If your workout consists of time in the pool, you've probably been tempted from time to time to keep your hair dry during your routine. Because you're spending your time in the water, you probably need to resign yourself to getting your hair a little bit wet, but you can don a swim cap to keep your hair from becoming saturated.
Benefits of Keeping Hair Dry
Pool water has a number of chemicals in it that can strip your hair of its natural oils, causing your hair to become dull. If you can keep your hair at least moderately dry during your swim, you can help prevent some of the damage that pool water can cause. And if you have light colored hair, keeping your hair dry can help prevent the dreaded green tint that sometimes accompanies chlorine-treated swimming pools.
Types of Swim Caps
Three basic types of swim caps dominate the market. Latex caps are the least expensive, but for good reason: they break and rip easily and they have a tendency to pull your hair. Silicone caps cost more, but they're made of thicker material, making them a more durable option. Finally, lycra caps are made from a fabric material. They don't do a whole lot toward keeping your hair dry, but they do hold your hair back and they can serve as a "liner," making it easier to slip a silicone or latex cap over the top of your head.
Function of Swim Caps
Even though you may want to use swim caps to help keep your hair dry, that's not really their overall purpose. Swim caps actually serve to keep your hair back, your body heat in and to protect your hair from some of the pool's chemicals. Competitive swimmers also use swim caps to reduce any potential drag caused by loose hair.
Tips for Keeping Hair Dry
No perfect solution exists for keeping your hair dry. When you are in the water, you need to resign yourself to getting at least a little bit wet. But, you can do a couple things to stay a little drier. If you have long hair, pull it back into a ponytail, then wrap it into a bun. If you have hair that consistently pulls out of your ponytail, try clipping it up with bobby pins or flat hair clips. Place a lycra cap over your hair, pushing any loose strands or hairs up under the cap. Because the lycra cap provides more flexibility, you'll have an easier time adjusting loose hairs. Once your hair appears to be fully covered, pull on a thick silicone cap. With a silicone cap, there's less risk of inadvertent rips and tears. If you have a large bun or very long ponytail, you might want to consider purchasing a cap specially designed for long hair. These caps provide extra space in the back to hold your hair.
If you're still worried about getting your hair wet, choose a water workout that allows you to keep your face above water. Most water aerobics classes, especially those taking place in shallow water, afford you this opportunity.
Considerations
If your hair still gets a little wet despite all your efforts, you can still take steps to keep your hair healthy. Immediately after getting out of the water, shampoo and condition your hair, cleaning your hair of any residual chlorine. If you swim often, consider using a special chlorine-removal shampoo.
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