Debunking Common Myths About Hair Care for Swimmers

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise and a fun recreational activity, but it can take a toll on your hair. Many swimmers worry about the damage that chlorine and salt water can cause, leading to a plethora of myths about hair care for swimmers. 

These myths often lead to confusion and improper hair care routines. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common myths about swimmer's hair and provide accurate tips on hair care for swimmers.

Myth 1: Chlorine Turns Your Hair Green

One of the most persistent myths is that chlorine turns your hair green. While it’s true that swimmers often notice a greenish tint, chlorine isn’t the direct culprit. 

The real reason is the presence of copper and other metals in the water that bind to the proteins in your hair. Chlorine simply acts as a catalyst, facilitating this bonding process.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 1:

To prevent greenish hair, use a water defence spray designed to keep away chlorine and metals from your hair. Additionally, rinsing your hair with clean water before swimming can help minimise the absorption of harmful chemicals.

Myth 2: Chlorine Damages Hair Beyond Repair

Many people believe that once your hair is exposed to chlorine, it’s irreparably damaged. While chlorine can be harsh on hair, leading to dryness and brittleness, it doesn’t mean your hair is beyond repair. With proper hair care for swimmers, you can restore and maintain healthy hair.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 2:

After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water and use a deep-conditioning treatment weekly to replenish lost moisture. Using a leave-in conditioner before swimming can also provide a protective barrier against chlorine.

Myth 3: You Should Wash Your Hair Immediately After Swimming

It’s a common belief that you should always wash your hair immediately after swimming. While it’s important to rinse out chlorine and saltwater, over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to further dryness.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 3:

Instead of shampooing/cleansing immediately after every swim, rinse your hair thoroughly with water and apply a conditioner to maintain moisture. Shampooing/Cleansing two to three times a week is sufficient to keep your hair clean without stripping it of essential oils.

Myth 4: Saltwater is Less Damaging than Chlorine

Some swimmers think that swimming in the ocean is less damaging to their hair than swimming in a chlorinated pool. While saltwater lacks the harsh chemicals found in pool water, it can still dehydrate your hair, causing it to become dry and brittle.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 4:

Regardless of whether you swim in a pool or the ocean, it’s essential to rinse your hair with fresh water afterwards. Using a hydrating mask or conditioner designed for hair care for swimmers can help counteract the drying effects of saltwater.

Myth 5: Wearing a Swim Cap Will Completely Protect Your Hair

Swim caps are often believed to keep your hair completely dry and protected from chlorine and saltwater. While they can reduce exposure, no swim cap is entirely waterproof, and water will inevitably seep in.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 5:

Wear a swim cap to minimise water exposure, but also use a leave-in conditioner or a protective serum underneath the cap for added protection. Rinsing your hair before putting on the swim cap can help create a barrier against chlorinated or salty water.

Myth 6: Only Blonde Hair is Affected by Swimming

Many people think that only blonde hair is affected by swimming because it’s more noticeable when blonde hair turns green or becomes dry and brittle. However, all hair colours can be damaged by chlorine and saltwater.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 6:

Hair care for swimmers is essential regardless of your hair colour. Regular conditioning, using swimmer-specific hair products, and protecting your hair before and after swimming are crucial steps for everyone.

For complete swimmer’s hair protection, check out The Earth Collective’s swimmer’s hair care duo today!

Myth 7: Swimmer’s Hair Is Just a Cosmetic Issue

Some believe that the effects of swimming on hair are purely cosmetic and don’t require serious attention. In reality, proper hair care for swimmers can help combat issues like scalp irritations & hair fall.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 7:
Treat your hair with the same care you would give your skin. Regular deep-conditioning treatments, gentle detangling, and the use of protective products are necessary to maintain both the health and appearance of your hair.

Myth 8: Natural Oils in Your Hair Will Protect Against Chlorine

It’s a common misconception that the natural oils produced by your scalp will protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine. While these oils do offer some protection, they are not sufficient to prevent chlorine damage entirely.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 8:
Enhance your hair’s natural defences by applying a protective oil or conditioner before swimming. These products can provide an extra layer of protection against chlorine and saltwater.

Myth 9: Hair Won’t Get Damaged if You Don’t Swim Often

Some swimmers think that occasional swimming won’t damage their hair. However, even infrequent exposure to chlorine or salt water can lead to cumulative damage over time.

Hair Care for Swimmers Tip 9:
Regardless of how often you swim, always follow a hair care routine designed for swimmers. Rinsing your hair, conditioning, and using protective products are essential every time you swim.

Conclusion

Understanding and debunking these myths about swimmer’s hair is crucial for maintaining healthy locks. Hair care for swimmers involves more than just rinsing out the chlorine or saltwater. 

It requires a comprehensive routine that includes protection, hydration, and regular maintenance. By following the tips provided and using appropriate hair care products, swimmers can enjoy their time in the water without compromising the health and beauty of their hair.