Swimming may be one of the best forms of exercise, but it can be one of the worst things for the health and appearance of your hair. Regular exposure to chlorine and other chemicals in swimming pools and/or sun and saltwater can dry your hair out and lead to discoloration, such as a greenish tint. Following a few precautions before and after you take a dip can help maintain the health and appearance of your hair.
Swimming Cap
An easy and inexpensive way to keep your hair healthy while swimming is simply by wearing a swimming cap. These rubber-like covers will keep the hair on your head dry and protect it from coming into contact with damaging chemicals in the water.
Pre-Swim Conditioning
Protective conditioners or oils can also help protect hair from the harmful effects of swimming pool or salt water. A small amount of coconut oil, olive oil or baby oil, combed in before you swim, will serve as a barricade between water and your hair, according to Hair Loss Expert.com UK.
Wet Your Hair
Soaking hair in regular water before swimming also helps to protect hair. Dry hair reacts like a sponge when it comes into contact with water. Wet hair will absorb far less chlorine or salt water. For those who swim for extended periods, rinsing hair with non-chlorinated water twice an hour will help to prevent damage.
After-Swim Rinse and Shampoo
Thoroughly rinsing hair with clean, warm water for 3 to 5 minutes after swimming will help maintain the health of your hair. Washing with a clarifying shampoo will further prevent damage to your hair. Free Beauty tips.org explains that shampoos that contain aloe or glycerin act as a natural moisturizer and can help fight the drying effects of chlorine. Gently pat dry your hair with a towel or use the cool setting on your hair dryer.
After-Swim Conditioning
Leave-in conditioners that contain humectants also help protect hair after swimming. Apply a leave-in conditioner with a wide-toothed comb. Mayonnaise is also an effective home remedy for dry hair caused by swimming. Rub no more than 1/2 cup of mayonnaise into your dry hair and cover with a plastic bag. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly and shampoo. Those with very dry hair or hair with extensive breakage may consider a professional conditioning treatment.
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