Can You Workout With Hair Extensions?
Book Now Can You Workout With Hair Extensions? Yes, you can! The idea that extensions mean giving up your workouts is outdated. At Portfolio, we
Can You Workout With Hair Extensions?
Yes, you can! The idea that extensions mean giving up your workouts is outdated. At Portfolio, we use hand-tied beaded row extensions specifically because they’re secure, lightweight, and designed to move with you. Whether you’re hitting spin class, doing CrossFit, or going for a run, your extensions can handle it.
That said, sweat and friction can impact your extensions if you’re not careful. You just need to know how to protect them before, during, and after your workout. Once you know what you’re doing, you’ll barely think about your extensions while you exercise.
The Extension Workout Routine
Warm Up
Taking a few minutes to properly secure your hair before exercising can save you from post-workout tangles and unnecessary stress on your beads.
Secure Your Style
The best way to keep your extensions safe during any workout is to put your hair in a protective style. A low ponytail secured with a silk scrunchie is ideal because it keeps your hair contained without putting tension on the attachment points. If you’re running or doing a high-intensity workout where you’ll be moving around a lot, try a loose braid instead. This prevents your hair from whipping around and tangling while still keeping everything secure and comfortable. Avoid high, tight ponytails that put tension on your scalp and the attachment points.
Brush Before You Go
Always brush your extensions before working out, starting from the ends and working your way up. This prevents any existing tangles from getting worse once you start moving. A quick brush-through takes less than a minute and will save you from a frustrating detangling session later.
During
Keep It Secure
If your hair starts to come loose during your workout, resist the urge to constantly touch and adjust it. This can cause unnecessary pulling on the beads and create frizz. If you need to fix your ponytail or braid, do it once and make it count.
Sweat Happens
Don’t sweat sweating. A little moisture at the roots is completely normal and won’t harm your extensions. The important thing is how you care for your hair after your workout, which we’ll cover next.
The Cool Down
To Wash or Not to Wash
You don’t need to wash your extensions after every workout. In fact, washing too frequently can actually shorten their lifespan. If you’ve done a light workout and your hair isn’t soaking wet, you can simply let your hair down and brush it through gently. The natural oils from your scalp are actually beneficial for both your natural hair and your extensions.
If you’re just a little sweaty, you can blow dry your scalp on low heat so the attachment points dry quickly. Moisture sitting on the wefts can cause damage or even mold.
When You Do Wash
If you’ve had an intense workout and your hair needs washing, remember to brush thoroughly before getting it wet. Focus your shampoo on your scalp and the areas between your rows using that gentle “Z” motion. This is where sweat and product buildup accumulate the most. Let the shampoo rinse through the lengths of your hair rather than scrubbing the extensions themselves.
For a complete breakdown of washing techniques and product recommendations, check out our guide on washing your extensions.
Activities That Need Extra Care
Swimming
Swimming with extensions requires special attention. Whether you’re doing laps in the pool or taking a dip in the ocean, both chlorine and salt water can be harsh on your extensions.
For chlorine, try to avoid it when possible. If you’re planning to swim, apply a deep conditioning mask to your extensions beforehand. This creates a protective barrier that reduces how much chlorine your hair absorbs. Salt water is even tougher on extensions, leaving them dry and brittle. If you can’t avoid it, the same conditioning trick can help, though it may not be quite as effective.
After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water as soon as possible, then wash and condition following your normal routine.
Hot Yoga or Intense Cardio
These sweat-heavy activities are totally fine with extensions, but you’ll want to be extra diligent about keeping your hair secured. The combination of heat and moisture means you’ll definitely want to wash your hair afterward, paying special attention to drying those weft areas completely.
Active lifestyles mean more frequent washing, which can dry out your hair. Use a deep conditioning mask once a week on your mid-lengths and ends (avoiding the roots and attachment points) to keep everything soft and healthy.
Your Gym Bag Essentials
Keep these items in your gym bag to make caring for your extensions easier:
- Silk scrunchies (never use regular elastic bands)
- A travel-size extension brush or wet brush
- Dry shampoo for those days when you can’t wash but need a refresh
- Hair oil for post-workout nourishment if you’re not washing
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tying your hair too tight–This creates tension on your scalp and can damage both your natural hair and the attachment points. Secure doesn’t mean tight.
Skipping washes–Some people worry that washing too often will damage their extensions, so they avoid it after workouts, but letting sweat build up causes more problems than gentle, regular cleansing.
Using the wrong hair ties–Regular elastic bands grab and pull at your hair. Stick with silk scrunchies, spiral ties, or extension-safe elastics.
Forgetting heat protectant–Always use a heat protectant spray. Protecting your extensions from heat damage keeps them looking luscious for longer.
FAQs
Can I sweat with hair extensions?
Absolutely! Sweat won’t ruin your extensions as long as you cleanse your scalp afterward and make sure everything dries properly. What you really want to avoid is letting sweat sit for hours, which can cause buildup or irritation.
Can athletes get hair extensions?
Yes! You’ll want to choose a secure method like hand-tied beaded rows and stay consistent with your maintenance routine. Regular move-up appointments every 6-8 weeks keep everything in place as your natural hair grows.
What are the best kinds of extensions for people who workout?
Hand-tied beaded row extensions are the best for active lifestyles because they’re secure, breathable, and can handle frequent washing. At Portfolio, this is the only method we offer because it gives you the best combination of durability, comfort, and natural appearance, especially if you exercise regularly.
Don't Sweat It
(Seriously, Your Hair Can Handle It)
If you made it this far, you’re probably serious about making extensions work with your active lifestyle. We’ve helped tons of clients who thought they’d have to choose between their dream body and their dream hair. You’ll be relieved to hear it is not an either-or situation. You really can have your cake and eat it too.
Book a consultation at Portfolio and bring all your questions. “Can I do hot yoga twice a week?” Yes. “What about my 6 a.m. boot camp?” Absolutely. “I wash my hair every day after the gym.” Let’s talk products. Whatever your routine looks like, we’ll show you how extensions fit right in. Book your free consultation now.