Maintaining Wavy Hair in Chlorinated Water

Chlorine is a chemical disinfectant designed to strip organic matter, which unfortunately includes the natural oils essential for maintaining the integrity of wavy hair. When hair fibers are dry, they act like a sponge, absorbing chlorinated water instantly and losing their elasticity. This process leads to brittle, frizzy waves that struggle to hold their shape.

The strategy for prevention relies on the principle of saturation. By filling the hair shaft with clean, neutral water before you enter the pool, you limit the amount of chemical-laden water the hair can take in.

1. Saturate with fresh water. Thoroughly rinse your hair under a shower head until every strand is saturated. The hair should feel heavy and completely waterlogged. This prevents the hair from absorbing pool chemicals upon entry.
2. Apply a protective barrier. Distribute a light, water-soluble conditioning oil or a leave-in conditioner through the mid-lengths and ends. Focus specifically on the porous ends of the waves. Do not rinse this out.
3. Secure the hair. If your hair is long enough, pull it into a loose braid or a high bun. This minimizes the surface area exposed to the water and prevents tangling while you swim.
4. Immediate post-swim rinse. Exit the pool and immediately rinse your hair with fresh, clean water for at least three minutes. This mechanical action flushes out the chemicals before they have time to dry into the hair shaft.
5. Follow with gentle cleansing. Use a mild, sulfate-free cleanser to remove any remaining mineral residue. Follow with a deep conditioner to restore the moisture balance lost during the swim session.

A saturated hair shaft will not absorb pool water.