Your blonde extensions are glowing—and we want to keep them that way!
But most people don’t know that certain ingredients in their favorite sunscreen could be affecting their gorgeous color.
We’re talking about discoloration, dullness, or even brassiness caused by chemical reactions between sunscreen and extension hair. But don’t worry—we’ve got you.
The Problem: Chemical Sunscreens + Blonde Hair Don’t Mix.
Some sunscreen ingredients can react with blonde and color-treated extensions, causing unwanted discoloration—think dull green or orange tones. Who are the biggest culprits?
❌ Ingredients to Avoid in Your Sunscreen
- Avobenzone
- Octocrylene
- Oxybenzone
- Homosalate
- Octinoxate
- Spray sunscreens (even mineral-based ones often contain drying alcohols)
- Hair oils with chemical UV filters
These chemical UV filters absorb into your skin and can also absorb into your extensions, leading to fading or discoloration.
What to Use Instead: Go Mineral
✅ Safe Sunscreen Ingredients for Extensions:
- Zinc Oxide
- Titanium Dioxide
These mineral-based sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them, meaning they’re much less likely to mess with your blonde or bright extensions.
Pro Tips for Protecting Your Extensions in the Sun:
- 💧 Apply sunscreen to your body with clean hands—then wash your hands before touching your hair.
- 🧴 Use leave-in conditioners or UV-protecting sprays made for color-treated hair (ensure they’re free of chemical UV filters).
- 🌊 Rinse hair after swimming in pools or oceans to remove sunscreen, salt, and chlorine.
- 👒 Opt for physical sun protection—hats, scarves, or a shady spot whenever possible.
Our Favorite Mineral Sunscreens (Stylist-Approved!)
These are all gentle, extension-safe options we love to recommend:
- Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50+ – Zinc-based, reef-safe, super protective
- EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 41 – Lightweight, tinted or non-tinted
- Badger Mineral Sunscreen – Organic ingredients, great for sensitive skin
- Thinkbaby / Thinksport Sunscreen – Kid-safe, active-friendly, no harmful filters
- COOLA Mineral Face SPF 30/50 (Fragrance-Free) – Chic, lightweight, and effective
- Beautycounter Countersun Mineral – Clean beauty vibes + strong sun protection
- Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc – Great for littles, gentle enough for extensions
Not Sure If Your Sunscreen Is Safe? Bring It In!
If you’re unsure what’s in your product, we’ll check the label for you at your next appointment. Your hair is an investment—we’re here to help you protect it!
Thinking about hair extensions? Come in for a consultation.
