Swimming may be great for mind, body and soul, but too much chlorine has been known to have an adverse effect on your hair. If you’re a keen swimmer but worried about how the pool may be damaging your hair, take a look at a few of our tried and tested ideas and treatments here.

Before Your Swim

Wash Your Hair Yes, it may sound a little bit ludicrous to wash your hair before getting it wet, but it’s actually a pretty good way to protect your locks. By having a quick wash before diving in, you’re giving your hair a protective layer of moisture and ensuring that it doesn’t soak up every chlorine infused drop in the pool. In Coconut Oil We Trust Coconut oil is the answer to almost every prayer, so it should come as no surprise that it’s also a great way to help prevent chlorine damage. Scoop a little out and apply it to dry hair, and it should form a lovely layer of protection against chemically induced dryness. Take care in getting the ends of your hair covered too, since this is where you’ll need the most moisture. Don’t Forget That Swim Cap I admit, swimming caps aren’t the most flattering but they are a great way to protect your hair from those pesky (although necessary) chemicals. You make look like a bit of an alien, and chances are you may feel as though you’re having a facelift, but it’s a sound investment if you’re looking after your locks.  

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After Your Swim

Time for Another Shower Yes, it’s annoying I admit, but showering after your swim is crucial to keeping that chlorine damage at bay. If you don’t wash the chlorine away, it’ll just soak into your hair as it dries, and nobody wants that. So yes it’s a pain, but it’s a necessary evil if you’re a keen swimmer with luscious locks. Invest in Some Leave in Conditioner Conditioner can do wonders for bringing your hair back to life, so if you can, invest in some leave in conditioner for optimum assistance. It’ll counteract the damage and dryness caused by the chlorine, while also enhancing your hair’s natural moisture. A Wide Tooth Comb is the Way to Go If you’re not sure what they are, ask your grandad. Chances are he’s still got one tucked into his sock. A wide tooth comb is a gentle way to pry out those tangles and work through the chemically induced frizz. The wide ridges will also help you avoid any strand breakage and, let’s face it, you can’t take the risk of having any more damage done can you?
Swimming is an amazing hobby, and if you’re thinking of taking it up then don’t let the fear of damaging your hair stop you. These tried and tested tips and tricks are a sure fire way to protect your hair from annoying chemical damage and dryness, so what are you waiting for? Dive in! If you’d like to learn more about swimming, or how chemicals can help your pool, take a look at a few of our blogs below. How Swimming Can Improve Bad Circulation Everything You Need-to-Know About Algae and Your Swimming Pool