Keeping Your Hair Healthy Amid Chlorine, Salt Water, and Sun
Summer is the season of sun-soaked days, poolside lounging, and spontaneous trips to the beach, and summer hair care is sometimes overlooked. While many of us are diligent about safeguarding our skin from the sun, our hair often doesn’t receive the same level of attention. The combination of chlorine, salt water, and intense UV exposure can leave your locks feeling dry, brittle, and lifeless. But don’t let the promise of summer adventures be overshadowed by hair woes! With the right care and some expert advice, you can flaunt healthy, vibrant hair all season long.
Why Summer is Tough on Your Hair
Before diving in, let’s figure out why summer can be particularly harsh on hair. There are three primary culprits, with chlorine topping the list. Found in swimming pools, chlorine strips away natural oils from your hair, causing dryness, frizz, and—even worse—color fading for those with dyed locks. Salt water is a close second. A dip in the ocean may be invigorating, but salt water draws moisture from hair, amplifying dryness and making strands more prone to breakage. And just as with your skin, sun exposure can cause major issues to the health of your hair. Prolonged UV exposure weakens hair structure, bleaches out color, and can leave your mane looking dull and rough.
Pre-Swim: How to Prep Your Hair for Chlorine and Salt Water
The best defense is a good offense! Here’s how to protect your hair before hitting the pool or ocean: 
Wet Your Hair First: Think of your hair like a sponge; it can only absorb so much liquid. Rinsing your hair with clean, fresh water before swimming means it’ll soak up less chlorinated or salty water. Head straight to the shower before diving in—this simple step can make a world of difference.
Apply a Leave-In Conditioner or Oil: Coating your hair with a leave-in conditioner or a nourishing oil (like coconut or argan) creates a barrier that helps repel chlorine and salt. Focus on the ends, which are most prone to drying out. For extra protection, look for conditioners with UV filters.
Braid or Bun It Up: Loose hair is more exposed to damaging elements. Braiding or tying your hair into a bun or ponytail minimizes direct contact with water and reduces tangling.
Sun Protection for Hair: Shielding Your Strands
Just like your skin, your hair benefits from sun protection. Here are a few good ways to defend your tresses from UV damage.
Use Hair Sunscreen: Yes, it exists! Hair sunscreens are specially formulated sprays or creams that shield strands from harmful rays. Mist your hair before going outdoors, especially if you have color-treated or fine hair.
Rock a Hat or Scarf: A wide-brimmed hat or lightweight scarf not only adds style to your summer wardrobe but also provides physical protection. Choose tightly woven fabrics for maximum coverage. 
Seek Shade When Possible: Give your hair an occasional “health break” by sitting under an umbrella or elsewhere in the shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
After Sun, Chlorine, and Salt: Restoring and Repairing Your Hair
Even with the best precautions, summer adventures can take a toll. That’s why post-exposure care matters just as much as prevention.
Rinse Immediately: As soon as you can, rinse your hair with fresh, clean water after swimming. This helps wash away lingering chlorine or salt before it dries out your hair.
Clarify and Cleanse: Use a gentle, sulfate-free clarifying shampoo once a week to remove build-up from pool chemicals, salt, and styling products. Over-shampooing can strip natural oils, so stick to 1-2 times per week and use a moisturizing conditioner every wash.
Deep Condition Weekly: Treat your hair to a nourishing mask or deep conditioner once a week. Look for formulas rich in natural hydrating ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, or keratin. Apply generously from mid-length to ends, leave on for 10-20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly for silky, revived hair.
Detangle with Care: Salt and chlorine can leave hair extra-tangled. Use a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up to prevent breakage, especially when your hair is still wet. Spritz on a detangling spray for extra support.
Your Summer Hair Care Routine at a Glance
- Rinse hair before and after swimming
- Apply leave-in conditioner or oil before sun and water exposure
- Wear protective styles and accessories
- Apply hair sunscreen or wear a hat or scarf
- Clarify and deep condition weekly
Trust Your Salon for Summer Hair Health
We are passionate about helping you embrace summer with confidence and beautiful hair. Book a seasonal treatment, consult with our stylists about the best protective products, or ask about custom treatments tailored to your hair’s needs. With a little prep and some post-sun TLC, your hair will stay soft, shiny, and strong—no matter how many pools you dive into or beach days you enjoy.
Let this summer be about sun, sea, and the most sensational hair!
Enjoy Your Hair!!
Mickey