Swim Shampoo: How to Remove Chlorine and Protect Your Hair

Quick Answer

To remove chlorine from your hair, use a clarifying swim shampoo immediately after swimming. Look for one with hydrating ingredients like lavender, rosemary, and jojoba oils to prevent dryness. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a conditioner if needed.

If you swim regularly, you know the struggle: chlorine leaves hair dry, brittle, and sometimes with a greenish tint. The good news is that a dedicated swim shampoo can effectively remove chlorine and protect your hair from damage.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the signs of chlorine damage, the best way to get chlorine out of your hair, and how to build a simple post-swim routine that keeps your locks healthy and shiny.

Signs That Chlorine Is Damaging Your Hair

Chlorine strips away the natural oils that keep your hair moisturized, leaving it feeling rough and looking dull. You might notice increased tangles, split ends, or a change in texture, especially if you swim frequently without proper care.

For those with color-treated hair, chlorine can also cause fading or a brassy tone. Recognizing these signs early helps you take action before the damage becomes severe.

• Dry or brittle strands after swimming
• Tangled or hard-to-manage hair
• Color fading or a greenish tint on blonde hair

How to Get Chlorine Out of Hair

The most effective way to remove chlorine is to rinse your hair with fresh water before and after swimming. This pre-soak reduces the amount of chlorine your hair absorbs. After swimming, wash your hair with a clarifying swim shampoo as soon as possible.

When choosing a swim shampoo, look for ingredients that both cleanse and hydrate. Our Swim Shampoo features lavender, rosemary, and jojoba oils, which help clarify while replenishing moisture. Massage it into your scalp and hair, leave it for a minute, then rinse thoroughly.

• Wet your hair with fresh water before entering the pool
• Use a swim shampoo immediately after swimming
• Follow with a conditioner or a leave-in treatment if needed

Building a Post-Swim Routine

Consistency is key when protecting your hair from chlorine. After each swim, follow a simple routine: rinse, shampoo, and condition. If your hair feels extra dry, consider a deep conditioning treatment once a week.

For swimmers with fine or thinning hair, a biotin-infused shampoo can help maintain volume while still addressing chlorine buildup. Our Forest Berry Biotin Shampoo combines botanicals to support thicker-looking hair, making it a great option for post-swim care.

• Keep a swim shampoo in your gym or pool bag
• Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle after washing
• Limit heat styling to reduce additional stress on hair

Diagnosis: Is Your Hair Suffering from Chlorine?

• Symptom: Dry, brittle, or tangled hair after swimming. This is a common sign of chlorine stripping natural oils.
• Likely Cause: Chlorine and other pool chemicals accumulate on the hair shaft, removing moisture and protein. Without proper cleansing, buildup continues to damage hair.
• Corrective Action: Use a clarifying swim shampoo like Swim Shampoo immediately after swimming, and follow with a conditioner. This helps remove chlorine and restore moisture.
• When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If you don't swim regularly or your hair is not exposed to chlorine, a standard shampoo may be sufficient. If you have severe damage, consider a deep conditioning treatment or consult a professional. If symptoms persist, reassess your hair care routine.

Product Facts

• Swim Shampoo: Clarify and cleanse your hair after a dip in the pool or ocean with our hydrating Swim Shampoo, featuring lavender, rosemary and jojoba oils. This shampoo is specifically formulated to remove chlorine and salt while hydrating, making it an ideal first step in your post-swim routine.
• Forest Berry Biotin Shampoo: Expertly care for thinning and fine hair with our Forest Berry Biotin Shampoo, featuring pure botanicals for thicker-looking locks. If chlorine leaves your fine hair flat, this biotin shampoo helps maintain volume while still cleansing the buildup.

Removing chlorine from your hair doesn't have to be a struggle. With the right swim shampoo and a consistent post-swim routine, you can keep your hair healthy and protected. Start by adding a clarifying swim shampoo to your bag and adjust your care based on your hair's needs.