How To Maintain Healthy Hair as a Swimmer

Swimming frequently in chlorinated water can be harsh on your hair. Here are 7 tips to protect your hair... plus find our favourite hair care picks at the bottom!

1. Wet Your Hair Before Swimming

   Wetting your hair with fresh water (in the shower, or with a hose) before swimming can help reduce the amount of chlorinated water your hair absorbs.

2. Use Leave-In Conditioner

   Applying leave-in conditioner just before swimming can help protect it from chlorinated water.

3. Rinse or Wash Your Hair After Swimming

   After swimming, rinse your hair with fresh water to remove any chlorine residue. If possible, give it a wash to better remove chlorine from the hair

4. Use a Clarifying Shampoo

   For more regular swimmers, using a clarifying shampoo once a week can help remove any chlorine buildup from the hair.

   
   

5. Deep Condition Regularly

   Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it moisturized and healthy.

   
   

6. Limit Exposure

   If possible, try to limit the amount of time you spend in chlorinated water, and take breaks from swimming to give your hair a chance to recover. A good way to do this is by using a swim cap:

7. Use a Swim Cap

   A swim cap can provide a barrier between your hair and the pool water, reducing the amount of chlorine that comes into contact with your hair. Keep in mind that using a cap will not keep your hair dry if your head is being fully submerged, so if you, or a swimmer you know finds wearing a cap uncomfortable, it’s not necessary to follow this step.

Takeaway: chlorine is hard on your hair. Do what you can to limit your hair's exposure to it, and maintain good hair care practices.

Our Top Hair Care Picks

Clarifying Shampoos

1. Olaplex N.4C

2. Ouai Detox Shampoo

   
   

Leave-In Conditioners

1. Olaplex N.6

2. Marc Anthony Grow Long

   
   

Brushes

1. Tangle Teezer

2. Wet Brush

Swim Caps

1. Sporti Brand Swim Caps - for silicone caps with fun designs

2. Speedo Brand Swim Caps - a trusted brand