The Truth About Sunscreen & Hair Extensions
Why Protecting Your Glow Starts With the Right Ingredients
At Blondie, we live for that sun-kissed glow and beachy blonde waves—but did you know your favorite sunscreen might be sabotaging your hair extensions?
Let’s break it down
The Problem: Sunscreen + Extensions Don’t Always Mix
Most sunscreens contain a chemical called Avobenzone. While it’s great for protecting your skin, it’s terrible for hair extensions—especially blonde or lighter-toned ones.
When avobenzone touches extension hair (especially wet or damp), it can cause:
- Discoloration (think brassy orange or even pinkish tones)
- Dryness and buildup on the wefts
- A strange chemical smell that won’t go away
And unfortunately, once it happens—it’s really hard to reverse.
The Ingredient to Avoid: Avobenzone
Also listed as:
- Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
- Parsol 1789
This chemical reacts with copper and minerals in water (especially in pools, oceans, or hard water showers), creating a weird reaction that stains extensions. So even just sweating with sunscreen in your hairline or wearing SPF on your shoulders can be risky.
The Solution: Mineral Sunscreen is Your Hair’s BFF
Here’s how to keep both your skin and extensions safe:
Choose a mineral-based sunscreen (aka physical sunscreen) with Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide
Always wash your hands before touching your hair after applying SPF
When at the beach or pool, tie your hair up and protect it with a silk scarf or hat
Rinse your extensions with clean water ASAP after exposure
My Favorite Extension-Safe SPFs:
- Supergoop! Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30 – lightweight and reef-safe
- Coola Mineral Face SPF 30 – perfect for face + hairlines
- Bare Republic Mineral Gel Lotion SPF 50 – great for body without greasy residue
Protect the Investment
Extensions are a luxury—and like anything luxe, they need proper care. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping your hair soft, shiny, and beautiful all summer long.
Your glow doesn’t have to come at your hair’s expense. With the right products and a few simple habits, you can have it all.
Need help finding extension-safe products? Ask me at your next appointment or shoot me a DM @toneherash—I’ve got you.
