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In this post, we talk about How to protect colored hair from chlorine. Fortunately, there are several things we can do to protect our colored hair before and after swimming that are simple and effective.
Chlorine, bromine, and sea salts are used to clean swimming pools all over the globe because these chemicals are effective at sanitizing the water. However, with repeated exposure to chlorine, our hair becomes dry, harsh, and damaged, leaving it more prone to breaking.

Apply a conditioner before swimming
A swimmers conditioner is often used after swimming; however, by using it before entering the pool, it will form a protective around your hair, reducing chlorine exposure and preventing chlorine from attaching to your hair, causing damage.

Wash your hair before you get in the pool
Washing your hair with fresh water before swimming has two purposes:
- It removes sweating and other pollutants from your body and helps to keep the pool clean by removing bacteria and organic waste from your hair.
- Using excessive water to supersaturate your hair will help to reduce the intake of chlorinated water.

Swim cap
The primary function of a swim cap is to decrease exposure to chlorinated water, so in a way, by wearing it, you’ll be adding an additional protective layer to the already existing protective layer that protects your hair. Aside from that, when you mix a swim cap with the soaked hair, it will result in a tighter seal around your whole head.
There are many different types of swimming caps to pick from:
- Silicone (Swimmers who compete and others with long hair).
- Latex (This is a great option for regular swimmers who want variety).
- Rubber (Excellent for swimmers who like swimming in cold water).
- Lycra or spandex (Excellent for recreational swimmers looking for a comfy swim cap).
- Neoprene (Swimmers who like to swim in open water).

Hair oiling
We’re talking about coconut oil, which is everyone’s favorite multipurpose product. For Glamour, celebrity colorist Lorri Goddard recommends covering your hair with coconut oil or olive oil before going into the pool.
This product creates a slick barrier between the strands and potentially harmful chlorine. The Huile de Leonor Greyl Shampoo Treatment by Leonor Greyl is a more luxurious option that preserves hair with plant oils and has a fresh jasmine scent.

Shampoo after swimming
Swimmers shampoo should be used after swimming to eliminate and neutralize any chlorine that may have accumulated in your hair. Swimming pool shampoo should also be hydrating and moisturizing for the hair. The treatment will help to cure itchy scalps and will also help to remove the unpleasant chlorine smell from your hair.

Apply hair conditioner
Use a clarifying conditioner to aid with hair that has already been damaged and may have begun to turn green as a result of exposure to the pool water. Over time, you’ll see that your hair has returned to its natural color.