Can Hair Extensions Get Wet? Showering, Swimming & Aftercare Tips

At Hair Candy, with salons in Gold Coast, Varsity, and Brisbane, we’re often asked by clients, “Can hair extensions get wet?” Whether you love hitting the beach, enjoy relaxing poolside, or just want to know the best way to care for your hair in the shower, understanding how moisture affects your extensions is key to maintaining their beauty and longevity.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what happens when hair extensions get wet, tips for swimming with extensions, and the essential aftercare routines you need to keep your hair looking flawless — rain or shine.

Can Hair Extensions Get Wet?

Yes — but with care.
Hair extensions can get wet, but how you handle them before, during, and after moisture exposure makes all the difference.

If you have professional human hair extensions, like the ones we use at Hair Candy, they can withstand water — but they are not the same as your natural hair. They don’t receive natural oils from your scalp, which means they can dry out more easily and become tangled or brittle when wet.

Wet Hair Extensions: What Happens?

When hair extensions get wet — whether in the shower, ocean, or pool — they become heavier. This added weight can put stress on the bonds or tapes, especially if you brush or handle them roughly while wet. Wet hair is also more prone to breakage and tangling, particularly with longer or finer strands.

Here are a few common effects of water exposure on extensions:

• Dryness: Especially after saltwater or chlorine exposure

• Matting & Tangling: If not brushed or dried properly

• Bond Slippage: If water loosens the adhesive or bonds

• Colour Fading: Especially in chlorinated pools or sun-exposed areas

Swimming with Extensions: Can You Do It?

If you're living on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane, chances are you're heading to the beach or pool often. So, can you swim with hair extensions? The answer is yes — but with precautions.

Tips for Swimming with Extensions:

1. Braid Your Hair Before Swimming
   This helps minimise tangling and breakage while reducing exposure to harsh elements.

2. Use a Swim Cap (Optional but Helpful)
   While not always fashionable, a swim cap is your best bet for keeping chlorine and salt out of your extensions.

3. Apply Leave-In Conditioner or Hair Oil
   Before swimming, coat your extensions with a leave-in conditioner or light hair oil. This creates a protective barrier and helps keep moisture in.

4. Rinse Immediately After Swimming
   Salt and chlorine are harsh on both natural hair and extensions. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water right after swimming to wash away residue.

5. Don’t Swim Daily
   Frequent water exposure can wear down the hair shaft and reduce the lifespan of your extensions. If you’re a daily swimmer, consult with our stylists about the best waterproof extensions Gold Coast options.

Showering with Hair Extensions

Showering is safe with hair extensions, as long as you follow proper care guidelines.

Dos:

• Use sulfate-free, extension-safe shampoo and conditioner.

• Gently brush your hair with an extension-friendly brush before getting into the shower.

• Tilt your head back and let the water run down — don’t flip your head forward (this can cause tangling).

• Wash your hair in a downward motion to avoid stressing the bonds or tapes.

Don’ts:

• Avoid scrubbing the scalp roughly.

• Don’t wash your hair upside down.

• Never sleep with wet hair extensions — always dry your hair completely after washing.

Aftercare for Wet Hair Extensions

Caring for your extensions after they get wet is just as important as protecting them during moisture exposure.

1. Towel-Dry Gently

Use a microfiber towel to blot (not rub) your hair dry. This reduces friction and prevents unnecessary breakage.

2. Brush Carefully

Use a loop or detangling brush designed for extensions. Start at the ends and work your way up, holding the roots to reduce tension on the bonds.

3. Blow-Dry the Roots

If you have tape, keratin bond, or weft extensions, always blow-dry the roots where the extensions are attached. Leaving these areas wet can weaken the adhesive or cause slippage.

4. Use Heat Protectant

If you’re styling your hair post-wash, always apply a heat protectant to keep your extensions soft and shiny.

Are There Waterproof Extensions?

While no extension is 100% waterproof in the way that, say, a raincoat is, some types hold up better than others with moisture exposure.

If you’re an active person who swims or sweats regularly, our stylists at Hair Candy Gold Coast or Hair Candy Brisbane can recommend the most water-resistant extension types, such as:

• Hand-tied wefts

• Keratin bond extensions

• Tape-ins with medical-grade adhesive

We’ll also teach you how to maintain them between appointments to extend their lifespan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Wet Extensions

Let’s keep your investment in perfect condition. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

🚫 Washing too frequently
– Over-washing dries out extensions.

🚫 Sleeping with wet hair
– This causes matting and damage.

🚫 Using the wrong shampoo
– Sulfates strip the hair and loosen adhesive.

🚫 Ignoring after-swim care
– Chlorine and salt can do long-term damage if left in the hair.

Why Choose Hair Candy for Hair Extensions?

At Hair Candy, we specialise in premium-quality hair extensions in Gold Coast, Varsity Lakes, and Brisbane. Our team of expert stylists are trained in various extension methods and are passionate about maintaining the health of your natural hair while giving you the volume and length you’ve always wanted.

We offer:

✔ 100% human Remy hair
✔ Custom-colour matching
✔ Safe, long-lasting application methods
✔ Aftercare education & support
✔ Personalised recommendations for active lifestyles

Whether you’re after low-maintenance beauty or swimming-ready extensions, we’ll find the perfect solution for you.

Final Thoughts

Yes — hair extensions can get wet! But how you treat them before, during, and after moisture exposure matters. Whether you’re showering, swimming, or just caught in the Queensland rain, your extensions can stay beautiful and healthy with the right care.

If you're ready to explore waterproof extensions Gold Coast or need personalised advice, book your free consultation at Hair Candy today. Visit us at our Gold Coast or Brisbane hair salon, and let’s create the hair of your dreams — rain, sun, or surf.

Book now or call us today to learn more about how to care for your hair extensions — no matter where life (or water) takes you!