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Swim haircare: 5 tips and tricks to protect and revive post-swim hair

You just can't beat a good sunny day in the water! Whether you prefer the pool, the lake or the ocean, there is little more refreshing in the summer months than a swim. However, that time in the water can wreak havoc on your hair. From sea salt and chlorine to algae and other chemicals, your hair will need some relief.

Don't worry, this doesn't mean that you need to stay out of the water. Here are some tips and tricks to help your hair recover from your swim.

Rinse before you take a dip

The showers at pools are not only a chance to wash off any lotions and other products before getting in the water, but they're also an opportunity for you to soak your hair with clean water before introducing it to chemicals or salt water. Your hair can only hold a certain amount of water, so if the follicles are saturated with clean water, then there isn't as much room for it to soak up harmful water.

Use lots of leave-in conditioner

After you soak your hair, add some leave-in conditioner like Solutions by Great Clips® Quick-Dry Pre-Styler to protect your strands from both the water and the sun. This will create a moisture barrier and seal in the clean water now in your hair.

Consider covering up

If you'll be spending a lot of time with your head under water, a swim cap may be a good idea to keep the harsh chemicals and salt out of your hair. If you plan on keeping your hair dry or are taking a swim break, we recommend protecting it from the sun's strong UV rays by wearing a hat. This will help keep your hair strong, healthy and protected from environmental factors between swim sessions. 

Rinse again

Rinse your hair with cool water as soon as you get out of the water. If you'll be heading home, this could be a full shampoo and condition, but if you're at the pool, a quick rinse with clean, fresh water can help remove the salt and chlorine that may be sitting on your strands. Keep Malibu C Swimmers Treatment on hand to give hair an instant tuneup!

Stock up on moisturizer

Your hair is going to need some attention at home to recover from its time in the sun and the waves. Stock up on ultra-moisturizing conditioner, like Solutions by Great Clips Moisturizing Conditioner, to make sure that your hair is healthy and happy between beach trips. You may even want to use a conditioning mask or deep conditioning solution, like Solutions by Great Clips Deep Moisturizing Balm, once or twice a week if you expect to be spending a lot of time in the water.

You don't need to forego a dip in the pool or a swim in the ocean or a relaxing day in the sun. With these tips and tricks, you can be sure that you and your hair are getting the necessary nourishment for a summer in the sun! And be sure to stop by your local Great Clips salon for your fresh haircut so you're ready for all the fun summer can bring.

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