Your Ultimate Guide to Caring for Hair Extensions on Holiday: Slay, Stay, and Play!
It’s SUMMER, SUMMER, SUMMER TIME!
And you’ve booked your holiday, the bags are packed and your passport is in hand.
Ah, the bliss of a holiday! Sun-soaked days, beach waves, and that irresistible sense of freedom.
But if you're rocking hair extensions, there’s a little extra TLC required to keep your locks looking luscious while you live your best life. Whether you're jetting off to a tropical paradise or having a chic city getaway, here’s your ultimate guide to ensuring your extensions stay flawless from the moment you step off the plane to your last sunset selfie.
Why Hair Extensions Need Extra Care on Holiday
First things first, let’s talk about why your extensions need special attention when you’re on holiday. Hair extensions—whether they're pre-bonded, clip-ins, tape-ins, or sewn-in weaves—are essentially added weight to your natural hair. This means they’re prone to more damage, especially when exposed to the elements like sun, saltwater, sweat, and chlorine. On top of that, your regular routine is likely to change—think more time in the water, under the sun, and indulging in cocktails, which might lead to less time focusing on haircare.
But don’t worry, keeping your hair extensions in tip-top shape while you soak up the sun is easier than you think. Let’s dive into some practical tips!
Pre-Holiday Prep: Set the Stage for Success
Before you even pack your suitcase, there's some groundwork to be done. The better you prep your hair before you go, the easier it’ll be to manage on your trip.
1. Get a Fresh Install:
If possible, get your extensions refreshed before you leave. Whether it's a new set of keratin prebonded extensions, a fresh weave, or re-taping, starting your holiday with your extensions in their best condition is key. Plus, a visit to your stylist means they can give you tailored advice based on your destination.
2. Go for a Trim:
A quick trim can make a world of difference. It’s especially important to snip off any split ends that might worsen with sun exposure or saltwater. Healthy ends are less likely to tangle and more likely to keep their shape.
3. Stock Up on Essentials:
Pack your haircare essentials—sulfate-free shampoo, conditioner, leave-in treatments, and a good detangling brush. Opt for travel-sized products if you're flying. Also, consider packing a wide-brimmed hat and some chic scarves to protect your extensions from the sun.
In-Flight Haircare: Keep It Comfortable
Flights can be a bit of a disaster for hair extensions—dry cabin air, long periods of sitting, and limited movement can all lead to matted hair and scalp discomfort. Here’s how to keep your extensions comfy mid-flight.
1. Go Easy on the Styling:
Avoid tight hairstyles while flying. Opt for loose braids or a low ponytail to prevent any unnecessary pulling on your roots. If you’re wearing clip-ins, consider taking them out before the flight and storing them safely in your carry-on.
2. Stay Hydrated:
Just like your skin, your hair suffers when you’re dehydrated. Drink plenty of water during the flight and apply a little leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your extensions moisturised.
3. Use a Silk Scarf:
Wrapping your hair in a silk scarf or head wrap, not only looks chic but also protects your hair from static and friction while you’re resting your head against the seat. Plus it keeps your style looking good, ready for when you get on the tarmac!(Think Kate Middy vibes, on tour abroad.)
Sun, Sea, and Sand: The Beachy Dilemma
Now, let’s get to the fun part—sunbathing, swimming, and beach parties! While the idea of mermaid hair may be dreamy, sun, sea, sweat, and sand can be your hair extensions’ worst enemies if you’re not careful.
1. Rinse Before and After Swimming:
Whether you’re diving into the ocean or taking a dip in the pool, always rinse your hair with fresh water before and after swimming. Pre-soaking your extensions helps minimize the absorption of chlorinated or salty water. Post-swim rinsing is essential to remove any lingering chemicals or salt that can cause dryness and tangling.
2. Tie It Up:
Avoid letting your extensions flow freely in the wind or water, as this can lead to tangling. Instead, opt for braids, buns, or a high ponytail. Not only do these styles look effortlessly chic, but they also protect your extensions from unnecessary damage.
3. Protect from the Sun:
Your hair needs sun protection too! Invest in a good UV protectant spray and apply it liberally to your hair and extensions before heading out. A stylish hat or a scarf is also a great way to shield your locks from harmful UV rays, preventing them from drying out or becoming discolored.
4. Avoid Over-Washing:
It can be tempting to wash your hair daily when you’re in and out of the water, but over-washing can strip your extensions of natural oils, leading to dryness. Try to stick to a wash routine every other day or as needed, and always follow up with a nourishing conditioner.
5. Products:
I have a few must haves for your beach bag, first is small but might. Malibu C Swimmers sachets, are an all natural vitamin crystals product. They are simple to use; just pour the crystals into your hand, add water and scrunch into your hair extensions. This will remove all the nasty chemicals from the pool, and leave your extensions feeling fabulous. My second product is GL’s Anti-tap, this ingenious product works as a protector against sun, sea and sweat! How you ask?! By bring your hair and extensions back to it’s natural PH level, giving you the best shine.
Styling on Holiday: Keep It Simple and Sexy
When you’re on holiday, the last thing you want is to spend hours styling your hair. The good news is, beachy waves and tousled looks are totally in, and they’re easy to achieve with hair extensions.
1. Embrace the Beach Waves:
After a day at the beach, you might find that your hair naturally dries into beautiful, tousled waves. To enhance this look, apply a sea salt spray to your damp hair, scrunch it up, and let it air dry. Voila—effortless, beachy waves! Just make sure that if you are wearing bonds or tapes, that the attachment area is dry.
2. Heat-Free Styles:
Give your extensions a break from heat tools and try out some no-heat hairstyles. Braids, twists, or buns can create gorgeous waves and curls without the need for a curling iron or straightener. Plus, these styles are perfect for transitioning from day to night effortlessly.
3. Travel-Friendly Tools:
If you can’t live without your styling tools, opt for travel-sized versions of your favorite flat iron or curling wand. Just remember to pack a heat protectant spray to shield your extensions from damage.
4. Go Glam with Accessories:
Holiday hair is the perfect excuse to play with accessories. Think headbands, silk scarves, and even flower crowns. These can instantly elevate your look and are a great way to manage your extensions while adding a touch of holiday glam. You can even pick up a shell or two off the beach and go full little mermaid vibes.
Night Out? Keep It Chic and Tangle-Free
Whether you’re hitting up a beach bar or dining at a fancy restaurant, your extensions should be as ready to party as you are. Here’s how to keep them looking fab during your nights out.
1. Detangle Before You Head Out:
Before stepping out for the evening, take a moment to detangle your extensions with a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. Start from the bottom and work your way up to avoid breakage.
2. Secure Your Style:
If you’re going for an updo, ensure it’s secured properly but not too tightly. Loose buns, braids, or a half-up-half-down style are great options that are chic and comfortable.
3. Bedtime Prep:
After a long night, it might be tempting to crash into bed without touching your hair, but taking a few minutes to prep your extensions will save you from a morning of knots and tangles. Gently detangle your hair, braid it loosely, or wrap it in a silk scarf to protect it while you sleep.
Post-Holiday Haircare: Revive and Rejuvenate
After your holiday, your hair extensions will likely need some extra love to get them back to their pre-vacation glory. Here’s how to restore them to their best condition.
1. Deep Conditioning Treatment:
As soon as you’re back home, treat your extensions to a deep conditioning treatment. Look for masks or conditioners that are specifically designed for extensions or dry, damaged hair. Leave it on for at least 10-15 minutes to allow your hair to soak up all the moisture it lost while you were having fun in the sun. Pro Tip; For that professional level treatment, get yourself some K18. A structural repair leave-in mask, that you only need to do once every two weeks.
2. Trim If Needed:
If your extensions look a little frayed at the ends, it might be time for a trim. Even just taking off a quarter-inch can make them look fresher and more polished.
3. Revisit Your Stylist:
After a holiday, it’s always a good idea to book a follow-up appointment with your stylist. They can assess the health of your extensions, recommend any needed treatments, and reinstall or retighten your extensions if necessary.
Final Thoughts: Holiday Hair, Don’t Care (But Actually, We Do!)
Caring for hair extensions on holiday doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little preparation and the right approach, you can enjoy all the sun, sea, and sand without sacrificing your style. Remember, the key is to protect, hydrate, and style smartly. Your extensions can look just as fabulous on day one of your holiday as they do when you’re waving goodbye to the beach.
So, pack your bags, bring your haircare A-game, and get ready to make some unforgettable holiday memories—hair flips included. Safe travels, and here’s to beautiful hair wherever you go!
Key Takeaways for Your Holiday Hair Extension Care
1. Prep before you go: Get a fresh install, trim, and pack essential products.
2. Protect in-flight: Hydrate, use silk scarves, and avoid tight styles.
3. Beach care: Rinse before and after swimming, use UV protectant, and avoid over-washing.
4. Simple styling: Embrace no-heat styles, use travel-friendly tools, and accessorise.
5. Night out care: Detangle before going out, secure your style, and prep for bed.
6. Post-holiday revival: Deep condition, trim if needed, and visit your stylist.
Now you’re all set to slay your holiday with flawless hair extensions. Enjoy every moment, knowing your locks are well taken care of. Happy holidays, gorgeous!
Lots of love,
Steph XoX
