How To Protect Your Hair Whilst Swimming

All though everyone’s hair is different, and our hair care routine differs, the effects salt, chlorine, and fresh water have on our hair are the same.

Our top tips below will show you how to look after your hair when swimming and what to be aware of in different water types.

Chlorine

Chlorine is one of the harshest chemicals that your hair comes into contact with when swimming. It strips out the hairs natural oils causing dehydration, spilt ends and breakage which is why protection against chlorine should be at the top of your list!

Those of you with highly processed hair should be extra cautious when going for a dip in the pool…. We’ve all heard the stories of people’s hair going green!

Salt

Though salt water is great at giving a natural, beach textured wave look, over exposure to water with a high salt content will have a harmful effect to your hair. The salt in sea water will draw moisture out of your hair making it feel rough and dehydrated which leads to split ends and breakage. If you let the hair get dehydrated you can say good bye to beautiful beach waves.

Hair tips before swimming:

Cut back on the heat – Using excess heat on the hair will accelerate any damaged caused by the types of water you’re swimming in.

Keep your hair covered – Wearing a swimming cap whilst swimming is the best option to stop your hair coming into contact with any salt or chlorine.

After swimming:

Rinse it out – As soon as you get the swimming pool or the sea, head straight for the showers. Rinse the salt or chlorine out as soon as possible with prevent the elements drying out the hair.

Be gentle – Your hair is at its most fragile state when it’s wet. Blot and squeeze your hair dry as being rough with a towel can cause split ends and breakage.

Reapply your sun cream – After going for a swim you should always reapply sun protection to your skin, the same rule goes for your hair. Using products with UV filter in them will prevent the hair from burning.

Treatments, treatments, and more treatments! – This is probably the most important step to consider after swimming.  Using a treatment after sun exposure or being in water will replenish all the nourishment, richness and moisture that has been lost. Doing this step will prevent the hair from becoming damaged and breaking.

If you have any questions regarding which products to use whether for being abroad or in the UK please feel free to pop into the salon or give us a call on 01727 866807 and one of the team will be happy to advise you.