Hair loves water, but not salt or chlorine. Here are some tips for keeping hair in great shape after swimming in the sea or in a pool.

Wash your hair after each swim in the sea or in the pool

It is enough to enter a swimming pool and to breathe the ambient air there to suspect that the water is particularly rich in disinfectants such as chlorine or bleach. These agents, which ensure good hygiene when swimming, are very aggressive for the hair.. As for the sea, its salt concentration is catastrophic on the hair: if you do not take care of it afterwards, the latter takes on the appearance of straw.

It might seem surprising, but the water in the swimming pool and that of the sea makes the hair dry. The secret to rehydrating them? Wash with a nourishing and moisturizing shampoo rich in shea or jojoba oil. After this step, perform a good rinse with not too hot water.

Nourish your hair

It is not a compulsory step but it is strongly recommended after a swim in the sea or in the swimming pool. Applying a mask to the hair nourishes it deeply and therefore, to make them silkier and shinier.

There are a host of hair masks on the market and you will probably have no problem finding the one that is right for you. However, rather than buying products that may contain toxic or allergenic substances, it is possible to make your own mask with natural products. Think about it!

Gentle drying

Once your hair is washed and rinsed, avoid blow-drying and prefer drying in the open air after rubbing them gently with a terry towel. This gesture is much less aggressive for your hair. And to avoid catching cold in the middle of winter, consider wearing a hat.

If, however, you really want to blow-dry your hair, choose a model with a specific technology that uses negative ions. These allow static electricity to be expelled and provide smoother drying.

How to protect your hair?

Sometimes prevention is better than cure. This maxim applies particularly to your hair, especially if it is colored. If you are used to going to the swimming pool, avoid, as much as possible, to wet your hair if your hairdresser made a coloring. The color of the latter can “turn” and give an unsightly rendering.

A good quality swimming cap provides effective protection while allowing you to swim without having to flex your neck too much. Tip: spread a little coconut oil on your hair before putting on your hat.

Perrine Deurot-Bien

Read also: Natural hair masks: the best homemade hair masks