With summer well underway, clients will be facing environmental factors specific to the season: think increased sun exposure, humidity, and of course, chlorine. From spotting the signs of chlorine damage to the precautions you can take to prevent it, here are all of the questions your clients will be asking this summer – and the answers you’ll want to give them.
What are the common signs of chlorine damage?
Chlorine can affect the hair in different ways and it’s worth remembering that not all hair within a particular type will react the same way. That being said, common signs of chlorine damage most often include brittleness and dryness. Those with colour-treated hair are also susceptible to discolouration, sometimes referred to as swimmers’ hair. “We see this a lot more with blondes and it causes the hair to have a dull green tinge, caused by the oxidized copper in chlorine which is absorbed by the hair,” explains Shannon Giblin, Manager at En Route Hair and Beauty.
Are certain hair types more susceptible to chlorine damage than others?
In addition to colour-treated hair, thin and fine hair are also at an increased risk of damage from chlorine. Meanwhile, hair that’s been excessively heated may be more porous, and also more vulnerable. However, just because a client doesn’t fall into one of these categories, doesn’t mean they shouldn’t take precautions when swimming. “It’s often when we’re on sunny holidays that we’re swimming in chlorinated pools, and the added factor of UV rays from sun may exacerbate the damaging effect, breaking down the keratin in the hair,” says Susie Hammond, Consultant Trichologist at Philip Kingsley.
What precautions can be taken to minimise chlorine damage to the hair?
Unfortunately hair damaged by chlorine can’t be repaired, which is why prevention is so important. “Before entering a chlorinated pool, wet hair thoroughly with clean water,” suggests Safy B, from Safy B Salon. “This helps to minimise the amount of chlorine the hair can absorb.”
Some experts will also suggest recommending your clients wear a swimming cap, however this might be a hard sell for some. A more realistic suggestion would be to apply a protective product before jumping in the pool; Lisa Carter, The Crowning Stylist, advises clients turn to conditioner, before tying hair in a high bun with a silk scrunchie, while Phillip Kingsley’s aptly-named Swimcap is another great option, as it can shield the hair from the drying and damaging effects of chlorine, as well as from salt water and UV rays.
Are there any specific ingredients or chemicals I should avoid in hair products if I'm dealing with chlorine damage?
With chlorine commonly causing strands to dry out, you’ll want to advise your clients to avoid any ingredients which could further exacerbate this – common culprits include sulphates, which can strip the hair of its natural oils, and alcohol, which can contribute to dryness. On the flip side, Lisa recommends clients look out for derivatives of coconut oil and Vitamin C, as these will provide moisture while helping to break down the chemicals left behind from chlorine.
However, the best ingredients for chlorine damaged hair can also depend on the hair type, and it’s not just those with fine or thin hair that need to watch out. “Coarse and textured hair types, such as curly or afro-textured hair, tend to be vulnerable to chlorine damage, too,” says Alex Thaddeus, from Alex Thaddeus Hairdressing. “The natural structure of these hair types makes them more prone to dryness and frizz, which can be magnified by chlorine exposure.” As such, she recommends clients use moisturising masks or treatments containing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or keratin.
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