Like a wise frog once said “It isn’t easy being green.” Chlorine, even if it isn’t taking away your beautiful color, can be damaging your hair in other ways. We naturally create oils that protect each strand of hair from dirt and breakage, and it’s chlorine’s job to destroy oils (among other things). A few dips in the pool and your hair can be vulnerable to severe breakage.
But, let’s face it, it’s hot. And it’s only going to get hotter. You’re not going to skip the dip to save your look. So what can you do to protect your precious hair?
Before you stick your a single strand in the pool, hit the showers. Get your hair soaking wet, and don’t even towel it off before jumping in the pool. If your hair has already absorbed all the water it can handle, there’s no room for chlorinated pool water. You’ll still get some of the chlorine absorbed, but not nearly as much.
Once you’re out of the water, get all the chlorine that snuck in out. Rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water, and give it a good shampoo or two as well. There are a range of shampoos that are designed to get chlorine out of hair, but any cleanse is better than none.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! In order to do any damage, chlorine must be absorbed into your hair (that’s why showering first is a good idea), but even better is if you keep your hair moisturized round the clock. Use conditioner frequently (while there’s no chlorine in your hair) and deep condition often. If you know you have dry hair already, it’s time to step up your moisturizing routine.
If you start to feel that dry, straw-like texture, especially a day or two after you’ve been swimming, you’re probably about to see some severe chlorine damage. Get to the stylist immediately! We can work to remove any lingering chlorine and repair the damage that has already been done.
And take advantage of our May special: Buy a $25 retail gift set of some great products that can help restore your pool hair, and receive a $25 service certificate, good for use on your next visit! Win-win!