Sunscreen Essentials for Hair Extension Wearers

You’ve just escaped a pretty cold winter, you’re now at a tropical beachy getaway with your loved ones celebrating warmer days ahead + finally getting a break from gray skies. You want to protect your skin from the sun after not being able to go outside for months, SO you reach for your trusted sunscreen spray unknowingly putting avobenzone on yourself harming not only your skin in the long run but also turning your hair extensions PINK. There is a better way - save your hair extensions.

Avobenzone is a UVA blocking chemical compound found in many sunscreens. It’s liked for it’s longevity on the skin, however it is a nightmare on hair extensions! Sometimes Avobenzone wrecked hair extensions can be clarified, but this isn’t a promise.

Why Mineral Sunscreen?

Before diving into specific product recommendations, it’s important to understand the difference between mineral sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that physically block UV rays by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting them away. These sunscreens are often considered safer for sensitive skin and hair because:

•Non-toxic and gentler: Mineral sunscreens are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical sunscreens, which contain ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone that can sometimes irritate the skin.

• Longer-lasting protection: They offer immediate sun protection after application, unlike chemical sunscreens, which need about 20 minutes to absorb and start working.

• Less residue and buildup: Mineral sunscreens are often less likely to leave a greasy or sticky residue that could transfer to your hair extensions.

On the other hand, chemical sunscreens often contain more synthetic ingredients that can cause build-up + chemically color them pink , especially if the sunscreen comes into contact with your hairline or any of your strands.

To protect my own skin + keep my hair extensions from looking like Strawberry Shortcake, I use mineral based sunscreens. Here’s a few of my favorites!

• Sunbum - mineral based only

• All Good

• Bare Republic - mineral based only

• Coppertone Pure and Simple

All can be found in my Amazon storefront here - https://amzn.to/3Dr5AIt

Save your hair - use mineral based sunscreen on your spring break + beyond!