How to safeguard your hair from damage when swimming regularly

Swimming is a wonderful activity for the body as it pretty much involves all of the body’s muscles. However, swimming regularly in the pool can lead to hair damage if proper care is not taken beforehand.

Swimming is a great form of exercise and is recommended to most adults on a regular basis. Swimming gets most of the muscles in the body involved while also working on cardio. However, regularly swimming can definitely take a toll on the hair.

Pools are abundant in chlorine and most beaches have plenty of saltwater. Both the chemicals can wreak havoc on the hair and damage it extensively, even leaving it dry and brittle. All of it can compound and result in permanent hair damage or even worse, hairfall.

However, keeping in mind just a few simple steps can help you protect your hair from chemicals while swimming and ensure their natural shine, glow, and volume. Here’s how you can take care of your hair while swimming regularly:

Wet your hair before swimming

A good advice is to wet the hair extensively before jumping into the pool. Fresh water should be used to wet the hair and this prevents the hair from absorbing too much chlorine or saltwater which could lead to dryness over time.

Use a swim cap regularly

A swim cap is the most effective way to protect the hair from chlorine and saltwater. A swim cap keeps the hair in place and also prevents it from obstructing your vision while taking a swim. Moreover, swim caps have also become a style and fashion statement for swimmers and there are great options available in the market.

Rinse hair after swimming

Even after using a swim cap, the hair must be washed and rinsed thoroughly after swimming. This leads to the removal of any chlorine and saltwater that may be present on the surface of the hair. Moreover, the hair can be rinsed using a strong clarifying shampoo after swimming to prevent damage.

Deep condition your hair

Chlorine and saltwater that remain in the hair after swimming can strip the hair of its natural oils. Over time, this could lead to dry and brittle hair that loses its natural shine and ability to protect itself from dandruff. This is why the hair should be deep conditioned at least once a week in order to restore its natural moisture and prevent extensive damage. The conditioner should be applied and left on for at least 5-10 minutes before washing it off. It is even better to apply a shampoo and rinse the hair thoroughly before applying the conditioner.

Prevent too much sun exposure

The sun and its UV rays can cause a lot of damage to the hair and when combined with chlorine or saltwater, the problem only gets worse. Wearing a hat or using a leave-in conditioner with SPF properties can help protect the hair from the sun’s harmful effects.

One doesn’t need to go out of his ways and the hair can be easily protected with a little bit of care and attention to ensure that the activity and enjoyment of swimming remains largely unaffected.