Chlorine in pool water can dry out and fade your hair’s natural pigment.
During the summer, frequent and prolonged exposure to pool water can be damaging to hair. Chlorine dries out the hair and fades its natural pigment, while copper ions (added to prevent algae growth) can cause a greenish hue. Wearing a swim cap can prevent or significantly reduce contact with these metals in the pool water.
Oil and Conditioner
However, many recreational swimmers avoid wearing caps, making them susceptible to the aforementioned damage. This is especially true for individuals with colored hair (particularly blonde shades), dry hair, thin or thinning hair, and already damaged hair. Fortunately, there are ways to tackle this issue even without a swim cap. Simply rinsing the hair with plain water from the shower before entering the pool can be beneficial as it minimizes the effects of pool water. Avoid shampooing the hair, as shampoos react negatively with chlorine and further dry out the hair. Prior to swimming, apply a thin layer of coconut oil or conditioner to the hair as a protective barrier.
The oil will create a barrier between the hair and chlorine, while the silicone in the conditioner will prevent chlorine and other chemicals from clinging to the strands. Conditioner also helps prevent tangling. Rinse the hair immediately after leaving the pool, as prolonged contact with chlorine causes more damage. It is advisable to wash the hair with shampoo and apply conditioner right away. Special shampoos designed to remove chlorine from the hair are available, which is an excellent solution for frequent pool users. Ideally, allow the hair to air dry and use a wide-toothed comb to detangle it.
