How to Protect Your Hair from Summer Damage

If you’re living that sun-drenched Arizona lifestyle (hello, desert girls), you already know — summer in Phoenix is no joke. Between pool parties, weekend trips, and constant sunshine, your hair takes a hit. And if you wear extensions or invest in color, protecting that hair is non-negotiable.

As a custom colorist and extension specialist based in Phoenix at The Bespoke Salon, I see it every summer: dry, brittle ends, faded color, and stressed-out wefts. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few quick changes to your routine, you can keep your hair soft, shiny, and healthy - no matter how hot it gets.

Prepping Your Hair Before the Pool or Ocean

Before you head out to swim or lay poolside, you should always wet your hair with clean water first, then follow up with a lightweight leave-in conditioner. This helps seal the cuticle and prevents chlorine or salt water from absorbing into your strands — which can dry out and damage both natural hair and extensions.

My personal favorites:

• Mane Ivy Elixir: lightweight hydration + smells so good

• Divi 3-in-1 Leave-In Conditioner: clean, nourishing, and extension-safe

Mineral Sunscreen Only for Extension Clients

If you wear hand-tied extensions, please avoid chemical sunscreens. They can react with extension hair and cause discoloration, dryness, and buildup at the weft line. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens (look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide on the label). Your scalp and your extensions will thank you.

Invest in Advanced Care from Your Stylist

This summer, I’m taking my extension work even further. I’ll be completing advanced extension training in July to continue refining my technique and giving my clients even more tailored results. Because good extensions shouldn’t look like extensions. They should just look like really great hair.

If you’re looking for hand-tied extensions, I’d love to create a custom plan for your lifestyle, color, and texture. And if you’re new here — yes, I split time between Phoenix, AZ and Los Gatos, CA, but I’m based at The Bespoke Salon when I’m in town.

Your hair is an investment — and summer in the desert isn’t exactly gentle. But with the right prep, products, and stylist, you can keep your hair looking fresh, soft, and healthy all season long.

Need product recs or want to chat about your summer hair goals? Book with me at The Bespoke Salon in Phoenix or send me a DM on Instagram @clairecolors.