It’s a question that has been debated for years – can you swim with hair extensions? The answer, as it turns out, is yes… and no. There are a few things you need to take into consideration before hitting the pool with your extensions, namely the type of extension you have and the quality of the bond.
So, in this article, we’re going to take a look at everything you need to know about swimming with hair extensions, from the types of extensions that are best suited to getting wet to how to properly care for your extensions after a dip in the pool.
Let’s take a closer look at the debate to find out why people are so divided on this topic.
Can You Swim With Hair Extensions?
The short answer to this question is yes, you can swim with hair extensions. However, there are a few things you need to take into consideration before doing so.
Firstly, it’s important to note that not all types of hair extensions are created equal. Some types of extensions, such as tape-in extensions, are made with a waterproof adhesive that will withstand getting wet. Other types of extensions, such as clip-in extensions, are not made with a waterproof adhesive and should therefore not be worn in the pool.
Secondly, even if your extensions are made with a waterproof adhesive, it’s important to make sure that the bond is of good quality. Poor quality hair extensions are more likely to come loose when they get wet, so if you’re planning on swimming with your extensions, make sure to invest in a good quality product.
Third, swim cap or no swim cap? That is the question. Wearing a swim cap can help to protect your hair extensions from getting wet, but it’s not always necessary. If you have good-quality extensions that are properly bonded, you should be able to swim without a swim cap and still keep your extensions in place.
Finally, it’s important to take care of your extensions after swimming. This means shampooing and conditioning them as soon as you get out of the pool, and making sure to dry them thoroughly before putting them back in.
What is the Best Type of Hair Extension for Swimming?
As we mentioned above, not all types of hair extensions are created equal. Some types of extensions are better suited to getting wet than others.
If you’re looking for a type of extension that you can swim with, we recommend opting for tape-in extensions. Tape-in extensions are made with a waterproof adhesive that will withstand getting wet. Additionally, they are applied using a special tape that is designed to stay in place, even when wet.
If you’re not looking to invest in new extensions, then another option is to use clip-in extensions. Clip-in extensions can be worn in the pool, but they should be removed before getting in and put back in after you’ve gotten out. This is because they are not made with a waterproof adhesive and can come loose when wet.
Does Swimming Ruin Hair Extensions?
There is no definitive answer to this question. While swimming may not necessarily ruin hair extensions, it can certainly cause them to become damaged and matted.
This is because chlorine and salt water can dry out the hair, causing it to become brittle and breakable. In addition, the constant movement of the water can cause the hair extensions to tangle and knot.
So, while you can technically swim with hair extensions, it’s not recommended if you want to keep them looking their best. If you do decide to take a dip, be sure to take extra care of your hair afterward to prevent damage.
How Should I Care for My Extensions After Swimming?
If you’re planning on swimming with your hair extensions, it’s important to take care of them after you’ve gotten out of the pool. This means shampooing and conditioning them as soon as you can and making sure to dry them thoroughly before putting them back in.
It’s also a good idea to invest in a leave-in conditioner or treatment that is designed for extensions. These products can help to keep your extensions healthy and hydrated and will make them easier to style after swimming.
Finally, if you’re using clip-in extensions, make sure to remove them before getting in the pool and put them back in after you’ve gotten out. This will help to prevent them from coming loose and ensure that they last longer.
What if My Hair Extensions Become Damaged After Swimming?
If your hair extensions become damaged after swimming, there are a few things you can do to try and salvage them. First, try gently brushing out any knots or tangles. If the extensions are still in good condition, this should help to get them back to their original state.
If the damage is more severe, you may need to get the extensions replaced. This is because once the hair becomes matted or damaged, it’s difficult to repair.
The Bottom Line
So, can you swim with hair extensions? Yes, you can swim with hair extensions. However, there are a few things to consider before doing so, such as the type of extension you have and the quality of the bond.
After swimming, it’s also vital to take care of your extensions by washing and conditioning them and making sure they’re completely dry before returning them in.
With that said, swimming with hair extensions isn’t for everyone. If you’re not willing to take the extra precautions necessary to care for them, it’s probably best to avoid swimming altogether. Doing so will help to ensure that your extensions last longer and stay in better condition.
Have you ever tried swimming with hair extensions? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below!
Related: Why Do Hair Extensions Get Tangled?