10 Reasons Why You Should Never Go Swimming With French Braids
What To Know
- A French braid keeps your hair neatly tucked away, eliminating distractions and allowing you to focus on your swim.
- Braid a section of your hair and secure it in a ponytail.
- Whether you’re a recreational swimmer or a competitive athlete, a French braid is a stylish and practical choice for keeping your hair under control while you swim.
Are you a swimmer who loves to rock a chic French braid? If so, you’re in luck! French braids are not only stylish but also incredibly practical for swimming. Here’s why:
Benefits of French Braids for Swimming
1. Keep Hair Out of Your Face
One of the biggest annoyances when swimming is hair getting in your face. A French braid keeps your hair neatly tucked away, eliminating distractions and allowing you to focus on your swim.
2. Reduce Drag
Long, flowing hair can create drag in the water, slowing you down. A French braid streamlines your hair, reducing drag and improving your speed.
3. Prevent Tangling
Chlorine and saltwater can wreak havoc on your hair, causing it to become tangled and knotted. A French braid helps prevent tangles by keeping your hair secure and protected.
4. Protect from Chlorine Damage
Chlorine can damage your hair by stripping it of its natural oils. A French braid acts as a barrier, reducing the amount of chlorine that comes into contact with your hair.
5. Stay in Place
French braids are incredibly secure and stay in place even during vigorous swimming sessions. This means you won’t have to worry about your hair coming undone mid-swim.
How to Braid Your Hair for Swimming
1. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles.
2. Divide your hair into three equal sections.
3. Cross the right section over the middle section.
4. Cross the left section over the new middle section.
5. Continue braiding, always crossing the outer sections over the middle section.
6. Secure the end of the braid with an elastic band.
Tips for Swimming with a French Braid
- Use a strong elastic band that won’t snap or come loose in the water.
- Braid your hair tightly to prevent it from coming undone.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner before braiding to protect your hair from chlorine damage.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water after swimming to remove any chlorine or saltwater residue.
Alternatives to French Braids for Swimming
If you’re not a fan of French braids, there are other hairstyles that are also suitable for swimming:
- Braided bun: A braided bun keeps your hair up and out of your face while providing a secure hold.
- Ponytail with braid: Braid a section of your hair and secure it in a ponytail. This style combines the benefits of a ponytail and a braid.
- Dutch braid: A Dutch braid is similar to a French braid but the sections are crossed under instead of over. This creates a more raised and voluminous braid.
Final Thoughts: French Braids, the Ultimate Swim Style
Whether you’re a recreational swimmer or a competitive athlete, a French braid is a stylish and practical choice for keeping your hair under control while you swim. With its benefits ranging from reducing drag to protecting from chlorine damage, a French braid is a must-try hairstyle for any swimmer.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I swim with a French braid every day?
A: Yes, you can swim with a French braid every day. However, it’s important to rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water after each swim to remove any chlorine or saltwater residue.
Q: How long can I keep a French braid in for swimming?
A: You can keep a French braid in for swimming for as long as you like. However, it’s recommended to re-braid your hair every few days to prevent tangles and damage.
Q: Can I use hairspray to keep my French braid in place while swimming?
A: It’s not recommended to use hairspray to keep your French braid in place while swimming. Hairspray can build up on your hair and make it more susceptible to damage.