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Is Using Hair Towel After Swimming Good? Find out about post-swim hair care in the article below.
As summer approaches, many people are getting ready to hit the pool or the beach. And, of course, that means exposing our tresses to chlorinated and saltwater. But what are the effects of this exposure, and is using a hair towel after swimming really good for our hair?
We all know that saltwater and chlorine can wreak havoc on our hair, leaving it feeling dry and brittle. And while some may argue that washing it immediately after swimming is the best way to protect it, others swear by using a hair towel. So, what’s the verdict? Let’s dive in and explore the benefits (or potential downsides) of using a hair towel after a dip in the pool or ocean.
Is Using Hair Towel After Swimming Good
Using a hair towel after swimming is not just good, it is a necessity. Neglecting to dry your hair after swimming in chlorinated or saltwater pools can lead to severe hair damage, including hair breakage, split ends, and dry scalp.
The hair fibers are more vulnerable when they are wet, and swimming can damage the hair cuticles, making your hair more prone to breakage.
The chlorine in pools can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and lifeless. Similarly, saltwater can leave behind salt deposits on your scalp, making it dry and itchy.
I caught Crystal sporting her Norwex hair wrap after she got out of the jacuzzi. NO more soaked dripping hair nor a heavy wet towel after swimming! 🥳❤️💦 #norwex #healthyliving #norwexhairwrap #baclocktechnology #healthyhair pic.twitter.com/SyOU9uh6Vz
— Catherine “Cathy” Luna (@norwexwithcat) May 19, 2020
Using a hair towel is an excellent way to get rid of the excess water and prevent hair damage. Hair towels are made from a soft and absorbent material that can wick away moisture from your hair strands while minimizing frizz and tangles.
Plus, it can speed up the hair drying process, reducing the chances of developing a fungal infection.
Therefore, if you want to keep your hair healthy and bouncy, do not hesitate to use a hair towel after swimming. Your hair will thank you for it!
Will Towel Drying Hair After Swimming Lead To Damage
As tempting as it may be to towel dry your hair after a refreshing swim, it may actually be causing more harm than good. Using a hair towel to dry your hair roughly can lead to damage such as split ends, breakage, and unwanted frizz.
Not only does the rough motion of the towel cause damage, but the fibers of the towel can also strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and dull.
Furthermore, hair is at its most vulnerable state when it is wet. This is because water weakens the disulfide bonds within the hair, making it more susceptible to damage.
Drying your hair with a towel can further stress these weakened bonds and lead to even more breakage.
Instead of using a towel, consider gently squeezing excess water out of your hair and allowing it to air dry or using a soft microfiber towel specifically designed for hair. This will help prevent damage and keep your locks healthy and shiny.
Remember, taking care of your hair should always be a top priority, and a few extra minutes of air drying can go a long way in maintaining its health.
How To Protect Your Hair From Chlorine Without A Swim Cap
Swimming is a refreshing and healthy activity, but chlorine can be the enemy of your hair, causing dryness and damage. If you don’t want to wear a swim cap, there are different ways to protect your hair from the harsh effects of chlorine.
Firstly, wet your hair with tap water before jumping into the pool. This technique helps to limit the amount of chlorinated water that your hair can absorb.
Remember to use cold water, as hot water can open hair cuticles and make it more vulnerable to damage.
Another option is to coat your hair with a leave-in conditioner or natural oil such as coconut or olive oil.
This protective layer helps to prevent the chlorine from penetrating the hair shaft, keeping your locks moisturized and healthy.
After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water and apply a deep conditioner to rehydrate it. Avoid using hot tools like blow dryers, as they can cause further damage to your hair.
By following these simple tips, you can still enjoy swimming without worrying about the damage to your hair caused by chlorine.
Should I Shampoo Hair Immediately After Swimming
If you swim in chlorinated water, shampooing right away is ideal to remove any chemical residues that can damage your hair. Chlorine can strip away natural oils, leaving your hair dry and brittle.
On the other hand, if you swim in saltwater, waiting a few hours before shampooing is recommended. Saltwater can also strip away natural oils, and immediate washing can further dry out your hair.
If you swim frequently, shampooing immediately can harm your hair by stripping it of healthy oils. Instead, rinse your hair with freshwater after swimming, and use a leave-in conditioner to protect it before shampooing later.
If you have curly or dry hair, refrain from shampooing immediately after swimming. Instead, use a hydrating mask or a deep condition treatment to retain moisture and prevent breakage.
Is Hot Towel Treatment Good For Hair After Swimming
After a long, refreshing swim, the first thought that pops into your head is probably wrapping up your wet locks with a hot hair towel. But is this really beneficial for your hair?
For starters, hot towels can strip your hair of its natural oils and leave it looking and feeling dull.
They can also cause damage to the hair cuticle, leading to breakage, split ends, and frizz. Instead, opt for a gentle, cool towel pat-down to remove excess water from your hair.
On the other hand, using a hair towel after swimming can prevent chlorine and other chemicals from damaging your hair.
These towels are typically made of microfiber material which absorbs moisture and dries hair faster than a regular towel, preventing it from becoming too saturated and causing damage.
But be sure to wash your hair towel frequently to prevent any bacteria or buildup from accumulating. And, if possible, avoid using heat styling tools on your hair after towel drying to prevent further damage.
In summary, using a hair towel after swimming can be beneficial if done correctly. Just remember to be gentle and opt for cool towels over hot ones to keep your hair healthy and happy.
In conclusion, using a hair towel after swimming can lead to a plethora of benefits that not only promote healthy hair but also aid in your overall hygiene.
It provides a quick and easy way to remove excess water and prevent bacterial growth on your scalp, saving you time and effort while keeping you clean and fresh.
Plus, it prevents damage caused by rubbing your hair with a regular towel, minimizing hair breakage and split ends.
All in all, investing in a good quality hair towel is an excellent decision that you won’t regret.
So, the next time you head to the pool or the beach, don’t forget to pack your hair towel and get ready to flaunt your healthy locks!
Why You Should Trust Haireveryday?
The author of this article, Leah Marie Priest has a degree in Cosmetology with years of experience in dealing with hair care, scalp care, and hairstyling. As someone who extensively deals with all kinds of hair textures, products, styling methods and more, hair Leah Marie knows what kind of products and procedures suit each hair type and person. We have also tested these hair products and processes ourselves to provide you an unbiased review about every product. Each of our articles are also reviewed by a team of medical professionals so that you get the most accurate and expert-reviewed information.
Also Read:
Is Lake Water Bad For Your Hair
How To Protect Color Treated Hair While Swimming
Can I Swim With Clip in Hair Extensions
Can You Go Swimming After Dyeing Your Hair Red
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