In summer, public and private swimming pools are some of the most frequented places to endure the heat, especially in cities without a beach.
It is a very refreshing and fun option, both for Men and children. Even so, it should be noted that chemical products such as chlorine are often used for the maintenance and cleaning of the pool. Constant exposure to chlorinated water has unfavourable effects on our skin, hair, and mucous membranes, especially due to the fact that it eliminates the natural oils from the epidermis. Let’s discuss in detail how we can protect our hair and skin while going to Pool.
Protect hair on the beach and in the pool
All of us who have hair that is dry, curly, afro, or punished by dyes or irons, know how bad repeated sessions at the beach and pool can make you feel. So, let’s see how to properly protect it.
If we neglect our hair in summer, at the end of August, and already in September it will be crying out to be repaired.
The signs are clear: it feels very dry, it has lost definition, it tangles more often, and it no longer shines as before. The increased frequency of showers, the hard water from the beach and chlorinated from the pool, the intense rays of the sun damage the hair.
However, there is good news. You can take a bath as much as you want and avoid hair damage. I tell you in detail below. Let’s go for it!
4 steps to protect hair at the beach and pool
STEP 1 – Wet hair
First, you have to wet your hair completely with water before bathing. To do this, use the shower on the premises, or apply your own water in a spray applicator bottle. Apply pre swimming lotion to your whole body. This trick is essential to start taking care of our hair and skin before taking that much-desired dip at the beach or pool.
Why are we doing this?
When dry, our hair and skin absorb all the water that is offered to it. Pool water can contain salts, chlorine, or other soluble substances that are harmful to our hair. For this reason, it is necessary to provide the hair and skin with clean water before bathing, free of any type of residue or chemical ingredients. The body lotion helps to prevent absorb pool water which is saturated with chemicals.
STEP 2 – Condition the hair
Apply a conditioner and do not remove it. Interestingly, conditioners with silicone will be the best barrier to protect your hair when you dive into the water. So, if your hair tolerates silicones well, use them without fear! Try to leave in conditioner for swimmers before swimming is the best option.
For adequate hair protection against the sun’s rays, we have two options. The first option is to apply a natural conditioner that, in addition to hydration, offers sun protection on the hair. In this way, it is avoided that it is damaged, weakened, and the colour loses intensity.
The second option is to use natural oils or butter with natural UV protection. For example, pure shea butter, and pure coconut oil. Both have properties to protect hair from the sun.
STEP 3 – Comb
If you want to protect your hair, even more, do an updo or a protective style. You can do hairstyles that keep the hair tight and close to the head.
For example, a bun or braids. To detangle and comb you can use a leave-in conditioner if it has silicone better since they facilitate this essential task. With its use, the hair is protected and strengthened, and breakage is prevented.
In some pools, wearing a hat is mandatory. Collect the hair very well in a compact way to place the swimming cap.
For those of us who have afro or curly hair, it is advisable to wear two hats. First, a silicone or latex one to prevent it from getting wet with chlorinated water. Then, on top of it, place a lycra hat.
If you are one of those people who hesitate to wear a hat for long periods of time outdoors, I encourage you to rethink it. Wearing a hat, of any kind, outdoors whenever possible.
This accessory, especially if it has a wide brim, will help you protect your hair and skin from the intense rays of the sun. In this way, you will avoid the dangers of premature ageing and skin cancer, as well as sun damage to the hair.
STEP 4 – Rinse and wash hair
Finally, when you have finished enjoying the last dip, rinse the hair again with plenty of clean water, as at the beginning.
If you have bathed in a pool, as soon as possible, wash your hair with one of these shampoos. I have selected them, especially for this occasion. With them, you will remove the chlorine without drying the hair or skin.
When you rinse the shampoo, apply a deep conditioner, preferably with a rinse. Finally, if possible apply your favourite serum or oil to seal the cuticle, retaining hydration inside and preventing hair from feeling dry right away.
I hope you have learned how to take care of your hair and skin to go swimming, and that you enjoy its true beauty at all times.
