Let’s Talk Summer Hair

Oregon summers bring their own magic—long daylight hours, scenic river days, and enough dry heat to throw your usual hair routine out of whack. And while summer might be your favorite time to lighten up, relax more, and soak in the sun, your hair doesn’t always love the seasonal shift.

Between UV rays, chlorine, heat styling, and dry air, summer can take a toll on your strands—especially if you wear extensions or have color-treated hair. But don’t stress: at NOVA STRANDS Salon in Wilsonville, OR, we specialize in hair that looks as good as it feels, all year round. Here’s your ultimate guide to keeping your hair healthy, hydrated, and vacation-ready.

Sun’s Out = Hair’s Protected

First things first—your hair needs SPF, too. The same way you lather up your skin to prevent sunburn, you’ve got to protect your hair and scalp from UV damage. Sun exposure can weaken your strands, fade your color, and dry everything out (especially those gorgeous extensions).

Our favorite ways to protect your hair from the sun:

• Wear a hat or silk scarf: Not only are they cute and classic, but they shield your scalp and hair from direct rays.
  
• Use a UV protectant spray: We recommend two favorites available at our Wilsonville salon:
  
  • Oribe Invisible Defense Universal Protection Spray – A weightless mist that provides 450°F heat protection while shielding hair from UV rays and environmental stressors. It’s perfect for daily use on natural hair and extensions.
    
  • Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray – While technically a styling spray, it’s packed with UV protection and conditioning agents that lock in moisture and shine. A great multi-tasker for sun-filled days.
    

Both are extension-safe, color-friendly, and luxe enough to make you feel like your hair is on vacation—even if you’re just running errands.

Need help deciding which is best for your hair goals? Just ask your stylist at your next appointment.

Pre-Swim Routine

Before you dive into that pool or paddleboard the Willamette, take a minute to prep your hair. Dry hair is super absorbent—so when you jump into chlorine or salt water, it soaks it all right up.

Here’s how to prep your hair:

• Rinse with fresh water first. Hair soaked with clean water won’t absorb as much chlorine or salt.
  
• Smooth on a leave-in conditioner or nourishing oil. Oribe’s Run-Through Detangling Primer is a salon favorite—it conditions, detangles, and shields against UV and moisture loss.
  
• Secure your hair in a braid or low ponytail. It minimizes tangling and helps your extensions stay intact and tangle-free. Bonus: you’ll end the day with beautiful waves.
  

This tip is especially important if you wear extensions. Proper care before and after swimming can dramatically extend the life of your wefts and keep your blend looking seamless.

After the Pool? Time to Wash and Nourish

Your post-swim rinse is just as important. Once you’re done soaking in the sun, it’s time to rinse out the day and restore your hair’s balance.

• Rinse ASAP: As soon as you’re out of the water, rinse thoroughly with clean, cool water to remove chlorine or salt.
  
• Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo: Try Oribe’s Signature Shampoo—it’s gentle yet effective, and totally safe for extensions.
  
• Follow with a hydrating mask or conditioner: We love the Oribe Gold Lust Transformative Masque for restoring moisture and shine after long days in the sun or pool.
  

Pro Tip: Always detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb or your fingers while hair is wet. Start at the ends and work up to avoid unnecessary tension or breakage.

Want personalized product picks for your exact hair type? Your stylist at NOVA STRANDS Wilsonville is happy to help you build the perfect summer routine.

Summer Styles That Work With (Not Against) Your Hair

If you’ve ever tried to flat iron your way through an Oregon summer festival or a lakeside breeze, you know it’s a losing battle. Summer is the perfect time to embrace effortless, protective styles that keep your hair up, off your face, and out of the way of sun and sweat.

Some of our go-tos?

• Loose braids or bubble ponies: Super cute, super practical, and easy to pull off.
  
• Messy buns or low twists: Protect your ends and minimize tangling—especially if you’re wearing extensions.
  
• Silk scrunchies and clips: Less breakage, more style.
  

The Golden Rule: Hydrate from the Inside Out

No amount of product can replace what hydration and good nutrition do for your hair. Summer heat means we’re sweating more and often drinking less water—two things that can show up in dull, brittle strands.

Make sure to:

• Drink plenty of water (like, more than you think you need).
  
• Load up on hair-loving nutrients like omega-3s, vitamin E, and biotin from foods like avocados, berries, leafy greens, and salmon.
  

Great hair starts with a healthy foundation—so nourish those strands from the inside.

Let NOVA STRANDS Be Your Summer Haircare Partner

Whether you’re paddleboarding on the river, exploring Oregon wine country, or flying off on your next adventure, your hair deserves to enjoy the ride. At NOVA STRANDS Salon in Wilsonville, Oregon, we specialize in customized color, beaded row extensions, and personalized routines that make every season your best hair season.

Book your summer refresh at NOVA STRANDS Wilsonville today. Whether you need a deep treatment, new wefts, or just want to ask your stylist about your vacation routine, we’re here to help.

Click here to book your appointment or consultation for hair extensions.