Can You Go Swimming Wearing Hair Extensions?

Can You Go Swimming Wearing Hair Extensions?

Summer has arrived and many of us can’t wait to hit the beach or pool and get a tan. But many fashion-conscious people may be wondering: Can I swim with Hair Extensions? The answer is "yes." For those who have invested a lot of time and money in their hair, this is great news, but it depends on the type of water you’re swimming in and how well you take care of your extensions. It is not recommended to swim in seawater, however chlorinated and freshwater is fine.

Can You Swim With Hair Extensions?

As mentioned above, a variety of factors determine whether you can swim with hair extensions. These factors include how you look after your extensions, and the type of water your extensions will be in. 

In Chlorine

You can swim in chlorine water with hair extensions. This means that you won’t need to worry much about your hair extensions if you’re travelling abroad for a typical “pool holiday”. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t have to keep on top of your hair care maintenance. 

Making sure your hair extensions are conditioned before swimming is the first and most crucial step in caring for them while you swim. Use a conditioner made specifically for hair extensions because regular conditioners can lead to build-up and a tangled mess, which is something no one wants. 

In Fresh Water

Are beaches and pools not your thing? Perhaps the picturesque lakes of Scotland or Wales are more appealing to you. If that’s the case and you plan on embracing your inner dare-devil and jumping in and out of lakes and cliff jumping from incredible heights, know that you can swim with hair extensions in freshwater.

Swimming with hair extensions in fresh water follows the same rules as swimming in chlorine: condition, condition and more conditioning!

How Do You Protect Your Hair Extensions When Swimming?

When travelling, whether to a seaside town, abroad, or for a weekend in the Peak District, the keys to keeping your hair extensions looking their best are planning and protection.

Here are 3 ways you can protect your hair extensions when swimming.

Wear a Swimming Cap

It may not be the most fashionable option, but it is certainly the most effective. Your hair will be out of reach of water in a swimming cap, meaning you won’t have to worry about what to do to ensure your extensions remain healthy.

Tie Your Hair Up (Not in a Ponytail)

Braids or a low bun are the ultimate go-to for swimming with hair extensions. This is because, unlike a ponytail, your hair will be completely out of the way and won’t be at risk of getting wet. Additionally, unlike high hairstyles, low hairstyles do not tug on your extensions.

Condition Your Hair Before You Swim

You should wet your hair with clean water and apply conditioner to your extensions 2″- 5″ down from the attachment before going swimming. Then, when you are in the water, try to keep your hair above the water when possible. 

Note that you should avoid conditioning the attachment area. This could cause the attachment to slip out of place and require re-attachment. 

How to Look After Your Extensions After Swimming

Thoroughly Dry Your Hair Immediately After Swimming

Your hair extensions’ bonds may weaken if they get wet. So, it’s essential to completely dry your hair after swimming to avoid any damage. Remember to blow dry your extensions with a hairdryer rather than letting them air dry. Depending on the type of extension, this could affect the attachment. 

Address Any Knots Straight Away With the Correct Brush

After you’ve had a few laps of swimming, address any knots right away to avoid any further entanglement. Use a paddle brush or a comb with looped bristles to brush your extensions. When working with damp hair, these brushes will help prevent hair damage. Always firmly grip the lengths of your hair whilst you detangle.

 Use a Cleansing Shampoo

A quality cleaning shampoo will clear your extensions of debris, dead skin cells, body oil, and dirt. Don’t use any products that contain SLS, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Sodium Laureth Sulphate, Alcohol Denat, SD Alcohol 40, Propanol, Isopropyl, or Propyl.