With the summer heat comes the temptation to cool off in the pool, but frequent exposure to chlorine can wreak havoc on your hair. While refreshing, swimming in chlorinated water can leave your locks dry and damaged. By following a few simple yet effective tips, you can protect your hair from the harsh effects of chlorine.
Wet Your Hair Before Swimming
A simple but powerful step to protect your hair from chlorine damage is to wet it thoroughly before diving into the pool. Your locks acts much like a sponge it absorbs water when it’s dry. Once your hair is saturated with clean water, it becomes less likely to absorb chlorinated water. This technique prevents chlorine from penetrating your strands, thus protecting your locks from the drying and damaging effects it can cause.
By taking this quick step, you can ensure that your strands won’t become too porous and prone to the harsh effects of chlorine exposure.
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Use Specialized Shampoos and Gels
One of the best ways to safeguard your hair against chlorine is by using professional swimmer shampoos, also known as chelating shampoos. These shampoos are specially formulated to remove chlorine and mineral deposits from your locks. By using them regularly, you can cleanse your strands from the chemicals it absorbs during your swim. there are gels available that offer dual protection against chlorine and the sun’s harmful UV rays.
These gels form a protective barrier over your hair, preventing chlorine from penetrating your strands while also protecting it from the drying effects of the sun. With such products, your locks stays hydrated and healthy even after hours in the pool.
Condition and Braid Your Hair For More Protection
For more protection, applying a leave in conditioner before you swim is a wise choice. Leave in conditioners act as a barrier, creating a layer that shields your locks from chlorine. They don’t need to be rinsed out, which makes them convenient and easy to use. Once applied, the conditioner nourishes your strands, keeping it hydrated and less vulnerable to damage from chlorinated water. Braiding it before swimming helps reduce the amount of exposure your strands have to chlorine.
Braiding your locks, you keep it compact and secure, minimizing its contact with the pool water. However, it’s essential to wet it before braiding, as the braid won’t protect your scalp or hair at the crown.
Apply Hair Oil Befor Swiming
Another fantastic way to safeguard your hair from chlorine is by applying oil before you swim. Hair oil repels water, so when you coat it with oil, it forms a protective layer that prevents chlorine from penetrating the strands.
Since chlorine can strip your locks,of its natural oils, applying extra oil helps replenish these essential oils, ensuring that it stays moisturized and healthy. You can effectively protect it from both the drying effects of chlorine and the sun.
