Chlorine-damaged hair

After swimming in a (chlorinated) pool, do you feel that your hair has become straw-like, dry and dull? If so, your hair may have been affected by chlorinated water. Chlorine and other pool chemicals can damage your hair's natural protective layer, causing it to lose moisture, break more quickly and become harder to comb through. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to take better care of your hair as well as reduce new stress.

How can you recognize chlorine-damaged hair?

Chlorine-laden hair is often recognized by a combination of signs. Your hair:

feels rough and dry, especially along the lengths and ends;
tangles easily and is difficult to comb through;
loses its shine and looks dull or matte;
breaks more easily and shows more split ends;
may change color or become duller on dyed hair.

With light or bleached hair, you may even see a greenish tinge after frequent swimming. This is due to a reaction between minerals and chlorine on the hair surface. Your scalp may also feel drier and more sensitive after frequent contact with chlorinated water.

What does chlorine do to your hair?

Chlorine cleans the pool water, but it can also affect your hair. It can:

reduce some of the natural layer of fat that protects the hair;
make the hair cuticles rougher;
cause moisture and color pigment to leave the hair faster;
leaving hair feeling drier.

In combination with sun, salt water or blow-drying and styling, this effect can become stronger. Therefore, it is wise to rinse well after swimming and take extra care of your hair.

How do you care for hair affected by chlorine?

Care starts with gentle cleansing and extra attention to hydration. It helps to use products that care for the hair without drying it out further:

Choose a gentle shampoo that gently cleanses hair and scalp.
After each wash, use a conditioning conditioner on the lengths and ends.
Use a nourishing hair mask occasionally.
Limit heat sources such as straighteners and blow dryers or use a heat protector.
If necessary, choose a leave-in product that helps make hair softer and more combable.

Natural products for hair that has been in contact with chlorine

With the right care products, you can help your hair feel softer and more combable again. Consider mild shampoos, conditioners and masks suitable for dry or fragile hair.

A selection of products from De Natuurlijke Kapper Shop

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The products above are selected for hair that could use extra care after contact with chlorinated water. They are aimed at taking care of dry or fragile hair.

What can you do before and after swimming?

You can reduce the stress of chlorine on your hair by taking good care of it before and after swimming:

Rinse your hair with clean water before swimming so that it absorbs less pool water.
If possible, wear a swim cap, especially with colored or dry hair.
If necessary, apply a little oil or leave-in conditioner beforehand.
Rinse your hair with clean water immediately after swimming.
Then wash your hair with a mild shampoo and use a conditioner.

Conclusion: take good care of your hair after swimming

Chlorinated water can cause hair to feel drier and more fragile. By rinsing out your hair thoroughly, cleansing mildly and caring for it regularly, you can help it feel softer and more combable again.

Do you enjoy swimming and want to properly care for your hair after contact with chlorinated water? Choose a product above that suits your hair type and add extra care to your hair care routine.