Common summer hair extension problems and how to fix

When it comes to summer as a hair extension wearer, a lot of things can go wrong without you realising.

That quick dip you took into the pool? It could mean the difference between healthy, glossy extensions and a discoloured mess. Between chlorine, UV rays, humidity and holiday hair dramas, your extensions go through a lot.

At I’m So Pretty, we understand that you don’t want to look dishevelled in your holiday photos. That’s why we’ve listed five common summer human hair extension problems and quick fixes that you can always rely on.

You’ll be able to restore your locks so that they’re lush and turning heads once more.

Sun damage and colour fading

If you didn’t already know, it’s not just our skin we need to protect when soaking up the sun's rays.

After spending a lot of time in the sun, whether you’re abroad or sunbathing in the garden, you might notice that your hair has turned brassy blonde, developed orange undertones or just a general dullness.

Why does this happen? The UV rays can break down the pigments in your extensions, especially if they’re colour-treated. Since hair extensions don't get the same natural oils from your head, they’re more prone to drying out.

Luckily for you, there are a few things you can do to fix it.

How to fix

Use colour-safe, sulphate-free shampoo: If your hair has faded a lot from too much sun exposure, use a sulphate-free shampoo designed for coloured hair, such as Pretty aftercare hair extension shampoo. It’ll help bring those tones back to life.
Deep condition, then deep condition again: After shampooing, use Pretty aftercare hair extension conditioner to hydrate the hair. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes and wrap your hair in a warm towel as it sets in.
Cover your hair up: If you’re braving the sun again, make sure you protect your hair with a cap or headscarf. This will prevent further damage to your expensive locks.

Chlorine and saltwater strikes

Let’s face it, we all need a dip in the pool or sea when going on holiday (it would be rude not to). But, doing so without taking precautions for your hair extensions leads to chlorine damage.

Since hair extensions aren’t being fed natural oils and nutrients from your scalp, they’re more likely to soak up chemicals, salt, and minerals.

But all hope is not lost. Let’s take a look at what you can do at home.

How to fix

Rinse with cool water: If you’ve accidentally got your hair in the pool, don’t panic. Rinse your hair immediately afterwards with cool water to remove any lingering salt, chlorine, and other harmful minerals.
Deep condition like you mean it: A nourishing deep conditioning mask is a must after any swim session. Apply from mid-lengths to ends, leave on for 15–20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
Detangle with a wide-toothed comb: Chlorine and salt can cause your hair to become tangled quickly. Instead of ragging your hair out with a hard-bristled brush, apply a detangling spray, then gently comb the strands, working from the bottom to the top, with a soft-bristle brush or comb.

Makeup, sunscreen and buildup

Accidents happen. Trying to avoid getting makeup, sunscreen, or a buildup of dust and dirt in your hair during summer is a losing battle.

While you can take more caution when applying makeup or sunscreen, such as tying your hair up or using a mineral-based sunscreen labelled “hair-safe”, sometimes we forget these tips when we’re caught up in other things.

If this sounds like you, try the following.

How to fix

Gently clarify the hair: Similar to earlier, use an extension-friendly clarifying shampoo that helps to lift makeup, oils, and SPF off the hair. Apply it to the roots gently and avoid scrubbing tape or bonded areas too aggressively.
Spot-treat stains: If your hair is stained from tans or sunscreen, use a mix of clarifying shampoo and baking soda as a paste. Apply this to orange or pink patches, leaving it to sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse and follow up with a conditioner.
Soothe the scalp: If your scalp is feeling itchy and irritated from all the products you’ve been using, try a soothing scalp treatment or aloe-based gel. Apply the product to a cotton pad and gently wipe around your hairline and bonding areas to remove any leftover product.

Heat + frizz + dehydration

The trio of nightmares: you’re probably all too familiar with heat, frizz, and dehydration in the summer.

Between heatwaves, sweaty skin, sticky air and back-to-back styling for events, holidays and bottomless brunches, your extensions are going through a lot. But where does the frizz and dehydration actually come from?

Heat exposure (from the sun and hot styling tools) opens the hair cuticle, leaving strands rough, dry and vulnerable to breakage.
Dehydration from lack of moisture and over-styling, leading to dull, lifeless hair.
Humidity causes moisture in the air to enter your hair, lifting the cuticle and creating frizz.

So, it’s time to give your extensions some TLC.

How to fix

Hydrate!: Look for a leave-in deep moisture mask with coconut oil, aloe vera, or argan oil to repair your hair to its glossy shine. Always apply from mid-lengths down and steer clear of bonds or tape tabs. You can even tie your hair back and leave the conditioner in while sipping cocktails by the pool.
Air dry over styling: Put down the hair straighteners and curlers (we can see you). Give your extensions a breather and allow them to air dry after washing. You can even braid your hair while damp to wake up with beachy waves in the morning.
Fight frizz with the right products: If your hair looks like you’ve stuck your hand in a socket, then you need something that will smooth it down without adding extra weight. A silicone-free, lightweight smoothing cream or anti-humidity spray will help tame flyaways and block moisture.
Use a nourishing oil: Slowly recover from heat damage by using a lightweight hair oil (like argan or jojoba) daily. Add it to the ends of your hair to restore shine and help seal split or rough ends (avoid the roots).

Tension and traction worries

Have you been slicking your hair back every day just to get it out of your face this summer?

Tight hairstyles, sunglasses, caps, headphones (you name it!) all put extra tension on your extensions during the summer. Over time, that tension can lead to sore spots, pulling, slippage or even traction alopecia.

You’ll know you’re dealing with tension issues if you have any of the following:

Itching or tightness at the roots
Extension bonds slipping or loosening prematurely
A sore scalp near bonds, clips or tapes
Breakage or thinning
Redness or flaking around the hairline

How to fix

Tie your hair in loose hairstyles: It can be tempting to tie up your hair so it's tight to your scalp (it looks classy after all), but this is causing damage to your bonds. Instead, opt for loose braids and low buns. Read our blog on hair extension styles for summer for more ideas!
Soothe the scalp: If you’re dealing with soreness and itchy spots, apply a cooling scalp serum or aloe-based spray before bed to calm any inflammation. Massage it in gently with your fingertips to increase blood flow to the area.
Check your bonds: If your extensions are slipping or pulling on your hair, visit your stylist for a refit or repositioning. This will make sure they’re back in the right place, reducing tension and bringing life back to your hair.

Look oh so pretty this summer with us

Are you dreaming of beautiful, voluminous locks that’ll last you more than a few weeks?

If so, I’m So Pretty is here to make all of your dreams come true. With our stunning selection of 100% real human hair extensions, you can find the perfect colour, length, and shade for you.

Not sure what colour you are? Our quick and professional colour matching service will have you paired with your ideal shade in no time.

Prepare for hot girl summer or get your glow-up in time for your Euro trip with I’m So Pretty today.