Pool & lake hair: chlorine, salt, and how to prevent summer breakage

Chlorine and salt water can strip moisture and leave curls tangled. The goal is to reduce how much your hair absorbs—and restore moisture right after.

Before you swim

• Wet your hair with fresh water first (hair absorbs less pool/ocean water after).

• Apply a slippery leave-in conditioner.

• Protective style: braid, bun, or twists to reduce tangling.

After you swim

• Rinse ASAP.

• Use a gentle cleanser if you were in chlorine.

• Follow with a deep conditioner and detangle slowly.

If you swim often, we can build a simple ‘swim day’ routine that keeps curls healthy.