Whether you're a competitive swimmer, a casual lap-goer, or someone who lives for summer pool days, you've probably heard a lot of advice about how to care for your hair before and after a swim. But not all of it is true. In fact, many common beliefs about swimmers’ hair care can actually lead to more damage in the long run. Let’s set the record straight.
Myth 1: Chlorine turns your hair green
The truth: Chlorine often gets the blame for the dreaded green tint, but the real culprit is oxidized copper in pool water. These metals bind to the hair shaft, particularly in light or porous hair, and cause discoloration over time.
Malibu C cosmetic chemist, Rina, says, “When copper is present in pool water, often from algaecides, it can oxidize and bind to proteins in the hair shaft, especially when the hair is porous. This reaction forms a green-tinted film on the hair. Chelating agents are designed to break these bonds and remove the metals, which is why they effectively eliminate discoloration.”
What helps: A chelating in-salon service like Crystal Gel specifically targets mineral and metal buildup, helping to prevent and remove that greenish hue. It’s a must-have in any swimmer’s hair care routine.
Myth 2: You only need to wash your hair after swimming
The truth: While rinsing your hair post-swim is important, pre-swim care is just as essential. Dry hair is like a sponge; it readily absorbs whatever it comes into contact with. If your hair is dry when you dive in, it will soak up more chlorine and metals from the water.
What helps: Wet your hair with clean, fresh water or apply our Leave-In Conditioner Mist before swimming. This creates a barrier and minimizes damage from harsh pool chemicals.
Myth 3: Saltwater is great for your hair
The truth: Saltwater can give you beachy waves, but it’s not necessarily healthy for your hair. Salt can be extremely drying and stripping, especially when combined with UV exposure and repeated swims.
What helps: Treat your hair like you would your skin, cleanse, hydrate, and protect. Follow up your swim with a moisturizing treatment to replenish lost hydration and keep your hair soft and manageable.
Myth 4: Swim caps fully protect your hair from pool water damage
The truth: Swim caps can reduce exposure, but they’re not watertight. Pool water still seeps in, meaning your hair isn’t fully protected from chlorine or metals.
What helps: Think of a swim cap as a partial defense, great for reducing resistance and minimizing exposure, but not a substitute for a proper hair care routine. Create a barrier with a leave-in conditioner before swimming and follow up with a gentle yet effective post-swim cleanse, like our Swimmers Wellness Collection.
Myth 5: A clarifying shampoo is enough for a post-swim wash routine
The truth: Clarifying shampoos remove surface-level buildup, but swimmers need a little more. Pool water introduces metals, minerals, and chlorine deep into the hair. A basic clarifier may not be strong enough to break those bonds.
“As a stylist, I see so many swimmers using harsh clarifying shampoos and wondering why their hair still feels rough or looks dull. The truth is, clarifiers don’t always remove the heavy metals and chlorine that get deep into the hair. That’s why I always recommend a professional-grade Crystal Gel chelating service; it detoxes the hair at a deeper level and creates a clean slate for healthier results. To maintain this service, use the Swimmers Wellness Collection at home.” Brittany Cook, says Malibu C executive education manager, professional hairstylist, and barber.
What helps: Use a powerful clarifying remedy like our Swimmers Wellness Remedy, designed to help remove chlorine and mineral deposits. Follow it up with a replenishing conditioner to restore moisture and balance. We recommend our Miracle Repair Hair Reconstructor.
The Bottom Line:
Being a swimmer doesn’t mean your hair has to suffer. With the right prep, protection, and post-swim products, you can keep your hair healthy, shiny, and strong all season long.
