Hair-saving tricks and swim-proof styles that actually work.
If your hair always feels dry or stringy after a swim, you’re not imagining it. Pools can be brutal. But don’t worry – there are smart ways to prep, protect, and style your pool-day hair so it stays healthy, even with regular dips.
Unfortunately, yes. Although chlorine is necessary for sanitizing water in pools, it can be harsh on your strands. “Chlorine damages the protein structure of hair, weakening it and making it more prone to breakage,” says Caroline Ruggiero, certified trichologist at Truly You Hair & Scalp Clinic in Toronto. It also messes with your cuticle, boosts frizz, and can even leave a greenish tint, especially on light or color-treated hair.
Fight fire with fire. Or rather, fight water with water. “Your hair is like a sponge, so if it’s already saturated with clean water, it’s less likely to absorb damaging chlorine and chemicals,” explains Maximilian R. Sanchez, owner and lead stylist of White Salon & Spa in Atlanta.
After soaking your hair with clean water, coat it with a leave-in conditioner or a few drops of lightweight oil, like argan or jojoba, to lock in moisture and shield your strands. “The leave-in conditioner is going to protect hair, hair color, highlights, and/or keratin treatments from any elements, [or] chemicals that are added to a swimming pool, whether it is a chlorine or saltwater pool,” points out Drew Hudson, hair stylist at Salon 1905 in Gulfport.
The conditioner barrier takes a while to break down, keeping the inner cuticle protected from damage. Caroline recommends René Furterer’s KPF 50+ SOLAIRE Protective Summer Fluid for regular swimmers. “As a nice bonus, when the sun bakes the conditioner into your hair, it acts as a powerful conditioning treatment,” remarks Nikki Cestaro, author of SuperHairo and owner of Karmabeautystudio Inc.
As for UV protection, opinions differ. Some experts claim that conditioner for pool hair also acts like SPF, but Nikki has a word of warning. “I must stress that conditioner is not sunscreen, so additional SPF should be applied so as not to burn the scalp,” she says. Read the labels on the packaging, and if in doubt, apply a product formulated for shielding your hair and scalp from the sun if you swim in an outdoor pool.
If you’re hitting the pool regularly, ask your stylist about a gloss treatment. “It adds shine and acts as a semi-permeable shield that helps preserve hair color and strength,” says Maximilian.
Still wondering, “Should you wash your hair after the pool?” The short answer is yes. And the sooner, the better. Chlorine clings to your hair and strips away its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.
As soon as you get out of the pool, rinse your hair with clean water – a shower, a hose, or bottled water will do – and reapply the conditioner, gently combing it through the length. “I always bring a small bottle of conditioner and keep it in my beach bag with a detangling brush to do exactly that each time I get out of the pool,” Nikki shares a handy tip.
Use a clarifying shampoo weekly to clear out buildup, but don’t overdo it – unnecessarily frequent washing can dry out your scalp. A deep conditioner or hydrating mask will keep your hair nourished. Whenever you can, let your hair air dry to give it a break from heat styling.
“Note that wet hair can be more prone to damage in general because the hydrogen bonds in the hair are broken when hair is wet,” duly notes Caroline. Condition the length properly, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brushes for wet hair, and handle with care.
What hairstyle is best for the pool? It’s the one that keeps strands secure, tangles to a minimum, and doesn’t fall apart mid-lap. Here’s what to try during your next splash.
Braided styles keep your locks snug and protected, minimizing damage and preventing tangles and knots. From a boho loose braid to elaborate French or Dutch styles, there are plenty of plaited pool hairstyles to choose from. Pro tip: Avoid styles with large parts to protect your scalp from sunburn.
@martikabraidbar
This streamlined style is easy to construct and will keep your hair out of your face. Go for a classic pony, braid it, or rope twist the strands. “Avoid any rubber or elastic material ponytail holders while in the swimming pool, as that material will create tension on the ponytail itself,” warns Drew.
@samy.hairdo
Buns are versatile, pool-proof, and look good both dry and wet, taking your style from pool to pool party. Try a classy ballerina bun, a messy top knot, fun space buns, or a quick and easy claw clip bun.
@gemmanicholshairandmakeup
The poolside and gym are two places where women past the tween age can confidently wear pigtails. Recreate your childhood favorites with a spin, creating bubble braids, rope twists, or textured plaits. Low, sleek pigtails are also doable pool hairstyles for short hair.
@oliviashadders
An Afro puff keeps natural hair up and out of the water, which helps cut down on tangles and chlorine exposure. It’s quick to style, holds well through a swim, and still looks cute when it dries.
@ts_vsa
Swim days don’t have to wreck your hair – they just need a smarter game plan. A little prep and the right hairstyle can save your strands from pool damage. Check out more summer beauty tips for healthy hair and a list of must-have products for summer.
