Summer Hair Care Q&A: How to Protect Your Natural Hair Extensions

Summer hair care is all about long days, sunshine, and letting your curls live freely.

But if you’re wearing natural hair extensions, a little extra care can go a long way when it comes to keeping them looking fresh and moisturized.

Today we will discuss how you can make sure your natural hair extensions stay looking cute for the whole summer and beyond.

From clip-ins to full installs, here’s how to give your natural hair the treatment it deserves all season long.

Can I swim with my curly hair extensions?

Yes, you can, but you need to be prepared.

Chlorine and saltwater are harsh on all hair, especially curly hair extensions made of real human hair.

Before diving in, give your hair a good soak with fresh water. This helps limit how much salt or chlorine your extensions absorb.

Once your hair is wet, gently detangle with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb and apply a leave-in conditioner or moisturizing spray. Then secure your hair in a few large braids or twists. This keeps your curls contained and cuts down on post-swim tangling.

Should I wear a swim cap?

We recommend it, especially if you're swimming often. A snug swim cap adds an extra layer of protection and helps prevent your extensions from drying out or matting. If you’re worried about the look, coordinate your cap with your swimsuit for a fun, confident vibe. Protection and style can go hand in hand.

What should I do after I swim?

Rinse your hair as soon as possible with lukewarm water. Don’t wait until the end of the day. Letting chlorine or saltwater dry into your hair can leave your extensions stiff and tangle-prone. After rinsing, follow up with a sulfate-free shampoo and a hydrating conditioner. Do not sleep on your wet hair, you will thank us later. 

Need help finding the right care routine? Read our step-by-step guide on Caring for Your blūm Extensions.

Can I wear my clip-ins to the beach?

Absolutely. Clip-ins are a great summer option because they’re easy to install and remove. But if you’re spending a long day outside, it’s a good idea to wear your hair in a protective style—like a bun, braid, or half-up twist.

Once you’re home, remove your clip-ins, gently detangle them, and store them properly in a blūm Beauty Tote or Clutch. This helps keep your hair in great condition between wears.

How often should I wash my hair during summer?

That depends on your activity level and how often you're using products. A good rule of thumb is every one to two weeks. If you’ve been sweating more than usual or swimming, you may want to cleanse more often. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping moisture, and always follow up with a rich conditioner.

Should I avoid heat styling?

You don’t need to avoid it completely, but try to minimize how often you reach for hot tools. Natural hair extensions respond best to air drying, especially curlier textures like Silva, Onye, and Staci. If you do use a blow dryer, attach a diffuser and set the heat to low.

Letting your hair air dry flat on a towel is always a safe bet—no curl disruption, no heat damage, just soft and defined texture.

What can I do to fight summer frizz?

Humidity is part of summer life, but it doesn’t have to ruin your style. Use curl creams or styling foams that provide hold without heaviness. Refresh your curls with a water and leave-in conditioner mix in a spray bottle. A satin scarf at night will help your style last longer and prevent your texture from flattening out as you sleep.

Can I wear the same style all season?

Protective styles are perfect for summer, but it’s best not to leave them in too long. Try to switch things up every six to eight weeks. This gives your scalp a break and gives you a chance to deep-clean your extensions and natural hair. Clip-ins and drawstring ponytails are great options for alternating your look without starting from scratch.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your natural hair and human hair extensions in summer doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little intention, your curls can thrive through the heat, humidity, and every adventure in between. Stick to lightweight, moisture-rich products, rinse after swimming, and always give your extensions time to breathe and reset.

And if you're ever unsure what texture best matches your natural hair, we’ve got a full texture guide to help you find your fit.

Have a question we didn’t answer here? Reach out to the blūm team or tag us on Instagram at @blumbyteyonah with your favorite summer styles. We’d love to feature your look.

Ready to keep your curls glowing through summer? Let’s do it—together.