The pool is calling, but your hair is screaming. The dreaded green tinge, the dry, brittle texture – chlorine’s unwelcome effects are a familiar struggle for swimmers. But fear not, fellow water lovers! We’re diving deep into the world of hair care to answer the burning question: what shampoo gets chlorine out of hair?
The Science Behind Chlorine’s Hair Havoc
Chlorine, the chemical that keeps our pools sparkling clean, is a notorious hair wrecker. Here’s how it works its magic (or rather, its mischief):
- Strips Natural Oils: Chlorine’s harshness strips away the natural oils that keep your hair healthy and hydrated. This leaves your hair feeling dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
- Reacts with Hair Protein: Chlorine reacts with the proteins in your hair, altering its structure and causing that telltale green tint. The more time you spend in chlorinated water, the more pronounced the effects become.
- Dulls Shine: Chlorine can dull the natural shine of your hair, leaving it looking lifeless and lackluster.
The Solution: Chlorine-Fighting Shampoos
Now that we understand the enemy, let’s equip ourselves with the right weapons:
Key Ingredients to Look For:
- Clarifying Shampoos: These shampoos contain powerful cleansers, typically sulfates, that effectively remove chlorine, product buildup, and other impurities from your hair. Think of them as a deep clean for your locks.
- Chelating Agents: These ingredients bind to chlorine molecules, preventing them from reacting with your hair and causing damage. Look for shampoos containing EDTA or citric acid.
- Moisturizing Ingredients: To combat the drying effects of chlorine, choose shampoos enriched with ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, or shea butter. These ingredients replenish moisture and restore the hair’s natural shine.
Top Picks: Shampoos That Deliver
Here are a few highly-rated shampoos that effectively remove chlorine and nourish your hair:
- Malibu C Swimmers Shampoo: This professional-grade shampoo is a favorite among swimmers. It contains Malibu C’s signature “Swimmers’ Wellness Complex” with chelating agents to remove chlorine and other harsh chemicals. It also boasts moisturizing ingredients to restore softness and shine.
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three: This clarifying shampoo is a classic for a reason. It effectively removes product buildup and impurities, including chlorine, while leaving hair feeling clean and refreshed.
- Kérastase Chroma Absolu Bain Lumière: This color-safe shampoo is formulated to neutralize chlorine and protect hair color. It features a blend of hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica extract to deeply hydrate and strengthen hair.
- Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo: This shampoo strengthens hair bonds and protects against damage, including chlorine exposure. It features a unique pH-balancing formula that helps restore hair’s natural pH level, leaving it smooth and manageable.
Beyond Shampoo: A Comprehensive Approach
While a good chlorine-fighting shampoo is essential, a holistic approach is key to maintaining healthy hair after swimming. Here are some additional tips:
- Rinse Immediately: As soon as you exit the pool, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water to remove as much chlorine as possible.
- Condition Deeply: Follow up your shampoo with a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and repair damage. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.
- Use a Hair Mask: Treat your hair to a weekly hair mask to provide extra hydration and nourishment. Look for masks containing ingredients like argan oil, avocado oil, or honey.
- Limit Heat Styling: Heat styling can further damage chlorine-exposed hair. Try to air-dry your hair whenever possible, and use a heat protectant spray when using heat styling tools.
- Hydrate from Within: Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp hydrated from the inside out.
Preventing Chlorine Damage: Proactive Measures
The best way to combat chlorine damage is to prevent it in the first place. Here are some proactive steps you can take:
- Wet Your Hair: Before entering the pool, wet your hair thoroughly with clean water. This helps to minimize the amount of chlorine that can penetrate your hair strands.
- Wear a Swim Cap: A swim cap is a great way to protect your hair from chlorine and other pool chemicals. Choose a cap that fits snugly and is made of a material that won’t damage your hair.
- Use a Leave-In Conditioner: Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair before swimming to create a barrier against chlorine.
- Rinse After Swimming: Rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water after every swim to remove any lingering chlorine and chemicals.
Swimming Without a Worry: Enjoy Your Plunge
With the right shampoo, a comprehensive hair care routine, and a few proactive measures, you can enjoy your time in the pool without worrying about chlorine damage. Now go forth, dive in, and embrace the refreshing waters, knowing your hair is protected!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if my hair is already green from chlorine?
If your hair has already turned green, don’t panic! You can use a clarifying shampoo to remove the green tint. You can also try a color-safe hair dye to neutralize the green color.
2. Can I use a regular shampoo to remove chlorine?
While a regular shampoo can help remove some chlorine, it won’t be as effective as a clarifying shampoo or a shampoo specifically designed for swimmers. Clarifying shampoos contain stronger cleansers that are better at removing chlorine and other impurities.
3. How often should I use a chlorine-fighting shampoo?
If you swim frequently, you should use a chlorine-fighting shampoo after every swim. If you swim less often, you can use it once or twice a week.
4. Can I use a homemade remedy to remove chlorine from my hair?
While some homemade remedies, such as a mixture of baking soda and water, can help remove chlorine, it’s best to use a product specifically designed for this purpose. Homemade remedies can be harsh on your hair and may not be as effective.
5. What if my hair is damaged from chlorine?
If your hair is damaged from chlorine, it’s important to use a deep conditioner and hair mask to restore moisture and strength. You may also want to consider using a hair serum or oil to protect your hair from further damage.