Protect Natural Hair While Swimming: Chlorine & Salt Protection
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Why is it important to protect your hair while swimming?
- Pre-swim preparation: Spraying your hair with water
- Splitting your hair into sections
- a. Working on the bottom half
- b. Soaking the hair with water
- Using conditioner for protection
- a. Choosing a natural conditioner
- b. Applying the conditioner to every strand
- Adding hair and body oil for further protection
- a. Benefits of using hair and body oil
- b. Applying oil to every strand
- Twisting your hair and securing it
- a. Benefits of twisting the hair
- b. Securing the twists with bobby pins
- Styling options for twisted hair
- a. Top knot bun style
- b. Other styling options
- Tips for wearing a swim cap
- a. Securing the twists lower on the head
- b. Avoiding the "cone head" look
- Post-swim hair care routine
- a. Washing the hair immediately after swimming
- b. Rinsing and conditioning each section
- c. Sealing in moisture with hair and body oil
- Conclusion
🏊♀️ How to Protect Your Hair While Swimming
Swimming is a great way to relax and cool off during the summer months, but it can take a toll on your hair. The chlorine and saltwater can strip away the natural oils, leaving your hair dry, brittle, and prone to damage. If you're a novice swimmer or swim occasionally, you may not need to worry too much. However, for those who swim competitively or simply want to protect their hair from the harmful effects of chlorine or salt, there are steps you can take to preserve the health and beauty of your locks.
🌊 Pre-swim preparation: Spraying your hair with water
Before you jump into the pool or ocean, it's a good idea to wet your hair with clean water. This initial step will make it easier to work with your hair and ensure that it absorbs less chlorine or saltwater. Grab a spray bottle and spritz your entire head thoroughly, making sure every strand is damp. This will also help prevent your hair from absorbing excessive amounts of pool or ocean water.
🔀 Splitting your hair into sections
To make the hair protection process more manageable, divide your hair into sections. Start by securing one side away and focus on the remaining side. Split the hair into a top and bottom half, and we'll begin by working on the bottom half first. By dividing your hair, you can ensure that every strand receives adequate protection.
a. Working on the bottom half
Once you have separated the bottom half of your hair, it's time to soak it with water. Be generous and spray the hair until it is fully saturated. Ensure that every strand is thoroughly drenched to create a barrier between your hair and the chlorine or saltwater.
b. Using conditioner for protection
While most people prefer using natural hair products, choosing a conditioner becomes crucial when it comes to protecting your hair from chlorine or salt. Look for the cheapest conditioner available, preferably one with minimal chemical ingredients. Trader Joe's tea tree tingle conditioner is an excellent option that is affordable and leaves your hair feeling soft. Squeeze out a generous amount of conditioner and apply it to the section, making sure to coat every strand, especially the ends.
➕ Adding hair and body oil for further protection
To enhance the protective properties of the conditioner, consider adding a few drops of hair and body oil. This step will not only help lock in moisture but also create an additional barrier against the harsh chemicals present in the pool or ocean water. If you don't have a specialized oil mixture, olive oil can also be a suitable alternative. Apply the oil to every strand, ensuring complete coverage from roots to ends.
🌀 Twisting your hair and securing it
At this point, you have the option to leave your hair as is or twist it up to keep it out of the way while swimming. Twisting your hair not only protects it from tangling but also creates a more streamlined look if you're swimming competitively. If you choose to twist your hair, start by securing the twisted section with hairpins. This will prevent the twists from unraveling and keep them in place, providing added protection.
💁♀️ Styling options for twisted hair
Once you have twisted your hair, you can style the twists in various ways to suit your preferences. One popular style is the top knot bun, where the twists are gathered on top of the head and wrapped into a bun shape. Use bobby pins to secure the bun in place. If you're not a fan of the bun style, feel free to explore other styling options that keep your hair secure and manageable while swimming.
🩲 Tips for wearing a swim cap
If you plan on wearing a swim cap, positioning the twists correctly is essential to ensure a comfortable fit. Secure your twisted hair lower on your head, making sure it doesn't create a bulky or uneven surface underneath the cap. This way, you can avoid the dreaded "cone head" look and maintain a sleek appearance while swimming.
🚿 Post-swim hair care routine
After you've enjoyed your time in the water, it's crucial to wash your hair as soon as possible. Since you have already divided your hair into preconditioned sections, the post-swim routine becomes more manageable. Unravel each twist and give it a quick rinse, working on one section at a time. Once rinsed, apply your preferred cleanser or conditioner to the section, ensuring thorough coverage. Rinse again and seal in the moisture by working a hair and body oil mixture into the section. Finally, twist up the section and move on to the next, repeating the process until every section has been cared for.
🎉 Conclusion
Don't let the fear of damaging your hair hold you back from enjoying a refreshing swim this summer. By following these simple steps to protect your hair while swimming, you can have fun in the pool or ocean without worrying about the harmful effects of chlorine or saltwater. Remember to prepare your hair beforehand, use a conditioner and oil for added protection, and style your hair in a way that keeps it secure and manageable. After swimming, maintain a post-swim hair care routine to restore moisture and keep your locks healthy and vibrant. So, dive in and have a splashing good time!
📝 Resources:
- Trader Joe's tea tree tingle conditioner from Trader Joe's stores Link
- Olive oil Link
Highlights:
- Protecting your hair while swimming is essential to prevent damage caused by chlorine or saltwater.
- Wetting your hair with clean water before swimming creates a barrier against harmful chemicals.
- Splitting your hair into sections helps ensure every strand is adequately protected.
- Using a natural, affordable conditioner coats the hair and adds moisture.
- Adding hair and body oil further protects and locks in moisture.
- Twisting and securing your hair keeps it out of the way and prevents tangling.
- Styling options for twisted hair include the top knot bun and other creative styles.
- Tips for wearing a swim cap without compromising comfort or appearance.
- A post-swim hair care routine involving rinsing, conditioning, and sealing in moisture.
- Enjoy swimming without worrying about hair damage by following these steps.
FAQ:
Q: Can I swim with my hair out without twisting it?
A: Yes, you can choose to swim with your hair out if you prefer not to twist it. Just make sure to protect it with conditioner and oil.
Q: How often should I wash my hair after swimming?
A: It is recommended to wash your hair immediately after swimming to remove chlorine or salt residue.
