How to Swim-Proof Your Hair

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If you spend any time swimming — whether at the beach or in a pool — it’s worth fine-tuning your hair care routine to counteract the harsh effects of salt water and chlorine. Plus, “hair, much like skin, is vulnerable to UV damage,” says the Los Angeles-based hairstylist Vernon François. “Sun exposure can compromise the integrity of the hair’s outer layer, causing dryness, frizz, breakage and color fading.” Here, tips for nourishing and protecting your strands, from François and two other experts: Kelia Moniz, a professional surfer who lives in Hawaii and owns the streetwear store Honolulu Pawnshop; and Jasmine Tookes, a model and co-founder of the body care brand Brunel who spends most summers on the Mediterranean coast.

Kelia Moniz, 32, surfer and store owner

Salt and sun can make hair really dry, and as a surfer, I can be in the ocean for hours, seven days a week. I mist on a leave-in conditioner before I go in. I like Ebb Ocean Club Detangling Tonic Spray because it’s reef-safe; I’m mindful that whatever I apply comes off in the water.

My favorite kind of hair is after I’ve been surfing, when I rinse out a little of the salt and run my fingers through it. The hair’s full of texture — salt is like a natural volumizing mousse. To enhance my curls, I often use Kérastase’s Curl Manifesto daily moisturizing frizz-reducing treatment, a light leave-in conditioner that also helps with frizz.

Caring for your scalp helps with overall hair health, so I do a scalp ritual every couple of weeks. I apply Act + Acre’s Scalp Detox oil to dry skin, let it sit for five minutes, then wash off with Davines’ Oi Shampoo. After that, I exfoliate with Anablue’s Scalp Cleanser, which contains thick, hydrating argan oil and Himalayan sea salt minerals. I follow with another quick shampoo and then the Oi Conditioner, which smells incredible.

My hair gets dry and coarse, so I usually get it trimmed every two months. My hairdresser uses Olaplex’s No. 3 Hair Perfector to put strength and life back into it.

Jasmine Tookes, 34, model and beauty brand founder

My hair can get frizzy after I’ve been in the pool, so I love applying a deep conditioning mask, like Unite’s 7Seconds Masque, beforehand. I don’t use a lot, maybe a nickel-size amount. I dampen my hair in the shower, put the formula in and then wrap my hair into a bun and secure it with a scrunchie. That slicked-back bun is my favorite holiday style because it’s low maintenance and a great way to show off beautiful, sun-kissed skin.

In the summer, I always have Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Oil in my pool bag. It makes my hair really silky, and it smells great. When I get out of the pool, I’ll apply a couple of pipettes, then brush the oil through with a small Mason Pearson.

For my post-sun routine, I love Living Proof’s No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner; they don’t weigh down my very fine, soft hair. I’ll also reapply the Unite hair mask. I wouldn’t be opposed to using Brunel’s Renewal Body Oil in my hair as well.

Twice a year, after a vacation when I’ve been in the pool a lot, I book a keratin treatment, which makes my hair much stronger, reduces frizz and cuts blow dry time in half, which is great for when I’m on set.

Vernon François, 39, hairstylist

For me, sun protection for hair is just as essential as SPF for the skin. Before heading outdoors on a holiday, I layer lightweight, hydrating serums and leave-in conditioners that contain UV filters, like Olaplex’s No. 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum. I also never travel without a silk scarf or hat for added coverage.

Afro-textured or curly hair is more vulnerable to breakage in hot, dry climates. Braids, cornrows, twists and buns can help minimize friction and sun exposure, which in turn supports moisture retention. Make sure your chosen style still gives you access to your scalp, so you can keep it clean and healthy.

After swimming, restoration should be your top priority. Start by thoroughly rinsing the hair to remove any salt or chlorine, then cleanse gently with a sulfate-free shampoo — I love Olaplex’s No. 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo. Follow with a deep conditioner, such as the same brand’s No. 8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask, to improve elasticity, and detangle using the Olivia Garden CurlyHair Brush, starting at the ends. Then seal it all in; I like Olaplex’s No. 7 Bonding Oil, which is a plant-based blend that conditions and smooths.