How to Swim in a Wig

Losing your hair doesn't mean you have to lose your joy and mobility. Leslieann Butler, in her book, "If Your Hair Falls Out, Keep Dancing," asserts that even the most-active person who sweats and swims with the best of them need not resign from an active lifestyle because of wearing a wig. With a little precaution and knowledge pertaining to your personal wig, you can keep dancing -- and swimming.

Instructions

    • 1

      Visit a wig consultant. The right wig will depend partly on your specific hair loss pattern. Amy Gibson, former soap opera star who lost her hair, designed Amy's Presence wigs that cater specifically to women determined to live an active lifestyle. Various outlets have certified consultants.

    • 2

      Choose a style. You can wear a wig that uses adhesives to stay in place, but it's not necessary with certain wigs. Some wigs incorporate vacuum and suction techniques to keep wigs in place while swimming.

    • 3

      Choose the right adhesive. If prefer to use adhesive, ensure that you use waterproof adhesive. Adhesives generally come in three different forms: liquid, creams or ointments, and are water-, silicone- or acrylic-based. Adhesive tapes are another option. Whatever you choose, ensure that the product was designed for direct contact with skin.

    • 4

      Take precautions. Wait at least eight hours before swimming if you've applied fresh adhesive or adhesive tape to your scalp. If the adhesive is more than two-weeks-old, consider applying fresh adhesive to help avoid your wig coming off while swimming. Also, place the wig in a ponytail to prevent a tangling effect from the chlorine, if swimming in a chlorine pool.

    • 5

      Protect your wig. Chlorine might not have any adverse effect on some wigs, but others might be at risk. Check with a consultant about the specifics of your wig's hair, or look up information from your wig's designer or manufacturer.

    • 6

      Swim freely and have fun. Leslieann Butler quotes a woman named Amy, who wears a wig and swims and plays sports regularly, in her book. Amy says, "I'm pretty active... and there's no way my hair's coming off." "I treat it just like natural hair," she adds. Enjoy what you've always enjoyed -- enjoy swimming.