Your hair likely feels sticky after swimming due to a buildup of chlorine and other chemicals present in pool water.
The Science Behind Sticky Swimmer's Hair
Chlorine, while effective at disinfecting pool water, has a dehydrating effect on hair. It strips away the natural oils that keep your hair soft and manageable. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
Chlorine Absorption: Hair, especially fine hair like that of children, readily absorbs chlorine. This isn't just a surface-level issue; the chlorine penetrates the hair shaft.
-
Buildup: Over time, repeated exposure leads to chlorine buildup. This buildup makes the hair feel rough, tangled, brittle, and, yes, sticky.
-
Mineral Interaction: Pool water can also contain minerals like copper. Chlorine oxidizes these minerals, causing them to bind to hair proteins. This can lead to discoloration (like green hair) and further contribute to the sticky, unpleasant texture.
-
pH Imbalance: Chlorinated water can disrupt your hair's natural pH balance, making the cuticles (outer layer of the hair shaft) open and rough. This increased roughness contributes to the sticky feeling and increased tangling.
The "Barbie Doll Hair" Effect
As mentioned in the reference, chlorine buildup can give hair a shiny, plastic-like appearance, often referred to as "Barbie doll hair." This is because the hair is coated in residue and lacks natural moisture.
Solutions: Preventing and Treating Sticky Hair
Here's how to combat sticky swimmer's hair:
-
Wet Hair Before Swimming: Saturating your hair with clean water before entering the pool helps to minimize the amount of chlorinated water it absorbs.
-
Apply a Leave-in Conditioner or Hair Oil: Creating a barrier with a leave-in conditioner or hair oil offers further protection against chlorine absorption.
-
Wear a Swimming Cap: A swimming cap is the best physical barrier against chlorinated water.
-
Rinse Immediately After Swimming: Thoroughly rinse your hair with clean water as soon as you get out of the pool.
-
Use a Clarifying Shampoo: Use a clarifying shampoo once a week (or less, depending on how often you swim) to remove chlorine and mineral buildup. Be careful not to overuse clarifying shampoos, as they can be drying.
-
Deep Condition Regularly: Deep conditioning treatments help to replenish lost moisture and repair damage caused by chlorine.
-
Consider a Swimmer's Shampoo and Conditioner: These products are specifically formulated to remove chlorine and other pool chemicals.
-
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse (Diluted): An apple cider vinegar rinse (diluted with water) can help restore your hair's pH balance and remove residue. Be sure to rinse thoroughly afterwards.
By understanding why your hair becomes sticky and implementing these preventive and treatment measures, you can enjoy swimming without sacrificing the health and feel of your hair.
