When the UK is gripped by a heatwave, our go-to hair styles can go out of the window. Between sweaty commutes, unexpected sunburn, and the challenge of sleeping in a hot bedroom, it’s no wonder our hair can feel like one more thing to fight with.
And for those of us with extensions, the hot weather can also bring up more questions. Will they stay on in the humidity? How do I stop them from looking frizzy or heavy?
Well, lucky for you, you can wear your extensions all summer long! It's all about picking the right style and keeping them well-maintained with a little extra love. Extensions add more volume and length to easy updos and they make you look more put together when you’re feeling too hot and sweaty.
The heat doesn’t have to keep you from having shiny, nourished, and above all, comfortable hair. In our guide, we’ll go overhow to style extensions using our favourite summer hairstyles that are not only summer-ready, but heat and humidity-resistant. From humidity-proof buns to effortless ponytails, there are so many ways to style your SWAY extensions that can keep up (and thrive) all summer long!
Why Heat-Friendly Styles Matter When Wearing Extensions
It might sound strange to wear hair extensions in a heatwave. Especially if you’ve had problems with sticky roots, extra-heavy styles, and the uncontrollable frizz that comes with summer heat. But the reality is that, if you learnhow to style extensions and maintain your extensions properly, they can become your ultimate best friend in the heat.
When it’s hot out, your scalp is already working hard, producing oil and sweat. That's bad news for your extensions (particularly if you have them done semi-permanently with methods like nano, tape-in, or weft extensions).
Here at SWAY, our extensions are made from the best quality human hair, which means they are light, breathable, and easier to style than synthetic. You can blend them with your natural hair, allowing you to style them into any heatwave-ready look you want without worrying about visible bonds or unnatural finishes. But even the best quality extensions need a little extra TLC when it comes to weather, which is why the styling is important.
The Sleek Low Bun: The Ultimate Heatwave Hero
Why it Works in Hot Weather
One of our favourite things about the low bun is that it is an incredibly easy style that’s super flattering on everyone. You get to keep your hair tucked away from your face, leaving you cool and comfortable.
And since SWAY Hair extensions are designed to be invisible, they blend right in to give you a luscious fullness without any awkward bumps. We especially love this look with our SWAY nano or tape-in hair extensions.
How to Get the Look
First, comb through your hair and extensions to get rid of any tangles. If you have a lot of frizz, apply SWAY hair oil to keep your hair shiny and frizz-free.
Part your hair down the middle or to the side and pull it back behind your neck. Twirl your hair into a bun and tie it off with a hair tie or bobby pins.
For a fancier look, smooth the front pieces with a flat iron, keeping the heat at a maximum of 180 degrees. You can also wrap a piece of hair around your hair tie to cover it and make you look presentable. This is great for second-day hair and weather-proof on the stickiest of summer nights.
Braided Styles: Cool, Chic and Sweat-Resistant
The Braided Crown
When learninghow to style extensions for the summer, a braided crown is a beautiful option for those sweltering summer days when you still want something girly and feminine. It looks great and keeps your hair out of your face and off your shoulders. It's perfect for those summer days when you are outside working in the garden or going to a party.
All you need to do is section your hair in two and braid each of them. You can then wrap them around the top of your head, pinning as you go. Thanks to the volume that SWAY hair extensions provide, your braids will look thick, voluminous, and really eye-catching.
Boxer Braids or Double Plaits
For something more casual and sporty, box braids or double plaits are the way to go. They keep your hair secure even if you're on the move, walking to work, working out, or running errands in the sun. This is also a style that reduces friction on the scalp, which is a real lifesaver when trying to protect your extensions from heat damage.
SWAY extensions give the perfect amount of length and fullness to take a basic braid and turn it into something really eye-catching. Finish it off with SWAY's Hair Hero to help keep your hair smooth and manageable on those hot and humid days.
Ponytails That Can Handle the Heat
High Ponytail
A high ponytail is sleek, powerful, and convenient when it's heating up outside. Your hair will be out of your back and away from your face so you can enjoy some much-needed relief from the heat.
Begin by placing your natural hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a strong hair band. Now add your SWAY extensions around the base for volume and length. Smooth down the front with a dab of hair oil to improve your hair's natural beauty!
Mid and Low Ponytails
Not in the mood for a high pony? You can keep it simple and cute with a low or mid pony!
After you brush your hair, use SWAY hair oil to keep the frizz down (even more so if it’s humid outside). Make sure your extensions are well blended so it looks natural.
A low pony is easy and the perfect style to do if you’re going to work, brunching with a friend, or if you’re staying home and just want to look more presentable. It’s low-key, low maintenance, and you can spice it up with a silk scrunchie, a cute claw clip, or even a printed head wrap.
Summer Hair Care Tips to Make Your Extensions Last!
Even with the best styles, taking care of your hair extensions in hot weather is essential if you want them to stay looking fresh.
First, even when tempted by hot temperatures, never let your extensions air dry. Using the AIRE flow digital hair dryer, dry your extensions, making sure the temperature of your hair dryer doesn't exceed 180 degrees.
Use a lightweight sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that won’t strip your hair or extensions. If you are going to be out in the sun, try using a heat protectant spray beforehand. You can also sleep with your hair in a loose braid or ponytail and use a silk pillowcase to prevent your hair from frizzing while you sleep.
Embrace the Heatwave With Confidence With SWAY Extensions
Heat isn’t the only challenge of summer, it’s also the humidity. Add the stickiness of it all and the never-ending heat, and your go-to style isn’t doing you any favours. Your hair is frizzing, your roots are weak, and none of your styles stay put.
But with the right approach (and a few tricks), your hair can survive anything. When it comes to your summer style, it’s all about picking looks that work with the heat and humidity, not against them.
Whether you’re looking for a sleek pony, fun braid, or easy top knot, it’s all about the technique and your SWAY hair extensions! These styles will make sure your hair looks as good as it should, no matter what the weather!
How to Style Extensions: FAQs
1. Can I wear extensions in hot weather?
Yes! SWAY extensions are made from high quality human hair that is breathable and lightweight. Always be careful when styling and caring for your extensions to avoid tangling and dryness.
2. What’s the best hairstyle for hot days?
The best hairstyle for hot days are a sleek low bun or high ponytail for low maintenance, all day hold that will keep your hair off your neck and minimise sweat. Braids are another great option for heat resistance and all day hold.
3. How do I keep my extensions from frizzing in humidity?
Apply SWAY's Hair Hero or Hair Oil before styling and stick to humidity-friendly styles like buns and braids. You should sleep on a silk pillowcase and avoid brushing your hair when it’s dry to prevent static and breakage.
4. Do I need to wash my extensions more in the summer?
In the summer, you may need to refresh your roots a little more often, especially if you’re sweating. SWAY's Hydrate System is equipped with hydrating shampoo, conditioner, hydrating mask, hair oil, and heat protectant spray to keep your extensions healthy all summer long.
