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Hello everyone,
As a massage therapist who deeply believes in the power of self-care, I wanted to share some of my experiences and tips on a topic close to my heart: protecting our beautiful natural curls while swimming, especially in chlorine pools.
Swimming is a fantastic way to relax and exercise, but chlorine can be quite harsh on our hair, leading to dryness, discoloration, and overall damage. Through my journey, I’ve discovered some effective ways to keep my curls healthy and vibrant even after a dip in the pool.
Pre-Swim Prep
1. Pre-Rinse with Clean Water: Before you dive in, thoroughly wet your hair with clean water. This helps to saturate your hair, reducing its ability to absorb chlorinated water.
2. Apply a Protective Layer: I love applying a generous amount of conditioner or natural oils like coconut, olive, or jojoba oil. These create a barrier, preventing chlorine from penetrating the hair shaft. Sometimes, I even mix a little honey with the oil for added moisture and protection.
3. Wear a Swim Cap: While it might not be the most stylish accessory, a swim cap is incredibly effective. If you dampen your hair and apply conditioner before putting on the cap, it doubles as a deep conditioning treatment thanks to the heat generated while swimming.
Post-Swim Care
1. Rinse Immediately: After swimming, rinse your hair with clean water as soon as possible to remove chlorine residue.
2. Co-Wash: Instead of shampooing every time, which can be drying, I often co-wash (washing with conditioner) my hair. This helps cleanse the scalp while keeping the moisture intact.
3. Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning is a must. I enjoy creating my own hot oil treatments by warming a mix of oils and applying it from the tips to the scalp, then covering with a plastic cap for 10-15 minutes before rinsing.
Maintaining Healthy Curls
1. Clarifying Shampoos: Use a clarifying shampoo once in a while to remove any buildup of chlorine and other chemicals. Follow up with a rich conditioner to replenish moisture.
2. Hydration is Key: Keep your curls hydrated with leave-in conditioners and moisturizing sprays. I also like to use aloe vera gel for its soothing and hydrating properties.
Let’s Discuss!
I’m curious to hear about your experiences! Do you have any go-to tips for protecting your natural hair while swimming? Have you tried any DIY treatments that worked wonders? Let’s share our knowledge and keep our curls looking fabulous and healthy.
Wishing everyone happy and healthy swimming!
Warmly,
Chloe