I’m going to admit something here—something I’ve never said out loud before. I actively avoid swimming regularly because of my hair. Yes, I know I can put on a swim cap, and it’s not the end of the world, but it seems like a faff, and from memory, they are kind of uncomfortable. Plus, vainly, they don’t usually gel with my summer aesthetic.
On holiday, I’m more carefree. I’m all about rest and relaxation and don’t really stick to a hair-and-beauty regimen (but I never skip my SPF), so if I want to dip in the pool or sea and my hair gets a little wet, so be it. I roll with what I have to work with. I bring my travel beauty essentials along with me, and post-swim, I’ll concoct a style that’s simple enough to not require much product or manipulation but that looks like I’ve made a bit of effort for sundowners. Here are the best post-swim hairstyles you need to bookmark for your next summer holiday.
Hair-Up Ideas
Whether you have a bob or waist-length hair, hair-up styles should be a go-to in your roster. Even if you haven’t had time for a post-swim rinse, they hide a multitude of summer hair concerns from frizz to dry ends and greasy roots. Plus, they'll cool you down by keeping your hair off of the nape of your neck.
For this look, a hair bungee will be less tight than a typical hair elastic and allow your 'fro to show all of its voluminous glory.
Use a styling cream to aid with calming any flyaways and twist hair at the crown before securing with a claw clip.
This style works across the hair-type spectrum, and if your hair swells when it comes in contact with water, even better, as it'll give your bun more volume. The best thing with this style is not to overcomplicate it. Spritz with a light leave-in conditioner, scrape upward, and tie before folding hair either around or over itself and securing.
If in doubt, scrunch it out. If you can, opt for a silk or satin scrunchie, as it'll be gentler on your hair, as strands are more delicate when they’re wet.
Product Picks
Easilocks Hair Bunjees
These make tying your hair a breeze with no snagging involved.
Briogeo Superfoods Avocado and Kiwi Mega Moisture 3-in-1 Leave-In Spray
This leaves lengths hydrated and conditioned, making it perfect for packing in your suitcase if you're jetting away somewhere warm.
Slip Pure Silk Scrunchies Midnight
Silk scrunchies are much gentler on lengths than standard hair ties.
Plaited and Twisted Style Ideas
The benefits of plaited and braided styles post-swim are multilayered. It's a pulled-together style, yes. But also, if you braid while your hair is still damp with styling products, then once it's dry, your hair will have beachy definition.
If you have wavy hair, rake some light mousse or cream through your lengths before plaiting for amazing waves when your hair is dry.
For these rope buns, you’ll need to do two high pigtails, make a two-strand twist and then wrap around before securing with hair pins. If you have curly hair, you can slick the front of your hair down with a little pomade.
Tie your post-swim style into your overall look with a vibrant ribbon. The easiest way to do this is to tie your hair into a ponytail or pigtails and then loop your ribbon around the band before plaiting it into your hair.
A slicked-back pony plait is the best option if you want your sun-soaked hair to recoup while you head for post-swim cocktails. Wash or rinse hair, and apply your mask of choice, comb through, and secure.
Product Picks
Bumble and Bumble Thickening Plumping Mask
Fine hair is given a plumping boost with this hair mask, which also helps to repair sun-soaked lengths.
R+Co Chiffon Styling Mousse
A mousse is great for adding body and enhancing your hair's texture.
Aveda Brilliant Anti-Humectant Pomade
Perfect in warm climates, this anti-humidity pomade leaves curls defined while taming flyaways.
Hair Accessory Ideas
Ultimately, this is the quickest and savviest way to style out a post-swim look. If you’re still going to be sitting in the sun after swimming, a hat or scarf will protect your hair, especially if you have bleached or colour-treated hair.
A scarf is an excellent way to complete your outfit and protect your hair from the sun. Bonus points if you can incorporate the tendrils trend as well.
While the lengths of my hair actually tend to behave themselves when splashed with a little water, it’s my hairline that gets super frizzy, so a headband is an easy cover-up for edges.
Arguably the ultimate poolside hair accessory for a laid-back luxe look, a bucket hat keeps your hair and scalp safe from the sun and requires zero effort.
A sun hat keeps the hair and face protected in the most stylish way possible. Also, a hat, whether a cap, bucket or sun hat, is essential for protecting the scalp when your hair is in braids and your scalp is more exposed than normal.
Product Picks
Burberry Printed Silk-Twill Scarf
So chic tied into the hair.
& Other Stories Wide Brim Straw Hat
We're taking this on all our summer holidays for the foreseeable.
Arket Towelling Bucket Hat
The perfect way to keep hair protected while staying stylish in the sun.
Boardmans Stripe Floppy Sun Hat in Multi
This big floppy sun hat is a whole poolside mood.
Next up, This Retro Product Works Wonders on Thin Hair, and It Just Made a Comeback
