Chlorine, used to disinfect swimming pool water, affects the integrity of the hair. The first part to be damaged is the cuticle, that is the external layer of the hair, made up of thin and transparent cells (without pigments) that have the purpose of protecting the cortex. In essence, chlorine reduces the hydro-lipid film of the hair, depriving it of its natural protection against external aggressions, making them appear dull and brittle, dry and more fragile. In addition to drying up the hair, chlorine also acts as a bleach, slightly distorting the color of the hair (in particular, the blond tends to become greenish and the chestnut may turn to reddish).
Some advices
To protect the hair, it is essential to wear the cap and when leaving the pool, rinse with warm water to eliminate most of the chlorine. At the end of the day, use a shampoo that is not foamy, but delicate and non-aggressive and apply a nourishing and regenerating balm, insisting on the ends. As a prevention, to counteract the desiccant effect of chlorine, it is possible to use protective oils (for example, based on flaxseed, argan and almond). Moreover, it is advisable to limit the use of the hair dryer and eliminate the use of the plate, trying to dry the hair in the air, after having eliminated the excess of water with a towel.
