7+ Ways to Keep Your Hair Dry While Swimming

Swimming is something that many can agree upon as being relaxing and refreshing. Some may get the privilege of having their very own pool or ocean access every day, and others may only get this leisurely during vacation days. 

Nonetheless, there are numerous benefits of swimming worth noting. BetterHealth claims swimming is a low-impact activity that relieves stress, improves balance, builds muscle, and more. 

It is important to note that many pools have harsh chemicals that can be damaging. Chlorine, although used widely to create a clean space for all swimmers, has many negative impacts on hair. 

First, chlorine is known to remove natural hair oils. This can result in tangled and unhealthy hair. In addition, chlorine can initiate damaging chemical reactions that alter natural hair colors and reduce hair strength.

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Whether you are trying to avoid harmful chemical effects or just striving to keep your hair dry, there are numerous ways that you can keep your hair covered while going for a swim.

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1. Throw On a Swim Cap 

You have likely seen swim caps used by professional swimmers. Although they block hair from getting in the eyes and eliminate instances of drags during competition, a swim cap is also a great accessory to keep your hair dry while swimming. 

A swim cap can come in many different materials- silicone and latex are the most popular. It is important to note that a swim cap must properly fit to prevent wet hair. Some swim caps are made only to protect hair from chemicals and not just water, so choose wisely! 

To properly put on the swim cap, U.S. Master Swimming recommends being cautious of the seam placement, stretching the cap out properly, and never being afraid of wearing two swim caps at once. 

2. Invest in a Waterproof Headband 

Waterproof headbands are designed to keep hair from falling out of its updo and into the face. It can be easy to say that putting your hair in a ponytail will justify keeping it dry while swimming. This may not always be the case! 

A waterproof headband can help create a fail-safe. When putting on the accessory, the headband must cover your hairline and ears. In addition to keeping your hair dry while swimming, a waterproof headband can also prevent water from entering your ears, so get searching for your perfect waterproof headband! 

3. Put On a Shower Cap

As stated above, a swim cap is not a guarantee for dry hair- especially without proper precautions. A shower cap is quite different. This accessory will protect your hair more productively than a swim cap from water with its larger size and flexible material. A shower cap, less compressed than an average swimming cap, may be more functional for those with long hair. 

In addition, a sole purpose of a shower cap is to keep hair dry, unlike a swim cap which protects against damaging chemicals. Shower caps may be the right option if you have a particular hairstyle that you don’t want to be ruined by a tight swim cap.

4. Apply Natural Oils Onto Your Scalp 

Natural oils, such as coconut oil and olive oil, are known to be resisters of water. In addition to being a water resister, natural oils will also revive your hair. SeriouslyNatural states that natural oils such as these will create a barrier of moisture and prevent hair damage from the sun and pool chemicals. 

It is important to note that if you apply a natural oil to your scalp, there are additional steps to take. For example, you can put on a swim or shower cap after applying the natural oils. In addition, you may want to put your hair up and let the natural oils help keep your hair dry while swimming. The point here is that natural oils will not repel water effectively on their own. 

No matter what addition you choose to natural oil, make sure to monitor the exposure to direct sunlight. Excessive natural oils can make your hair more vulnerable to sun damage! 

5. Braid It Up

It sounds too simple, but braiding your hair (if it is long enough) can efficiently keep it dry while swimming. In addition to keeping your hair in a tight and secure updo, braids keep hair well-kept. 

What does this mean? You can keep your hair in braids for hours while swimming and come back with dry, untangled, and undamaged hair. Box braids, dutch braids, and crown braids are popular options for keeping hair safe and dry while swimming. 

6. Bring a Bandana 

A bandana creates a simple and fast way to ensure your hair stays dry while swimming. This hair accessory might be one you already have lying around your home. There are countless styles that one can create when working with a bandana. The key here is to find a style that keeps your hair up and secure! 

A bandana may be one of the most versatile options for keeping your hair dry while swimming. If you have longer hair, you could style it in a messy bun, ponytail, or as said above, in braids! Once your hair is up, fashion the bandana so that it covers your hairline and protects it from becoming wet. 

7. Buy Some Swim Scrunchies

Let’s say that a personal updo is how you decide to keep your hair dry while swimming. That’s great! With that said, bringing along a proper hair tie can make all the difference. 

Swim scrunchies, unlike regular hair ties, are created for water use. The waterproof material of swim scrunchies will help keep your hair dry if and when there is accidental water contact. 

In addition to keeping your hair dry, swim scrunchies will keep your hair healthy. The design of scrunchies prevents hair damage.

Compared to average hair ties, swim scrunchies will result in less hair breakage and split ends. This perk ensures that there will be no hair damage while swimming with a secure updo. 

FAQs

Still have questions? Read on to find the answers!

How can I style my hair when swimming? 

Although it is tempting to style hair with usual accessories while swimming, this can result in hair damage. Some alternatives to avoid hair damage includes swim scrunchies, waterproof headbands, or swim caps. 

How do natural oils prevent hair damage while swimming?

Natural oils will rsesist the absorption of water while swimming. This response of natural oils will create a protectant for hair against the sun and damaging pool chemicals. Some natural oils to apply to your scalp for protection includes coconut oil or olive oil. 

More FAQs

How do you keep your hair dry when swimming naturally?

To keep your hair dry when swimming naturally, you can prevent chlorine water from causing damage by wearing a silicone cap that fits properly. Additionally, you can maintain hair moisture by using natural oils and mitigate damage by using a leave-in conditioner.

What is the point of a swim cap?

The point of a swim cap is to provide protection for your hair, minimize hair in the filters to protect the water and filtration system, and help keep your head warm in cooler weather.

Is there a waterproof swim cap?

There is a waterproof swim cap available in the market. Most of these swim caps are made of high-quality silicone, which is a water-resistant and non-toxic material. Additionally, there are also latex swim caps available, but it is important to ensure that they provide resistance against wear and tear. Silicone swim caps, known for their thickness and durability, are a popular choice among swimmers.

What should I put on my hair when swimming?

You should put olive oil on your hair before swimming and then wear a swimmer’s cap to protect it. According to his recommendation, using oil is necessary because other products will wash away once you enter the water. However, it is important to cover your head with a swim cap to prevent the oil from heating up your hair under the sun. Embracing the swim cap is the best approach.

What can I use instead of a swimming cap?

Instead of a swimming cap, you can consider using alternatives such as a headband, a shower cap, or a bandana. To ensure that no water seeps into your cap, you may opt for silicone headbands that cover your ears and forehead.

Why do swimmers have dry hair?

Swimmers have dry hair due to the damaging effects of pool sanitizing chemicals, such as bromine and chlorine, which cause hair to become brittle and straw-like. Despite the numerous proven benefits of swimming for the body and the enjoyable bonding time it offers with family, the chemicals used to keep pools clean can wreak havoc on hair health.

Can I use shower cap for swimming?

You can use a shower cap for swimming if you want to protect your hair from getting wet. Shower caps are designed with waterproof material, ensuring that no water reaches your hair while swimming. Additionally, they can be useful when swimming in the ocean.

How do you cover your hair before swimming?

To cover your hair before swimming, it is recommended to tie your hair into a loose braid or a high top knot. This will help prevent your hair from getting wet in the pool. However, it is important to avoid making the hairstyle too tight, as this can cause strain on your hair strands when they become wet and heavier.

How should I wear my hair when swimming laps?

When swimming laps, it is important to choose a hairstyle that keeps your hair away from your face, eyes, and neck for both comfort and effectiveness. Additionally, if you are swimming outside in the sunlight, this will help you stay cooler. If you are short on time, a straightforward ponytail is always a reliable option.

Does applying oil before swimming help?

Applying oil before swimming can be helpful as it creates a protective layer between the skin and chlorine water. It is recommended to shower before swimming to ensure that the skin is moisturized and can better absorb the chlorinated water.

How do professional swimmers protect their hair?

Professional swimmers protect their hair by wearing swim caps during swim practice. Swim caps are effective in preventing chlorine from coming into contact with their hair. To ensure optimal protection, it is important to wear the swim cap correctly, ensuring that all of the hair is securely tucked inside.

Should I put something in my hair before swimming?

You should put something in your hair before swimming. It is recommended to use olive oil followed by wearing a swimmer’s cap. According to him, using oil on the hair before entering the pool is essential because any other product will simply wash away once you are in the water. However, it is important to keep your head covered with a swim cap to prevent the oil from heating up your hair under the sun. Embracing the swim cap is the best approach.

Why do swimmers cover their hair?

Swimmers cover their hair to prevent loose hair from clogging the pool and to shield their hair from chlorine damage, even during casual swimming sessions. However, swim caps offer more than just safety benefits. They are particularly advantageous for competitive swimmers or those who swim as part of a team as they aid in minimizing water resistance and drag.

What happens if you don t wash your hair after swimming in chlorine?

If you don’t wash your hair after swimming in chlorine, it can strip the natural oils from your hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and more susceptible to breakage. The chlorine can persistently damage your hair, resulting in long-term harm.

How can I protect my hair in water?

To protect your hair in water, it is recommended by Francois to rinse your hair with clean, fresh water before swimming, regardless of its length, texture, or the type of water you are in. Additionally, you can use oil or a swim cap for added protection.

How do I protect my hair from chlorine on holiday?

To protect your hair from chlorine on holiday, it is important to wet your hair. After swimming in the pool or sea, make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly. It is worth mentioning that dry hair tends to absorb chlorine and salt, whereas wet hair does not. Therefore, by wetting your hair with fresh water before entering the pool or sea, you can prevent this absorption from occurring.

Do you wear a swim cap on wet or dry hair?

The answer to the question “Do you wear a swim cap on wet or dry hair?” is that it is recommended to wet your hair before putting on a swim cap. Wetting your hair makes it easier for the cap material to slide over your strands. You can either dunk your head in the pool or give it a shower before wearing the cap. Additionally, applying leave-in conditioner can provide further protection for your hair.

Do any swim caps keep hair dry?

Swim caps do not keep hair dry, despite the common misconception. It is important to understand that swim caps cannot completely prevent water from entering. Therefore, if a company claims otherwise, it is advisable to disregard their false information.

How should I wear my hair to swim?

To swim, you should wear your hair in a braided or twisted style. This is not mandatory, but it will make it easier to detangle your hair after swimming. Choose a style such as twists, buns, or braids, and wear it to the beach or pool to prevent tangling and minimize the absorption of chlorinated or salt water.

Why do swimmers wear hair caps?

Swimmers wear hair caps for a variety of reasons. These caps are worn to prevent hair from obstructing the swimmer’s vision, minimize resistance in the water, safeguard hair against chlorine or sun damage, maintain dryness, provide warmth to the head, and, when used with earplugs, prevent water from entering the ears.

Does soul cap keep hair dry?

The Soul Cap ensures that hair stays dry by providing a snug fit and wrapping every strand, protecting it from damage during intense training sessions or outdoor swims. Made from 100% premium silicone, these skin-friendly swim caps give you the confidence to swim strong and free.

Is chlorine bad for your hair?

Chlorine is harmful to your hair as it can remove the natural oils, causing dryness and brittleness. Consistent exposure to chlorine can increase hair porosity and alter its color. Additionally, chlorine weakens hair strands, leading to split ends.

Should my swim cap cover my ears?

Your swim cap should cover your ears to help protect them from getting wet while you are swimming. It is crucial to properly put on the swim cap with your ears completely covered. To do so, place your hands inside the cap with fingers laced and then carefully put it on.