Protect your hair from chlorine

Not all hair reacts in the same way to everyday stresses, but if there is one thing that isn’t at all beneficial for any hair type, it’s chlorine; although the effects differ from person to person. Follow this advice to give your hair maximum protection this summer!
 
“Chlorine affects hair differently, depending on its condition and how much colouring it has endured. On weak or coloured hair, there are fewer barriers, meaning that the hair is less resistant to chemicals. It therefore absorbs the chlorine more easily, which is not good for it… But this works in both ways too! Meaning that it also easily soaks in any nourishing, hydrating products you apply.”
 
Chlorine can often cause your hair to dry out, so make sure you use nourishing products to keep it hydrated. In the worst of cases, especially if you have coloured hair, you might start to notice a slight green tinge to your hair: not the most attractive of looks! “This is very rare and can easily be rectified in the salon, but it’s not ideal at the time! To avoid this, take steps to protect your hair from chlorine from the start.”
 
The best protection against chlorine? A swimming cap. Even though it’s not the most eye-catching of accessories, it is the most effective in protecting against chlorine. You can easily find simple, neutral-coloured swim caps if you’re uncomfortable wearing one at first. “Silicon swim caps stay on your head the best. This flexible material moulds perfectly around the shape of your head for maximum protection.” These bathing accessories are also often a requirement in public swimming pools.
 
You can also cover your hair in a sun cream or oil. This will protect you from UV rays at the same time. “If you’re taking a dip in a private pool, apply as much product you want, but use sparingly in a public pool.”
 
Finally, don’t worry about having to bring your hairdryer to the pool during your holiday. “Just make sure you use heat protector spray when drying and use a hydrating hair mask once a week.”
 
Our tip: To make sure your hair stays soft and shiny, when you come out of the pool, rinse your hair with clean water and wash with a nourishing shampoo to give it some TLC.
 
© DR © Jean Louis David

You would also like...

  • Pre-summer sun hair care programme Hair care Pre-summer sun hair care programme
    There are many factors that can cause damage to your hair: the sun, the sea, the wind, pollution, chlorine… And in the summer, the majority of these elements are acting at once. Good hair care…
  • Massaging your scalp correctly Hair care Massaging your scalp correctly
    Massaging the scalp has many more important effects than you would imagine. As well as the relaxation benefits that it brings, scalp massage can also do your hair the world of good. So there’s no…
  • Co-washing, the solution for dry hair? Hair care Co-washing, the solution for dry hair?
    No, co-washing is not just another way of saying “2 in 1”, or a method of applying shampoo and conditioner at the same time. In fact, this term doesn’t mean at all what you think…
  • How to have great, untangled hair Hair care How to have great, untangled hair
    Although you take care of it, your hair gets tangled. Don’t blame yourself – all women are affected by it! Here are a few tips to avoid knots and untangle your hair according to the…

The expert Jean Louis David

Vanessa Giani

Head of training in Paris

Vanessa Giani