Swimming & Natural Hair Care

After the tedious work of straightening and styling our natural hair, who in the earth wants to mess it up by taking a plunge in the pool?? After spending hours at a salon, paying a hefty dollar all just to cool off by taking a dip in the pool.

Today however, the natural hair movement has grown by leaps and bounds having many women like us shaking off their fear of water, sweat and even working out. Gone are the days of running out of the rain, avoiding the gyms and pool parties. YES! Our natural hair frees us up in many ways. While  there will be more upkeep and maintenance if you are a swimming regular, but with care and careful planning we can swim & work out worry-free.

Creating a hair routine, consisting of the the following should help:

• Prepare the hair:  Opt for a swim cap (if u so dare) or swim freely making sure to wet the hair with water only which reduces the amount of chlorine and/or salt our hair absorbs. Also, be sure to twist or braid your hair prior to help avoid tangling.  

• Shampoo/Cleansing: Rinse the hair completely. If swimming often, try co-washing with your favorite moisturizing conditioner vs shampoos; which tends to dry out the hair.

• Condition/Deep Condition: Condition after every wash and D/C twice a week.

•  Clarify: Whether it's your favorite clarifying shampoo, or natural remedy;  such as ACV or baking soda, these specialized cleansers remove buildup from your strands. 

• Protein: An absolute must if color treated. Apply a couple times per month for extra strengthening.  Use products like ApHogee Keratin 2-Minute Reconstructor, CHI Keratin Mist. My two favorites; ORS Hair Mayonnaise (see my prior review) or for an all natural remedy -plain Greek Yogurt mixed w/your favorite oil.  

Happy Swimming!!!!