How Chlorine and Saltwater Affect Your Hair
Summer is a season of sun, beach outings, and poolside relaxation, which I thoroughly enjoy, especially when frequenting the beautiful beaches of Maine. However, as someone who loves spending time by the coast, I’m acutely aware of the toll that elements like chlorine and saltwater can take on our hair. As a hair loss surgeon, I often meet patients who are concerned about the potential effects of these elements on hair health and the onset of thinning or loss.
While chlorine and saltwater can damage hair and make it more susceptible to breakage, they do not directly cause hair loss. By taking preventive measures and treating any damage promptly, you can enjoy your summer activities without compromising your hair health. For those experiencing significant hair loss or thinning, it is essential to schedule a consultation to determine the underlying cause and explore appropriate treatment options.
First, let’s chat about chlorine. You might love the refreshing feel of a dip in the pool, but your hair? Not so much. Chlorine is a harsh chemical used to keep pools clean and safe, but it can be quite unforgiving to your hair. When you swim, chlorine strips away the natural oils that protect your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. This dryness can make your hair more prone to breakage, which might give the impression of hair loss even if you’re not losing hair at the root.
Now, let’s move on to saltwater. A beach day is synonymous with fun and relaxation, but saltwater has its own set of challenges for your hair. The salt in ocean water draws moisture out of your hair, similar to how it dehydrates your skin. This dehydration can leave your hair feeling rough and tangled. While saltwater doesn’t have the same harsh chemical effects as chlorine, the drying nature of salt can still lead to breakage and split ends, again contributing to the appearance of thinner hair.
So, what can you do to protect your hair while enjoying the water? Prevention and proper care are key. Before swimming, consider wetting your hair with fresh water. Hair can only absorb so much water, so pre-soaking it can reduce the amount of chlorinated or saltwater it takes in. Think of it as giving your hair a protective barrier.
Post-swim care is equally important. Rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water as soon as you can after swimming. This helps to wash out any lingering chlorine or salt. Using a gentle shampoo and a deep conditioner can replenish lost moisture and restore some of the protective oils stripped away by chlorine and saltwater.
While swimming in chlorinated pools and saltwater can contribute to hair dryness and damage, which in turn can exacerbate thinning hair, there are plenty of ways to protect and treat your hair to keep it looking its best. So go ahead, enjoy your time.
Dr. Matthew Lopresti
Chief Hair Transplant Surgeon