This month it was beautiful to see that FINA, the governing body for swimming, approved a swimming cap for afro hair. Most of us will know that this is a definite step in the right direction for individuals with afro hair and the future of the sport. Unfortunately, as afro curls are drier than most hair types, the bleach found in swimming pools can dry them out more. But whether you are a regular at the pool or take an occasional dip, we can provide tips to develop a routine to keep your afro hair healthy.
Wet Your Afro Hair Before You Swim
Soak your afro curls in fresh water for at least 10 minutes before going into the pool or sea. Running your afro hair under fresh water will reduce the amount of salt or chlorine your hair absorbs, increasing the chances of breakage and dryness. In addition, once your natural hair absorbs the fresh water, it will leave a minimal opportunity for chlorine, bleach, or salt water to penetrate.
Protect Your Natural Curls With A Protective Style, An Oil, And A Swimming Cap
After wetting your afro hair with fresh water, apply a light oil or curling mousse on your strands to protect them while swimming. If you want to put your afro curls in a protective style like a flat twist, braids, or Bantu knots, you could prevent tangling and minimise chlorine or saltwater absorption. Opt for our Curling Mousse With Flaxseed Oil & Rosewater to help nourish your afro hair while .
Alternatively, you can put your hair into a bun after spraying a light infusion of moisture on your strands using our Everyday Curl Refresh With Coconut & Jamaican Black Castor Oils. Then opt for a swimming cap to cover thicker, oily hair, including extensions, braids, dreadlocks, and weaves.
Rinse Your Kinky Hair Post-Swim
Removing any chlorine or salt water that has built up in your hair while swimming is essential. So, the first step after you swim should be to rinse your natural hair. If you are not a regular swimmer, go for a sulphate-free shampoo with Manuka Honey which will focus on cleansing your scalp while helping you keep the moisture in your natural hair. If you swim regularly, consider using a co-wash or conditioner after each swim A cleansing conditioner like our Moisture Rich Conditioner With Manuka Honey & Avocado can restore and lock in moisture in your strands after rinsing them well after swimming. Finally, regardless of when and how often you swim, think about using a clarifying shampoo at least once a month. This specialised shampoo can remove build-up from chemicals like chlorine and saltwater residue.
Embrace And Seal Moisture In With A Leave-In Conditioner
A liquid leave-in conditioner like ours with manuka honey & avocado oil can keep your hair bouncy, smooth, shiny, hydrated, and free from split ends. Best of all, our Leave-In can be used between wash days to invigorate your curls with moisture. It can also make it easier to detangle your natural hair with a wide-tooth comb.
Continue Locking In Moisture With Your Styling Routine
After using our conditioner and leave-in post-swim, your hair should be hydrated and ready to be styled. If you fancy elongated curls, use our Curl Elongating Gel With Flaxseed Oil & Rosewater to stretch curls without weighing them down. On the other hand, if you want more defined curls waves or put your hair into another protective style, use our Curling Crème With Coconut & Jamaican Black Castor Oils to give your natural hair moisture while in style.
Swimming can havoc with your natural curls if you do not protect them before going in the pool or the sea. So, follow our before and after tips to ensure that your afro hair remains healthy and chemical-free.