No one can deny the fact that swimming is a great way of fitness exercise. In addition to that, swimming pool water is a great way to cool off on a hot summer day. Gliding over the water might be relaxing until you realize how much damage chlorinated water is doing to your gorgeous hair.
In this article, we’ll show you some tips on how to protect your hair from swimming pool water, and how to take care of already damaged hair so that you can enjoy the pool without worrying about damage
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What Is Swimming Pool Water and What Does It Do to Hair?
Swimming pool water is a mix of chlorine and other chemicals that can damage your hair. The most common damage is caused by the chloramines, which are the main chemicals in swimming pool water.
Chloramine damage to hair occurs when the chlorine combines with ammonia and other organic compounds in the hair. This reaction leaves the hair with a yellowish color, a bad smell, and damaged proteins.
With all these damaging effects of chlorinated water to your hair, it is still essential to prevent bacterial growth in pool water. I know it’s not a win win but it is what it is..
Follow these simple tips to protect your hair from chlorinated pool water:
– Rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water after swimming or using the pool.
– Avoid using products that contain sulfates or harsh chemicals, which can further damage hair.
– Wear sunscreen if you are going to be out in the sun for long periods of time.
How Can You Protect Your Hair From Swimming Pool Water?
If you are like many who often swim in the pool then you must know swimming in pool water can be damaging to your hair and. it’s really important to take precautions to protect your hair from damage.
Swimming with wet hair can cause damage, including frizzing, split ends and even scalp fungus. Here are some tips on how to protect your hair from swimming pool water:
1. Shampoo before swimming
When you shampoo before swimming, you’ll remove any built-up salt and chlorine from your hair. This will help prevent damage and make your hair shiny and soft.
2. Don’t use hot water to shampoo
Using too much hot water can damage your hair because it can cause heat styling products to break down and form chemicals that can damage your hair follicles. Use cool or lukewarm water instead.
3. Oiling
Apply a thin layer of natural oils such as coconut oil, olive oil or jojoba before swimming. It will make a coating around your hair and protect them from chlorine absorption and damage.
4. Apply chlorine protectant
If you don’t want to oil then Invest in a good chlorine protectant and apply a layer before diving into the pool. It will help protect your sleek hairs from getting affected by chlorine.
5. Wear a swim cap
Most importantly, wear a swim cap. It is one of the best ways to protect your hair from swimming pool water. A good swim cap will protect your hair from getting wet and will keep it cool on hot days. Make sure the cap fits snugly and covers all of your hair..
6. Rinse well after swimming
After swimming, rinse off all the chlorine and salt with fresh water to avoid damaging your hair. Avoid using harsh shampoos or conditioners, which can also be damaging to your locks.
7. Air dry your hair
Don’t use a blow dryer to dry your hair because using too much heat can damage your hair causing it to become dry and brittle, a research says. If you really feel a need to dry try using a soft towel for this purpose.
8. Avoid using hair products
Another point of how to protect your hair from swimming pool water is to avoid using hair products. Hair products can contain chemicals such as sulfates or phthalates that can be dangerous if they get into the pool water and are absorbed by your hair.
They can also release chlorine into the pool water.
9. Stay hydrated
One important way to prevent damage to your hair from swimming pool water is to stay hydrated. When you are dehydrated, your body sends more blood flow to your head, which can cause hair loss and other skin problems.
10. Use an Outdoor pool
It is better to use a pool which is located in open air. The reason is, an open atmosphere helps evaporate chlorine from pool water making the water less chlorine concentrated. Consequently decreasing the amount of damage it can do your hair.
What to Do If You Already Have Swimming Pool Hair Damage
If you have swimming pool hair damage, there are a few things you can do to protect your hair from further damage.
1. Check the pH level of the water: The higher the pH level, the more acidic the water is. This can cause hair damage if it gets into the hair. To test the pH level of your pool, take a pH meter reading before and after swimming. If it has risen significantly, make some major adjustments to your pool’s pH level (ie. adding lime or soda ash) to keep it in check.
2. Use a locking cover for your pool: A locking cover will help keep the pH level of your pool stable, and will protect your hair from getting wet. You can find these covers at most hardware stores or online.
3. Use a sunscreen with a protective factor of at least 30: Sunscreen with a protective factor of 30 will help protect against both UVA and UVB radiation, which can cause damage to the hair follicles. Look for sunscreens with these labels when shopping for them online or in store.
Wrap up
Chlorine may be the most damaging component of pool water to your hair. To get rid of undesirable microorganisms, nevertheless, is necessary. The greatest thing you can do is learn what chlorine does to your hair and manage it appropriately because you can’t completely avoid it. With this information, you may also take the necessary precautions to protect your hair from chlorine damage and enjoy your swimming as well.
