Should you wash your hair every day after the beach or pool? The answer will surprise you
With summer in full swing, bathing at the beach or pool is the order of the day. But these moments of relaxation can also mean stress for our hair. Between the salt of the sea and the chlorine of swimming pools, how can we protect our hair and do we really need to wash it every day to avoid damage? In this article, discover the best ways to care for your hair during the summer season.
The effects of seawater on hair
Alkaline pH upsets capillary balance
Seawater has an alkaline pH of around 8, while a healthy scalp has an acidic pH of around 5.5. This pH difference can upset the scalp's natural balance, causing irritation, dryness and increased sensitivity. The acid mantle, this natural protective barrier, is weakened, which can increase the risk of scalp diseases such as dermatitis.
Hair fiber degradation
In addition to altering the pH, salt water degrades the hair fiber by opening cuticle scales, which can no longer play their protective role. The result: hair becomes brittle and rough.
Sun protection for hair
To minimize these effects, it's crucial to protect your hair before exposing it to the sun and salt water. Using a suntan oil is an excellent solution. It forms a protective barrier against UV rays and salt, keeping your hair soft and silky. Jojoba and castor oils are particularly recommended for their nourishing and conditioning effect.
The effects of chlorinated water on hair
Color degradation and drying out
Chlorine from the pool is another enemy of your hair. Like seawater, it damages the hair fiber and dries out the scalp. In addition to making hair brittle and rough, chlorine can alter its natural color. Dark hair can lighten, while blond hair can develop green highlights.
Weakening of the scalp
Frequent exposure to chlorine weakens the stratum corneum of the scalp, causing irritation, dryness and discomfort. drought and a dehydration. So it's crucial to take steps to protect your hair if you regularly visit swimming pools.
Should I wash my hair every day?
Washing required in case of contact with water
If your hair comes into contact with seawater or chlorinated water, it's essential to wash it daily to remove salt and chlorine, thus preserving your hair's health. However, if your hair is kept dry by a bathing cap or high-low style, daily washing is not necessary. On the other hand, a thorough rinse with clear water is strongly recommended after every swim.
The risks of over-washing
Washing hair every day can also have negative effects. It can strip the scalp of its natural oils, making hair drier and more fragile. It's therefore important to use gentle, moisturizing shampoos to minimize these effects.
Hair routine to adopt after a swim
Rinse with clear water
After every swim, it's essential to rinse your hair with clear water to remove salt, chlorine and sand. This helps prevent irritation and long-term damage.
Use of moisturizing products
To restore the skin barrier and cohesion of the hair cuticle, use moisturizing shampoos and nourishing hair masks. Opt for products containing natural ingredients such as aloe vera, mango butter and avocado oil. These ingredients help rebalance lipid levels and deeply moisturize scalp and hair.
Application of moisturizing masks
Apply a moisturizing mask regularly to revitalize your hair after a swim. Coconut or shea oils can also be used to nourish and detangle hair, especially long hair. These masks help restore moisture and protect the hair fiber from future damage.
Tips for choosing the right summer shampoo
Selection criteria
- UV protection Choose a shampoo with UV filters to protect your hair from the sun.
- Intense hydration Moisturizing shampoo to compensate for dehydration caused by exposure to salt and chlorine.
- Anti-frizz For smooth, disciplined hair despite humidity.
- Deep cleaning A clarifying shampoo to remove residues of hair care products and chlorine.
- Lightweight formula To keep hair soft and supple.
- Color protection If you have color-treated hair, opt for a shampoo specially formulated to protect your color.
- Natural ingredients Prefer shampoos with aloe vera, chamomile or coconut oil for their nourishing properties.
- Adapting to your hair type : Take your specific needs into account when choosing the right shampoo for your hair type.
Plant oils for hair repair
Choice of oils
- Castor oil Effective for dry, damaged hair, this oil helps strengthen and moisturize. It can be mixed with another vegetable oil for easier application.
- Coconut oil Highly appreciated for its nourishing properties, it solidifies at low temperatures and must be heated before application.
- Argan oil Apply to lengths and ends to restore strength and shine to dry hair.
Other hair protection tips
Protecting your hair from the sun and chlorine
The sun and chlorine are aggressors that can cause considerable damage to hair in summer. It's essential to cover your hair with a hat, cap or scarf to protect it from UV rays. Also use hair products designed to protect against the sun and chlorine, such as hair sunscreen and protective conditioner.
Avoid blow-drying
Drying your hair too often with a hair dryer can dry it out even more. Prefer natural drying or use a moderate blow-dry temperature to avoid damaging hair fibers.
Rinsing after every swim
A crucial tip for keeping your hair healthy is to rinse it thoroughly after every swim. This eliminates salt and chlorine residues, preventing hair from drying out and becoming brittle.
By caring for your hair with the right products and adopting effective protection habits, you can make the most of summer without sacrificing the health and beauty of your hair.
