Are you itching to dip in the pool after coloring your hair? Wondering when it’s safe to jump back in without damaging your fresh color? This article will provide you with all the answers you need.
Discover how soon you can swim after dyeing your hair, the potential consequences of swimming with dyed hair, and the best ways to protect and care for your colored locks while enjoying a swim.
Table Of Contents
Can You Go Swimming After Dyeing Your Hair
Can you go swimming after dyeing your hair? The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. While it may be tempting to jump right into the pool or dip in the ocean after coloring your hair, it’s essential to consider a few factors before making that decision.
When you dye your hair, the color molecules are deposited onto the hair shaft, and the hair cuticles are temporarily lifted to allow the dye to penetrate. This process makes the hair more porous and vulnerable, especially during the first 48 to 72 hours after coloring. This means that chlorine and salt water can strip away the color and cause it to fade or become discolored.
To protect your freshly dyed hair, it’s best to wait at least 48 hours before swimming. During this time, your hair cuticles will have had a chance to close fully, locking in the color and ensuring its longevity.
You can also safeguard your hair by using a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner and wearing a swim cap to minimize exposure to chlorine or saltwater.
How Soon Can You Swim After Coloring Your Hair
It would be best to wait until the color had fully set before dipping in the pool. After coloring your hair, giving the dye enough time to penetrate the hair shaft and adequately adhere to the strands is essential.
Rushing into the pool too soon can cause the color to fade or even wash out thoroughly, leaving you with a less vibrant result.
Swimming immediately after coloring your hair can also lead to other issues. Chlorine in most swimming pools can be harsh on freshly colored hair. It can strip the dye away and leave your strands dull and dry. Additionally, the chemicals in the pool can interact with the chemicals in the dye, causing unpredictable color results or damaging your hair.
To ensure the longevity and vibrancy of your newly colored hair, it’s best to wait at least 48 hours before swimming. During this time, you can protect your hair using a color-protecting shampoo and conditioner and wearing a swim cap if possible.
Taking these precautions and giving your hair the proper time to set allows you to enjoy your swim without compromising your newly colored locks.
What Happens If You Swim With Dyed Hair
If you go swimming with dyed hair, the chlorine can strip away the color, leaving your strands dull and dry. When you swim in a pool, the chlorine in the water can damage your hair, especially if it has been recently colored.
The chemicals in the chlorine can penetrate the hair shaft and break down the color molecules, causing the color to fade or even change completely.
Not only that, but the chlorine can also strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and brittle. This can lead to frizz, split ends, and overall damage to your hair.
To protect your dyed hair while swimming, it is recommended to wear a swim cap or apply a protective leave-in conditioner before getting in the water. Additionally, rinsing your hair with fresh water before and after swimming can help to minimize the amount of chlorine that comes into contact with your hair.
Is Chlorine Bad for Dyed Hair
To protect your dyed hair from damage, it’s essential to be aware of the potential adverse effects of chlorine. Chlorine is commonly found in swimming pools and can have a detrimental impact on your hair color. When you swim in a chlorinated pool, the chlorine molecules can cause your hair color to fade or even change entirely.
The chemical properties of chlorine make it a powerful disinfectant, but unfortunately, it can also be harsh on dyed hair. Chlorine can cause the hair cuticles to become dry and porous, leading to color fading. Additionally, chlorine can cause the hair to become brittle and prone to breakage, significantly if it is already damaged from the dyeing process.
To minimize the harmful effects of chlorine on your dyed hair, it is recommended to take some precautions. Before swimming, wet your hair with fresh water and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil.
This will create a barrier between your hair and the chlorine, reducing its ability to penetrate the shaft. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water to remove any traces of chlorine.
How to Protect Colored Hair When Swimming
Swimming pools are filled with chlorine, which can cause damage to your hair, especially if it’s been recently colored. To protect your colored hair when swimming, you can follow a few simple steps.
Step 1 – Wet hair with clean water
Do this before entering the pool. This will help your hair to absorb less chlorine. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a protective barrier.
Step 2 – Wear a swim cap
A swim cap can provide extra protection for your colored hair. It will help to minimize your hair’s exposure to the chlorine in the pool water. Make sure to choose a well-fitting cap that covers all of your hair.
After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water to remove residual chlorine. You can also use a clarifying shampoo specifically designed to remove chlorine buildup. Follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and nourish your colored hair.
How to Take Care of Dyed Hair After Swimming
Taking care of dyed hair after swimming is essential to maintain its color and health. When you swim after coloring your hair, the chemicals in the pool water can strip away the color and leave your hair looking dull and faded.
Step 1 – Wet the hair
This will help to minimize the amount of pool water that your hair absorbs. After swimming, rinse your hair with clean water again to remove any chlorine or other chemicals that may have gotten trapped in your hair.
Step 2 – Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner
They should be specifically formulated for colored hair. These products will help to nourish and protect your hair, keeping it healthy and vibrant. Avoid harsh shampoos or styling products containing alcohol, as these can further damage your colored hair.
Step 3 – Avoid excessive heat styling
In addition to using the right products, avoiding excessive heat styling and sun exposure is essential, as these can also cause your hair color to fade. If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.
Conclusion
So, now you know that you can go swimming after coloring your hair. But waiting at least 48 hours is essential to let the color fully set.
Swimming with dyed hair can cause the color to fade or change, especially if swimming in chlorinated water. To protect your colored hair, use a swim cap or apply a leave-in conditioner before swimming.
After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly and use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair vibrant and healthy.
Michele Meesh Antunes is the lady of the Beardoholic writers team and a genius when it comes to hair and beard styles that suit any face shape. She’s been a barber for years now and, no matter your personal style, she knows exactly what beard, hairstyle and length suit you. She brings the women’s perspective on beards, beard care, haircuts and hairstyles and male grooming.