How to Combat Hair Damage from Chlorine & Summer Heat

UAE Moments

16-07-2025

It's hot. You're living in the pool. The sun's out. And your hair? Probably screaming for help. Whether you're diving into Gulf Coast waters or lounging poolside in 45°C heat, your strands are under attack—by chlorine, UV rays, and dry air. The result? Faded color, brittle ends, extra frizz, and that dreaded haystack feeling.
But don't panic—summer hair damage isn't permanent, and it's 100% preventable (and fixable) with the right routine. Let's break it down strand by strand.
1. Start With a Pre-Swim Shield
Think of it as SPF for your hair. Before diving into the pool, soak your hair with clean water. This prevents your strands from absorbing as much chlorine. Bonus points if you add a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a physical barrier—coconut, argan, and jojoba oil are summer MVPs.
2. Swim Caps Are Cool Now (Promise)
We know, we know. Swim caps had a reputation. But with new sleek styles and chic prints, you can protect your hair and look like a retro goddess doing it. Ideal for daily swimmers or anyone with colored or chemically treated hair.
3. Wash Right After You Swim
As soon as you're done doing laps (or floating with your iced matcha), rinse your hair immediately with clean water. Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove chlorine build-up, but don't overdo it—it can be drying. Follow up with a deep conditioning mask to hydrate and repair.
4. Sunscreen... But for Hair
Yes, it's a thing. Hair sunscreen sprays are designed to protect your strands and scalp from UV damage. Look for ingredients like UV filters, vitamin E, and natural oils. Spray before heading out and toss it in your bag for reapplication at the beach or park.
5. Embrace Protective Hairstyles
Minimize breakage and moisture loss by rocking braids, buns, or loose ponytails. Avoid tight elastics, especially when your hair is wet, and opt for scrunchies or spiral ties. Chic and damage-free? Yes, please.
6. Nourish From the Inside Out
Hydrated hair starts with a hydrated body. Drink plenty of water, and up your intake of hair-loving nutrients like biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D—especially during sunny season when your body is sweating out the good stuff.
7. Turn Down the Heat (Literally)
Your hair's already under attack from the sun, so go easy on the hot tools. If you must blow-dry or style, use a heat protectant spray and try a cooler setting. Let your natural texture live its best life—beachy waves are in anyway.
8. DIY Hair Masks for That Post-Pool Glow-Up
Whip up a homemade hair mask using ingredients from your kitchen:
Honey + olive oil for moisture
Avocado + coconut oil for repair
Yogurt + aloe vera for scalp soothing (Leave it on for 20–30 minutes once a week for soft, shiny, happy hair.)
9. Trim the Damage
Let's face it—split ends won't fix themselves. Schedule regular trims (every 6–8 weeks) during summer to prevent breakage from climbing up your strands. If you're growing your hair, think of it as pruning your plant. Necessary and worth it.
10. Invest in Summer-Proof Products
Look for sulfate-free shampoos, hydrating conditioners, and serums with antioxidants and UV protection. If you're in the Gulf region, local salons and online shops often carry brands made for high-heat environments—Davines, Ouai, Aveda, and Kérastase Soleil are top-tier picks.
Your Summer Hair Survival Kit:
Wide-tooth comb (bye, breakage)
Leave-in conditioner
UV hair spray
Clarifying shampoo
Deep mask
Silk pillowcase (reduces friction + frizz)
Final Thought: Chlorine & Sun Don't Own You
Summer in the Gulf means sunshine, beach clubs, and rooftop pool hangs—but your hair doesn't have to suffer. With a few key tweaks to your routine, you can keep your hair soft, strong, and selfie-ready all season long. Let your hair live its best summer—chlorine and UV rays can sit this one out.