Summer is the season of swimming, whether it’s in the pool, at the beach, or at the lake. While we love swimming as the perfect way to cool down on a hot day, it can also wreak havoc on your hair, especially with frequent exposure to chlorine. But fear not! One of your favorite salons is here this month with a few simple steps you can take to protect your hair and keep it healthy all summer long.
Pre-Swim Preparation
Before you even step into the pool, there are steps you can take to minimize chlorine damage:
- Wet Your Hair: Rinse your hair with fresh water before swimming. Wet hair absorbs less chlorine than dry hair.
- Apply a Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner or hair oil can create a protective barrier against chlorine.
- Wear a Swim Cap: While not the most fashionable accessory, if you’re looking to go the extra mile, a swim cap is highly effective in protecting your hair from chlorine.
Rinse Immediately After Swimming
One of the most essential steps in your post-swim hair care routine is to rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water as soon as you get out of the pool. This helps to wash away chlorine and prevent it from lingering in your hair and causing further damage.
Use a Clarifying Shampoo
Once you’re home, use a clarifying shampoo to remove any remaining chlorine and buildup from your hair. Clarifying shampoos are specially formulated to deep clean your hair and scalp, but they can be drying, so it’s best to use them sparingly—about once a week should suffice.
Hydrate with a Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner
Follow up with a moisturizing shampoo and a deep conditioner. These products will help to restore moisture and elasticity to your hair. Look for shampoos and conditioners that contain hydrating ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, coconut oil, and shea butter.
Deep Conditioning Treatments
Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine once a week. You can use store-bought treatments or make your own at home using natural ingredients.
Protect Your Hair from the Sun
Just like chlorine, the sun can also damage your hair. When you’re lounging by the pool, protect your hair by wearing a hat or using a UV-protectant spray. These sprays can shield your hair from the sun’s harmful rays and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.
The Style Lounge | Reading Salons
Whether you’re searching for a new look, color refresh, or something in between, you can trust one of your favorite salons to get you feeling and looking your best. To schedule an appointment or explore our range of services, check out our website or contact our stylists today!
