universal Protection Spray. This heat + UV protectant is a Garnish favorite because it adds a weightless shield without weighing hair down or making it greasy. Use it before you head out for the day—whether you’re hitting the beach or just running errands under the summer sun.
📍 Pro Tip: Keep a travel-size bottle in your bag and mist it on mid-day like you would your face SPF.
💨 Heat: Blow Dryers, Flat Irons, and Actual Weather
Between heat tools and actual heat, your extensions are doing the most to stay smooth. But just like with your natural hair, repeated high temperatures can dry out and damage extension fibers—especially if you’re not prepping them properly.
Always use a thermal protectant (again: Oribe, for the win), and consider air drying when you can. Braids, buns, and heat-free waves are all summer-friendly styles that give your hair a rest and look effortless.
💧 Humidity: The Frizz Factor
Humidity isn’t just annoying—it can cause major swelling, frizz, and tangling, especially around your natural hair’s root area where it meets your extensions. If you’ve ever felt like your style looked amazing indoors and then went poof the second you stepped outside, this one’s for you.
Stay ahead of the frizz with a solid leave-in treatment and by layering your products with intention:
Invisible Defense Spray for UV/heat/humidity
Lightweight smoothing serum for moisture retention
Touch-up tools like a mini flat iron or boar-bristle brush to keep things sleek on-the-go
🌫️ Pollution & Sweat: The Sneaky Damage Combo
City air, smog, and even sweat can all build up on your hair and scalp, especially around the base of your extensions. The result? Irritation, buildup, and dull-looking strands.
Clarifying every wash day isn’t necessary (and can be drying), but using a gentle detoxifying shampoo weekly—plus keeping your scalp clean and your hair protected—will help preserve both your style and your install.
📍 Pro Tip: If you’re working out or spending the day outdoors, loosely braid your hair or throw on a silk scarf or UV-protectant hat to cut down on exposure and tangling.
☀️ Hot Girls Prioritize Summer Hair Protection
Summer should be full of salty breezes and sun-kissed memories, not emergency extension fixes. With the right approach to summer hair protection, you can extend the life of your install, keep your color fresh, and stay frizz-free even when the temps soar.
Need a customized care routine or want to grab our go-to protection products? Stop by the studio and let us get you set up for a worry-free summer of great hair days.
