As someone who has worn hair extensions for about 10 years, I’ve my share of good and bad experiences. One of the most prevalent query I ever got is, can you swim with hair extensions? As per my honest review, you cannot swim with the hair extension, but some exceptions exist. So, today, I’m going to answer that question once and for all!
What are hair extensions, and why might someone want to wear them?
Hair extensions are artificial hairs that you may use to make your hair seem longer, thicker or both. There is a plethora of techniques for applying hair extensions, but the most common are glue-in, tape-in, and clip-in.
People wear hair extensions for a wide range of purposes. Some people do it to achieve a specific look, while others add volume or length to their natural hair.
Can you swim with hair extensions?
The short answer is no, and you cannot swim with hair extensions. Below are three facts to support this statement.
Fact-1
You must avoid wearing hair extensions while swimming because chlorine damages your natural hair and hair extensions. When chlorine comes into contact with your hair, it can cause the protein in your hair to become weak and dry. This is why your hair seems stiff and straw-like after swimming in a pool.
The same thing happens to hair extensions, except they are even more susceptible to damage because they are not attached to your scalp. This means they don’t have the same natural oils that protect your hair.
Fact-2
In addition, the glue or tape that attaches hair extensions can also be damaged by chlorine. It can cause the extensions to become slack and slip. Also, chlorine and salt water can cause the color of your hair extensions to fade. If you’ve ever had colored hair, you know how quickly it can fade in the sun and chlorinated water.
Fact-3
Another reason is that swimming in the water, chlorinated or salt water, can cause tangles and matting in your hair extensions. Hair extensions are not bonded to the roots so they can move around more than your hair. It can cause them to become tangled with each other or your hair.
How to keep your hair extensions safe while swimming?
If you absolutely must swim with your hair extensions, there are some things that you can do to minimize the damage.
Wet your hair before swimming
First, moisten your hairs before wading into the pool. It will help dilute the chlorine and prevent it from being absorbed by your hair. To wet your hair, spray water from a bottle or soak your hair with a showerhead before entering the pool. Also, you can use
Wear a swimming cap
A swimming cap is a particular type of hat you can wear while swimming. It helps keep your hair dry and protected from chlorine and salt water.
To wear a swimming cap, put your hair in a high ponytail or bun, and then put the swimming cap over your head. Ensure the lid is tight against your head so no water can get in. However, please don’t make it too tight as it can give you a severe headache after a while.
There are many different yet best swimming caps available, but the most important thing is to find one that fits snugly on your head. It will assist you in keeping it set while swimming.
Stay in the shallow end
The shallow end is the pool part, where the water is not as deep. It’s usually close to the edge of the pool.
If you decide to swim with your hair extensions, staying in the pool’s shallow end is best. It will minimize the time your hair expose to the water. And also, it is a great technique to keep you from being overly weary.
Use leave-in conditioner
Another way to protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine and salt water is to use a leave-in conditioner. Apply the conditioner to your hair before getting into the pool. It will help in managing your hair’s moisture and preventing tangling.
Also, make sure to condition your hair after swimming. It is helpful to replenish the moisture lost due to chlorine.
Rinse your hair with bottled water
Bottled water is simply water that comes in a bottle. It’s often used as an alternative to tap water containing contaminants.
Rinsing your hair with bottled water after swimming can help remove any chlorine or salt water in your hair. Wet your hair with the bottled water and then rinse it out.
Conclusion:
So, can you swim with hair extensions? No, you cannot swim with hair extensions. The chlorine and salt water can damage your hair extensions and cause them to become loose, fall out, or tangle.
If you must swim with your hair extensions, there are some things that you can do to minimize the damage. Wet your hair before getting into the pool, wear a swimming cap, stay in the shallow end, use a leave-in conditioner, and rinse your hair with bottled water after swimming.
FAQ:
Do swimming caps keep your hair dry?
No, not really. It helps a little, but if you’re looking to keep your hair completely dry, you better use a shower cap or wear your hair up in a bun.
What are the best types of extensions for swimming?
There are no particular types of extensions for swimming. The best thing to do is choose a high-quality extension made from natural human hair. This way, it will be less likely to tangle or fall out.
Can you wear hair extensions while swimming in the ocean?
Yes, you can wear hair extensions while swimming in the ocean. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that salt can be very drying for your hair.
If you go swimming in the ocean with your hair extensions, rinse your hair with fresh water afterward. It works to remove any salt water that is in your hair.
Are hand-tied extensions suitable for thin hairs to swim?
Yes, hand-tied extensions are a great option for those with thin hair who want to be able to swim without worrying about their extensions coming out. Read more.
Can you swim with tape in hair extensions?
Yes, as long as the tape is covered with a silicone swim cap. Otherwise, the chlorine and salt water can damage the tape by making it brittle.
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