Why the Pool Is Not Your Hair's Friend (And What You Can Do About It)
Michigan summers—we all know and love them. Long days at the beach, afternoons by the pool, and endless sunshine are some of the best parts of the season. Unfortunately, our hair doesn't always share the same excitement.
Between chlorine, saltwater, sweat, and UV exposure, summer can take a serious toll on your hair. If you've noticed your color fading faster, your hair feeling dry, or even a slight green tint after swimming, here's why—and what you can do to protect your strands.
How Chlorine Damages Your Hair
Chlorine strips away your hair's natural oils, leaving it dry, rough, and more prone to breakage. It also acts as a strong oxidizer, which means it can accelerate color fading and leave blondes looking dull or brassy.
Ever wonder where that green tint comes from? Contrary to popular belief, it's not actually the chlorine itself. Chlorine reacts with copper and other trace metals found in pool water. Those minerals bind to the hair cuticle, creating the unwanted green hue often seen in lighter hair.
The pH Problem
Healthy human hair naturally sits at a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Most swimming pools, however, maintain a pH between 7.2 and 7.8.
When your hair is exposed to this more alkaline environment, the cuticle opens up. Think of it like a door:
Healthy hair: door open 20%
Chlorine-exposed hair: door open 80%
When the cuticle is open, moisture and color molecules escape while unwanted chemicals and minerals enter. This is why hair often feels dry, tangled, and faded after a summer full of swimming.
How to Protect Your Hair Before Swimming
Wet Your Hair First
Hair acts like a sponge. If you saturate it with fresh water before getting in the pool, it has less room to absorb chlorinated water.
Bonus points if you apply:
A leave-in conditioner
A lightweight hair oil
Put Your Hair Up
Whenever possible, wear your hair in a braid, bun, or clip to minimize exposure and prevent tangles.
What to Do After Swimming
We love a beachy wave as much as anyone, but don't let chlorine sit on your hair all day.
As soon as possible:
✔ Shampoo your hair thoroughly (or double shampoo).
✔ Use a clarifying shampoo occasionally to remove chlorine buildup.
✔ Follow with a hydrating conditioner or leave-in treatment to replenish lost moisture.
Your hair will thank you.
Don't Forget a Swimmer's Treatment
At the end of summer, talk to your stylist about adding a professional swimmer's treatment to your appointment. These treatments work by neutralizing oxidation and removing chlorine, minerals, and chemical buildup from the hair and scalp. They're especially helpful for:
Removing green discoloration caused by copper.
Brightening blonde hair.
Restoring shine and softness.
Preparing your hair for fall color appointments.
Looking for healthy summer hair in Grand Rapids?
At Blend Salon & Suites in downtown Grand Rapids, we specialize in creating beautiful, lived-in color and healthy hair while helping you protect your investment between appointments. Whether you need a refresh, a Malibu C treatment, or a customized home care routine, we'd love to help.
