Planning to Swim in Summer? Here’s How to Care for Your Hair

Summer is almost here and with it the scorching humidity. To stay fit and beat the heat, many of us take to swimming. If you don’t take care of your hair while you hit the pool, this fun activity can turn into the main cause of hair loss for you. Whether you’re headed to the beach or taking a dip in the neighbourhood swimming pool, are some great tips to help keep those locks lustrous and healthy while you stay cool.

1. Wet your hair before you swim

   Your hair is akin to a sponge; it absorbs all the moisture that it can. Stand under the shower for a few minutes before you head into the water. If you wet your hair with fresh water before a swim, it will reduce the amount of chlorine or salt your hair will absorb. Never shampoo your hair before a swim. This will strip your scalp off its natural oils and can become a cause of hair loss for you.

2. Don’t forget your swim cap

   Swim caps may not keep your hair entirely dry. They do however, prevent most of your hair from getting soaked. This minimizes the amount of chlorine, salt and even UV rays your scalp gets exposed to. Invest in a good quality swim cap from a reputed sports brand. You can improve the effectiveness of your swim cap by first covering your hair with a shower cap followed by the swim cap.

3. Rinse your hair soon as you’re done

   As soon as you’re out of the pool, hold your hair under fresh running water. This is especially important if you’re at the beach. The salt in the sea and heat of the sun can be an especially damaging combo. Fresh water helps rinse out the chlorine and dirt in your scalp. Chlorine that lingers on as your hair dries will lead to itchiness on your scalp. You don’t necessarily have to shampoo each time you go for a swim. If your do shampoo, condition well and finish off with a leave in serum.

4. Use oil to your advantage

   If you have a dry scalp, rub in some coconut oil before you slip on a shower cap. The oil will prevent the chlorine and salt in the water from catching on to your hair. Many avoid applying coconut oil due to the strong smell it brings along. These days, the market is flooded with flower scented coconut oils that smell great.However, if you have an oily scalp and / or acne, skip this step.

5. Use a wide toothed comb

   Brushing wet hair with a regular comb is asking for trouble. It’s not only painful but also causes unnecessary hair fall and breakage. Pack a wide toothed comb into your swim bag before you head out. Post your swim, apply some leave in conditioner to your rinsed hair and gently comb out the tangles.

6. Braid your hair

   Braiding your hair, before you tuck it into your swim cap, will make things so much easier once you’re done and ready to leave. With hardly any knots, your hair will rinse out easy and you’ll be able to comb it without much hassle. Moreover, a braid doesn’t put pressure on your scalp and is a much better option than tying a tight hair bun.

7. Use a clarifying shampoo

   If you plan to swim regularly or at least a couple of times in a week, switch to a clarifying shampoo.  A clarifying shampoo thoroughly removes the embedded chemicals, prevents bacterial growth on your scalp, restores the natural pH balance of your hair and leaves your locks looking voluminous.

   Paying attention to your hair before you take a dip will save you from many types of hair loss. If you do face severe hair loss inspite of following a regular hair care regime, it might be time to talk to the experts. Homeopathy has long held esteem in treating various hair and scalp disorders.Homeopathic medicines for hair loss focus on holistic healing and long term results. Contact your doctor today to get the best solution suited for your hair.