Best Healthy Hair Solutions for Swimmers

Swimmers often face challenges when it comes to maintaining healthy beautiful hair. I remember during the early years as a swimmer, my hair turned a gorgeous golden from the combination of chlorine and sun.

However, later in my teens it just turned an ugly shade of mint green. Embarrassing to say the least, especially as a teen! I just didn’t know how to care for my hair. Read on and I’ll show you how to protect your luscious locks.

Why Chlorine and Chemicals Ruin Your Hair?

The chemical properties of chlorine can strip the natural oils from your hair leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

Exposure to frequent chlorinated pools also leads to discoloration or a greenish tint in lighter hair colors. This is because chlorine reacts with metals present in the water, such as copper, forming a compound that adheres to the hair strands.

Damaging chemicals weaken the hair shaft and disrupt the protein structure of the hair.

Saltwater also damages your hair but it’s not as harsh. It just leaves it dry if you’re not diligent about rinsing it out after each swim.

To keep your locks looking healthy after swimming, it’s important to follow some simple hair care tips.

7 Hair Care Tips for Swimmers

Wet your hair in clean water before swimming which makes it less likely to absorb chlorine, other harsh pool chemicals or salt
Use coconut oil as a thin layer over your hair before putting on a swim cap. Compared to conditioner, coconut oil will stay on and not dissolve in the water
Wear a swim cap to provide an extra layer of protection for your hair. Lycra caps are better than latex and not as harsh on your strands
Use hydrating shampoo/conditioner rich in plant oils, keratin, glycerine, and silicone. These are my favorites
Consider a filter in the shower as it helps eliminate damaging chemicals in your tap water. These are easy filters for your shower head if you have a standard shower.
Rinse your hair every time you swim in a pool or open water. Even if you don’t feel like it, a quick rinse goes a long way
Avoid over-washing your hair after swimming as this just strips away natural oils. Use a weekly deep conditioner instead.

Bottom Line

By being diligent and taking proactive steps to protect your hair every time you swim, you can help prevent the damaging effects of chlorine, salt and other chemicals on your gorgeous strands.