When the weather starts warming up, nothing feels better than a leisurely dip in the pool. With pools comes necessary pool chemicals, like chlorine, though. In particular chlorine is great for keeping your pool clean… but not so great for your skin and hair. Here are some easy ways to prevent chlorine damage so you can soak up the fun without the side effects.
Tips to Prevent Chlorine Damage to Your Skin & Hair
- Rinse off before and after your swim: A simple and easy way to prevent chlorine damage is to rinse off with clean water before and after your swim. Since your body can only absorb so much moisture, this helps reduce the amount of chlorinated water your hair and skin absorbs during your swim.
- Protect with natural oils: For added hair protection against chlorine damage, create a barrier with natural oils. You can do this by applying coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba oil to your hair. Some leave-in conditioners can also provide this barrier to keep your hair happy and healthy while you have fun in the sun.
- Air dry: Avoid using a hair dryer after a swim. Pool water tends to dry out skin and hair, especially after regular use, which leads to damage over time. Air drying helps retain moisture and prevent your hair from feeling dry and brittle. If you have thick hair that takes a long time to dry naturally, try using a towel to gently absorb excess water.
- Stay hydrated: Being hydrated inside and out is essential to preventing chlorine damaged hair and skin. That means using sunscreen, lip balm, and drinking plenty of water so your body absorbs less chlorinated water while also naturally replenishing fluids. This also makes flushing out chemicals and toxins easier too.
- Try an at-home rinse: For swimmers with sensitive hair, it can be tough to protect your locks from chlorine damage. There are plenty of options for clarifying shampoos out there but if you’re looking for short-term help you can also try some at-home solutions too. Mixing one part apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water can act as a great, all natural way to get any lingering chemicals out of your hair. Alternatively you can also make a paste with one part baking soda to two parts water to create a paste. Massaging the paste into your hair should also help lift out any green tint left behind by chlorine as well.
Keep Swimming Smart, Let All Poolside Help You Protect What Matters
Chlorine doesn’t have to come between you and your love for the water. With a few simple habits and the right products, you can enjoy every dip without worrying about damage to your skin or hair. Have questions or need help finding the right pool care essentials? Contact All Poolside today! Our experts are here to help you swim smarter, not harder.
