Research Report: Effective Solutions for Treating Discolouration in Blonde Hair Extensions

At Zen Luxury Extensions, we understand that maintaining the perfect blonde tone can be challenging—especially during the summer when heat, UV exposure, and environmental factors take their toll. To ensure our customers receive the highest quality care, we conducted extensive tests on several treatment products under the careful supervision of our in-house expert tester, Shannon Pardoe and Brand Ambassador, Stephen Eales. With years of experience in hair care, Shannon and Stephen’s meticulous approach and passion for maintaining pristine hair have been key in evaluating our solutions.

Testing Methodology

We tried numerous treatment testers to address common issues such as unwanted orange and pink tones on blonde hair extensions.

Our process included:

• Multiple Testers: We evaluated different formulations designed to neutralise discolouration.

• Controlled Conditions: Each tester was applied under consistent conditions, including protective application techniques such as plastic wrap and controlled heat exposure (45 minutes).

• Pairing with Hard Water Treatment: We also tested the impact of using a Hard Water Sachet alongside the blonde treatment to counteract mineral build-up.

• Visual and Quantitative Assessment: We measured each product’s efficacy in reducing brassiness under various lighting conditions and recorded comparative results.

Our Findings

After extensive testing, these are the two products that we have narrowed down to:

Malibu C Blonde Sachet:

This treatment removed approximately 80% of the unwanted tones. When used with plastic wrap and heat for 45 minutes, it significantly reduced the brassy hues, although a slight residual tone remained in some lighting conditions. We observed that pairing it with our Hard Water Sachet further improved the results.

Malibu CPR Sachet:

Although this sachet also helped remove discolouration, our tests showed about 70% efficacy in reducing the orange/pink tones. Its process involves shaking it to activate into a gel, then applying it under similar conditions (plastic wrap and 45 minutes of heat). While effective, its performance did not quite match the Malibu C Blonde treatment.

Understanding the Results

Why does discolouration occur in the first place? Blonde hair extensions are particularly susceptible to environmental stresses due to:

UV Exposure and Sunbeds:

Prolonged exposure to natural sunlight and sunbeds can break down delicate pigments. Even controlled sunbed sessions can contribute to discolouration, as the intense UV rays weaken the hair’s protective cuticle.

Heat Styling and Environmental Heat:

Excessive heat, whether from styling tools or environmental conditions, damages the hair cuticle, allowing colour to fade or shift.

Hard Water and Product Build-Up:

Minerals in hard water, combined with residues from styling products and sunscreens (especially those containing chemicals like avobenzone), can also alter the desired tone.

Our results indicate that combining treatments—specifically, using the Malibu C Blonde Sachet with a Hard Water Sachet—provides the best balance between effective discolouration removal and gentle care.

Final Recommendations

While no single treatment can completely eliminate all unwanted discolouration, our research confirms that a consistent aftercare routine is key—particularly for blonde hair extensions during the challenging summer months.

We recommend:

1. Using the Malibu C Blonde Sachet:

   Apply under plastic wrap with controlled heat for 45 minutes to remove up to 80% of brassy tones.

2. Pairing with a Hard Water Sachet:

   This combination improves overall results by addressing mineral build-up that could affect the colour balance.

3. Maintaining a Regular Aftercare Routine:

   Consistent care, gentle washing, and careful handling are essential for preserving the vibrancy and integrity of your blonde extensions.

By integrating these steps into your hair care regimen, you can significantly reduce discolouration and enjoy flawless, vibrant blonde extensions throughout the summer.

For any further advice or personalised product recommendations, please contact our customer care team. We’re committed to helping you maintain the highest quality and beauty in every strand.

Zen Luxury Extensions Research Team