Summer is here, and nothing beats a refreshing dip in the pool. However, if you have curly hair, you might be wary of the damage that chlorine and saltwater can inflict on your beautiful curls. Fear not! With the right techniques and products, you can enjoy swimming while keeping your curls healthy and vibrant. Here’s how to protect your curls in the pool.
Why Do Pools and Curly Hair Not Mix Well?
Chlorine, saltwater, and even pool chemicals can be harsh on curly hair. They can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz, and breakage. Curly hair, which is naturally more prone to dryness, needs special care to maintain its moisture and definition.
Pre-Swim Prep: Your First Line of Defense
1. Rinse Before You Swim
Before jumping into the pool, rinse your hair with fresh water. Wet hair absorbs less chlorine, so this simple step can significantly reduce chlorine damage.
 2. Apply a Protective Barrier
Coat your hair with a leave-in conditioner or a natural oil like coconut oil. This creates a barrier between your curls and the harsh pool chemicals.
3. Use a Swim Cap
While not the most fashionable, a swim cap is highly effective. It protects your hair from water exposure and helps keep your curls intact.
During the Swim: Minimising Damage
1. Keep Your Hair Up
Try to keep your hair out of the water as much as possible. Opt for protective hairstyles like braids, buns, or twists.
2. Avoid Excessive Chlorine Exposure
Take breaks and rinse your hair with fresh water periodically to minimise chlorine absorption.
Post-Swim Care: Reviving Your Curls
1. Rinse Immediately
After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly to remove chlorine and salt residue. Use fresh water to start the cleansing process.
2. Shampoo and Deep Condition
Use a clarifying shampoo to cleanse your hair thoroughly. Follow up with a deep conditioner to restore moisture and nutrients. Consider a product like the Hella Curls Reactivating Formula Deep Conditioner and Nourishing Formula Leave-In Conditioner for intense hydration and curl definition.
3. Moisturise and Seal
After rinsing out the conditioner, apply a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture. Seal with a natural oil to keep your curls hydrated and protected.
Recommended Products for Protecting Curly Hair
1. Hella Curls Nourishing Formula Leave-In Conditioner: Perfect for deep hydration and frizz control.
2. SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner: Excellent for strengthening and restoring damaged curls.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Healthy Curls
- Regular Trims: Keep your curls healthy by trimming regularly to prevent split ends.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out.
- Gentle Handling: Avoid harsh brushing and use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle.
Conclusion
Swimming doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your gorgeous curls. With the right pre-swim prep, during-swim care, and post-swim routine, you can protect your curls and enjoy all the fun that comes with hitting the pool. Embrace these tips and dive into summer with confidence!
Ready to keep your curls looking fabulous? Try the Hella Curls Nourishing Formula Leave-In Conditioner for the ultimate in hydration and curl definition.