As the summer season approaches, many people find themselves spending more time in the pool to cool off. While swimming is fun, family-friendly, and a great work-out, it’s no secret it wreaks havoc on your hair.
This havoc is caused by the chlorine in the water. Chlorine is a chemical used to kill bacteria in the pool, keeping it clean and safe for use. Unfortunately, a side effect is that the harsh chemical irritates our skin, eyes, hair, and even clothes.
Chlorine harms your hair by stripping the natural oils from it which act as a protective barrier. This in turn causes hair to become dry and brittle.
Enduring a hot summer without the relief of a pool is not the life any of us want to live. So, what can you do to protect your hair from the damage cause by chlorine? Below is a list of easy ways to maintain your hair’s health while also enjoying your pool day.
- Apply hair product prior to taking a dip in the pool. Coating your locks with an oil-based product will not only add shine but will also hydrate your thirsty hair. More oil on the air means more protectant from the harmful chlorine.
- Rinse hair in the shower prior to swimming. Your hair can only absorb so much water (similar to a sponge). If your hair is wet prior to entering the pool, it will absorb less chlorine-filled pool water. This in turn means less damage.
- Apply a protective cap. While swim caps aren’t the most stylish of pool-side swimwear, they do offer protection.
- Try a specialty shampoo post-pool. Thanks to some crafty hair-care companies, there are now shampoos that can help rid your hair of chlorine deposits that like to stick around.