Austin's Pool Water Hair: The Chlorine Catastrophe
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Texas sun beats down, the cicadas buzz, and the siren call of Barton Springs pulls you in. But that refreshing dip can leave your hair feeling like straw. Chlorine, the necessary evil keeping our beloved Austin pools clean, is a notorious hair wrecker.
This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about maintaining healthy hair in a city where swimming is practically a religion. Let’s dive deep into protecting your locks from chlorine’s harsh effects, specifically tailored for Austinites who frequent our iconic swimming holes.
Chlorine strips the natural oils from your hair. This leads to dryness, brittleness, and that dreaded green tint, especially for blondes.
Prevention is always better than cure. Think of it as sunscreen for your hair.
Before you even dip a toe in Deep Eddy, saturate your hair with clean, non-chlorinated water. This pre-soaking acts like a sponge, preventing your hair from absorbing as much chlorinated water.
Next, apply a protective barrier. Coconut oil is a readily available and effective option.
- It’s affordable.
- It’s easily found at any HEB or Central Market.
- It creates a physical barrier against chlorine.
Apply a generous amount of coconut oil, focusing on the ends, before putting on your swim cap. Swim caps are your best friend.
A good quality silicone cap provides the most protection. Avoid latex caps, as they tend to tear easily and don’t create as tight a seal.
Now, let’s talk about post-swim recovery. Rinsing your hair immediately after swimming is crucial.
Don’t just rely on the pool shower. As soon as you get home, give your hair a thorough rinse with clean water.
Follow up with a clarifying shampoo. These shampoos are designed to remove chlorine and mineral buildup.
Look for shampoos containing EDTA or sodium thiosulfate. These ingredients are effective at neutralizing chlorine.
Avoid shampoos with sulfates, as they can be overly drying. Many Austinites swear by the Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo, available at Sephora in the Domain.
Deep conditioning is essential after using a clarifying shampoo. Chlorine leaves hair parched, so replenishing moisture is key.
Look for deep conditioners containing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help to hydrate and repair damaged hair.
Leave the deep conditioner on for at least 15-20 minutes for maximum benefit. Consider using a shower cap to trap heat and enhance penetration.
DIY remedies can also be incredibly effective. An apple cider vinegar rinse can help to restore your hair’s pH balance.
Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water. Pour the mixture over your hair after shampooing, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.
Honey is another natural humectant that can help to draw moisture back into your hair. Mix honey with olive oil and apply it to your hair as a mask.
Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing. For blondes battling the green tint, a tomato juice rinse can work wonders.
The acidity in tomato juice helps to neutralize the copper that causes the discoloration. Apply tomato juice to your hair, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.
If DIY isn’t your thing, Austin boasts some fantastic salons specializing in chlorine-damaged hair. Milk + Honey Spa offers specialized treatments designed to remove chlorine buildup and restore moisture.
Aveda salons, like the one on South Congress, often offer botanical repair treatments that can help to strengthen and repair damaged hair.
One common mistake is neglecting to protect your hair before swimming. Many people only focus on post-swim care, but prevention is key.
Another pitfall is using harsh shampoos too frequently. Clarifying shampoos should only be used once or twice a week, as they can be drying if overused.
Over-processing your hair with heat styling tools can also exacerbate chlorine damage. Give your hair a break from blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons.
Embrace your natural texture and opt for air-drying whenever possible. If you must use heat, always use a heat protectant spray.
Consider your hair type when choosing products and treatments. Fine hair may benefit from lightweight conditioners, while thick hair may require richer, more emollient formulas.
Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, so it’s especially important to focus on hydration.
Don’t forget about your scalp. Chlorine can also irritate the scalp, leading to dryness and flakiness.
Massage your scalp regularly to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy hair growth. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp without stripping it of its natural oils.
Living in Austin means embracing the water. But with a little planning and the right products, you can enjoy our pools without sacrificing the health and beauty of your hair.
Remember, consistency is key. Make pre- and post-swim hair care a regular part of your routine, and your hair will thank you. So go ahead, take that plunge into Barton Springs, knowing you’re armed with the knowledge to protect your precious locks.