While swimming is a fantastic exercise and keeps your body in shape, it can have the opposite effect on your hair.  Chlorine that is used to keep out harmful bacteria from pool water can wreak havoc on your hair by stripping it of its natural oils, leaving hair brittle and damaged. 

So what can you do to “pool-proof” your hair and leave it shiny all summer?

Wet your hair before swimming

Rinse your hair with clean water (but don’t shampoo) before diving in.  This step will minimize the amount of chlorine that is absorbed into your hair, as wet hair has less room to absorb damaging chemicals.

 

Coconut oil – its not just for cooking

Take your pre-swim rinse a step further by applying coconut oil to your strands, to add an extra barrier between your hair and chlorinated water.

 

Break out the swim cap

We get it – swim caps aren’t necessarily the most fashionable hair accessory, but if you have privacy while swimming, or just feel particularly cute in one, swim caps are your best protection from direct chlorine exposure.  The cap won’t keep your hair completely dry but it will minimize contact with pool water.

 

Maintain a post-swim routine

Similar to the pre-swim rinse, doing the same as soon as you get out of the pool will go a long way to getting rid of the chemicals until you are able to properly shampoo your hair.

 

Use moisture-replenishing products

As soon as you can after swimming, wash your hair with a chlorine-removal shampoo, such as Kevin.Murphy Maxi Wash Clarifying Shampoo and replenish with a moisture-rich conditioner.  Finish with Kevin.Murphy Leave-in.Repair.

 

Put down the dryer

Letting hair dry naturally after swimming helps prevent further damage. Use a wide-tooth comb when smoothing out your post-swim tangles to minimize additional breakage.

If you feel like your hair has been excessively damaged by pool chemicals, talk to your stylist about the best course of action to restore your hair to its healthy best. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call at 703-724-9444.