Swimming is a fantastic way to beat the summer heat and enjoy some refreshing exercise, but if you have natural hair, you may worry about the potential damage caused by chlorinated or salt water. Fret not! In this blog post, we will review effective techniques and tips to protect your natural hair while diving into the pool or embracing the ocean waves.
Prepare your hair. Before you take the plunge, it is essential to prepare your hair to minimize the impact of chlorinated or salt water. Start by saturating your hair with fresh water or a leave-in conditioner. This helps create a barrier, preventing excessive absorption of the pool or ocean water. Additionally, applying a thin layer of oil or a natural hair sealant can help seal the hair cuticles and minimize moisture loss. Try jojoba, sweet almond, olive, avocado, grapeseed, Jamaican black castor oils, which are all well-suited for natural hair [1].
Protective Hairstyles. Consider wearing a protective hairstyle that keeps your hair secure while swimming. Options like braids, twists, buns, or even a well-fitted swimming cap can help shield your hair from direct contact with chlorinated or salt water. These styles not only protect your strands but also make post-swim detangling much more manageable [2].
Rinse with Fresh Water. After your swim, it is crucial to rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water as soon as possible. This will remove any residual chlorine or saltwater, preventing it from drying out your strands. Gently
massage your scalp to ensure all the impurities are washed away. If you don’t have access to fresh water immediately, consider carrying a spray bottle filled with water and a little conditioner to rinse your hair on the go.
Deep Conditioning. To replenish lost moisture and restore your hair’s vitality, deep conditioning is a must. Choose a moisturizing and nourishing deep conditioner that suits your hair type. Apply it generously from root to tip, cover your hair with a shower cap, and let the conditioner work its magic for the recommended time. Rinse thoroughly, and you’ll notice your hair feeling softer, more hydrated, and resilient [3].
Moisturize and Seal. To lock in moisture post-swim, it’s essential to follow up with a leave-in conditioner or moisturizer specifically designed for natural hair. Look for products that contain humectants (substances that help reduce moisture loss) like glycerin or aloe vera to attract and retain moisture. After applying the leave-in conditioner, seal it in with a natural oil or butter (try mango or shea butter) to lock in moisture and protect your hair throughout the day.
Avoid Heat Styling. Exposing your hair to heat styling tools after swimming can further dehydrate your strands. Give your hair a break and embrace air-drying or gentle styling methods like twist-outs or braid-outs. If you must use heat, ensure you apply a heat protectant spray or serum to minimize damage.
Swimming should be a fun experience for everyone. Embrace your natural hair and dive into the water with confidence, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to maintain a healthy head of hair!
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to be used for diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment purposes. This is not medical advice. Please see your physician or care provider with any questions or concerns.
Bibliography
[1] “These 12 Oils Are Perfect for Natural Hair,” Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/best-oils-for-black-hair-400431 (accessed Jul. 14, 2023).
[2] “How to protect your hair when swimming,” All Things Hair South Africa.
https://www.allthingshair.com/en-za/hair-care/protect-your-hair-when-swimming/ (Mar. 19, 2021).
[3] “How to Use Leave-In Conditioner, Benefits, and Precautions,” Healthline, Sep. 22, 2020.
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-use-leave-in-conditioner#choosing-a-product (accessed Jul. 14, 2023).
