Boho braids are the ultimate carefree summer vibe—light, stylish, and full of texture. With their mix of braids and loose curls, they bring a fun and breezy look that's perfect for beach days, pool parties, and vacation getaways. But while boho braids are made to turn heads, water, chlorine, and salt can quickly take a toll on those beautiful curly ends if you’re not prepared.
The good news? With just a few smart steps, you can protect your style and keep your boho braids looking fresh—even after a swim. In this post, we’ll break down simple, practical tips to help you enjoy the water without sacrificing your look.
Can You Swim with Boho Braids?
Yes—you can swim with boho braids, but a little prep goes a long way!
Boho braids combine neat plaits with loose, curly ends that give the style its signature look. But those curly pieces are delicate and need extra love, especially when exposed to chlorine or saltwater. Harsh water can dry out the curls, cause frizz, and even lead to tangling or shedding if you’re not careful.
The textured braiding hair also reacts differently from fully braided styles. While the braided sections hold up pretty well, the curly ends are more vulnerable to water damage and frizz. That’s why it’s important to protect your hair before diving in and know how to refresh it after.
With the right prep and aftercare, you can enjoy the pool or beach without sacrificing your boho braid beauty.
Pre-Swim Prep: Protect Your Boho Braids
Before you jump into the water, take a few minutes to prep your boho braids—your curls will thank you later!
- Spray on Leave-In Conditioner or Braid Spray: Coat your braids and curls with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or moisturizing braid spray. This helps create a barrier against chlorine and saltwater, keeping your hair from drying out.
- Wrap or Pin Up the Curly Ends: Boho braids are known for their free-flowing curls, but those ends need protection. Pin up the curly pieces so they stay out of the water, or gather them into a loose bun to reduce frizz and tangling.
- Wear a Swim Cap (If You’re Submerging): Planning on diving in? A snug swim cap can help keep your braids dry and prevent chlorine or saltwater from soaking into your hair. It’s not always stylish, but it’s a game-changer for preserving your braids.
- Optional: Tie Hair in a Braid or Bun: If a swim cap isn’t your thing, pull your boho braids into a single braid or bun. This limits movement in the water and lowers your chances of tangling or matting.
A little prep goes a long way toward keeping your boho braids fresh and fabulous after a swim!
Tips for After Swimming
Once you’re out of the water, it’s time to show your boho braids a little post-swim TLC:
- Rinse with Clean Water: Don’t wait—rinse your braids and scalp with clean, lukewarm water as soon as possible. This helps wash away chlorine or salt that can dry out and damage both your braids and curly ends.
- Spray on a Moisturizer: Use a light, leave-in spray moisturizer to hydrate your scalp and refresh your braids. Look for one that’s made for braided or textured styles to keep your hair soft and smooth.
- Pat Dry Gently: Skip the rubbing—just gently blot your braids and curls with a soft towel. Rubbing can cause frizz, especially around the delicate curly ends.
- Air Dry on a Wig Stand (If Removable): If you’re wearing a boho braided wig, take it off and place it on a wig stand to dry. Letting it air dry helps maintain the braid pattern and keeps the curls from getting misshapen.
These simple after-swim steps help your boho braids stay fresh, soft, and ready for your next adventure!
How to Keep the Curly Ends Fresh?
The curly ends are what give boho braids their charm—so it’s important to keep them bouncy and defined, even after swimming.
- Use Hair Rollers and Warm Water to Refresh Curls: If the curls start to look limp or frizzy, wrap the ends around hair rollers and dip them briefly in warm water (not boiling!). Make sure to pin up all loose curly pieces away from the hot water while dipping. Let them air dry to bring the curls back to life.
- Apply Mousse or Curl-Defining Spray: A lightweight mousse or curl-defining spray can help reshape loose or frizzy strands. Just scrunch it in gently with your hands and let it dry naturally.
- Skip the Brush—Use Your Fingers: Avoid using a brush or comb on the curly ends. Instead, finger-detangle gently to prevent breakage and keep the curls looking natural and full.
A little curl care goes a long way—these quick tricks will keep your boho braids looking fresh, even after fun in the sun and water!
Boho Braided Wigs: A Travel-Friendly Alternative
Want to enjoy the beach or pool without stressing over your braids? Hand-tied boho braided wigs are a game-changer—especially when you’re on vacation.
These wigs are easier to manage and perfect for travel. Instead of worrying about how water will affect your curls, you can simply remove your wig before swimming and pop it back on afterward—no frizz, no fuss. It’s a hassle-free way to protect your look while still enjoying your trip.
At MyBraidedWig.com, we offer high-quality full HD lace boho braided wigs that give you the same natural look and vibe—minus the upkeep. Here are a few customer favorites:
- Full HD Lace Boho Braided Wig
This stunning wig features invisible knots, soft flowing curls, and a flawless medium part that delivers a natural, ready-to-wear look for any occasion.
Available in Black, Blonde, Brown, and Burgundy.
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- Full HD Lace Boho Box Braided Wig
Designed with tangle-free curly ends and a clean small part, this wig offers a laid-back boho vibe with a secure, hand-tied fit that's perfect for everyday glam.
Available in Black, Burgundy, and Brown.
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With these wigs, you get vacation-ready style that’s beautiful, low-maintenance, and completely swim-proof when you want it to be.
Conclusion
Boho braids and water can go hand-in-hand—as long as you show your style a little extra love. Remember to protect your braids before swimming, rinse them well afterward, and refresh the curly ends when needed. These simple steps will keep your braids looking fresh, defined, and frizz-free all summer long.
With the right care, you don’t have to choose between enjoying the water and rocking your favorite look. And if you want the ultimate low-maintenance option, check out our vacation-ready boho braided wigs at MyBraidedWig.com—perfect for pool days, beach trips, and everything in between.
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