The summer is finally here, and it’s time to start thinking about lazy days of leisure in the sun. But if you’re going anywhere near a swimming pool this year, it might be worth giving some thought to how you’re going to protect your hair from chlorine.
Why Does Chlorine Give Hair Such a Hard Time?
Chlorine is a strong disinfectant used in swimming pools to kill bacteria and algae. While this potent chemical is a necessary evil in terms of keeping us safe, it is very hard on our hair. However, occasional swimming usually leads to nothing more serious than dryness — which is reversed naturally after a day or two.
Our bodies are great at keeping our hair in good condition. Natural oils produced by the scalp moisturize and replenish nutrients. But repeated or prolonged exposure to chemicals can cause significant damage over time. The constant cycle of getting wet, drying and the stripping of oils has the potential to cause lasting hair damage.
There is a common misconception that chlorine can turn hair green. The green tint that many people report is actually caused by oxidized copper deposits in the water.
Should I Worry About Chlorine Damage?
If you’re only swimming for a few minutes a day over a relatively short period, you shouldn’t worry too much about hair damage. However, the risks are increased if your hair is dyed, tinted, highlighted or chemically treated. You should also take precautions if you have naturally dry hair, or if you’re prone to hair damage.
How Can I Protect My Hair from Chlorine Damage?
Fortunately, protecting your hair from the chlorine in swimming pools isn’t difficult. Just before you get into the pool, rinse your hair with fresh water and rinse again when you get out. If you don’t mind the inconvenience, wear a swim cap, which provides an effective barrier from pool water.
It’s also a good idea to shampoo and condition your hair after every pool session. This removes the chlorine completely and minimizes contact time. There are some very effective anti-chlorine shampoos on the market right now that strip away chlorine, moisturize and rejuvenate.
You might be advised to start using a clarifying shampoo, and there are various treatments available for scalp issues caused by chlorine. Regular conditioning and protein treatments are also options, so try not to worry too much — help is out there.
If you’re worried that pool water has caused permanent damage to your hair and you’d like to speak with a hair loss specialist, Genesis II can help with any type of scalp damage or hair loss and offers every proven solution available today. To schedule a free consultation call us at (315) 458-1074 or to contact us via email click here.
Photo Credit: jackmac34 Via Pixabay
