Philip Kingsley's Swimcap is my new summer essential for sun and sea haircare

Metro

01-06-2025

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Philip Kingsley's Elasticizer is and has been my ultimate favourite haircare product for years. But, the brand has recently released a new hair hero I am equally as obsessed with – the Swimcap.
The launch of Philip Kingsley's Swimcap earlier this year was perfectly timed as it dropped ahead of the summer months and holiday season, which is when it is designed to be used. This hair treatment aims to protect against harmful UV rays, chlorine and salty sea water, which can wreak havoc with everyone's locks – dyed or not.
The nourishing hair mask has been formulated with trichologists to create a deeply nourishing and protective hair mask. It contains castor oil, olive oil, hydrolysed elastin to maintain the hair's elasticity and vibrancy.The sulphate and paraben-free hair mask aims to seal each hair shaft to protect against any damage from UV rays, chlorine and salt water. BUY NOW FOR £25
The Swimcap has also been described as the Chlorine Hair Protection Water Resistant Mask on the website, though it does much more than that.
The mask has been formulated with nourishing and protective ingredients to hydrate the hair, as well as prevent damage caused from UV rays, chlorine and salt water. The cream mask contains hydrolysed elastin, which strengthens the hair shaft to prevent damage, as well as castor oil to lock in moisture that is typically lost in the sun. Olive oil is another key ingredient, as it is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids to hydrate the hair, and boost its shine.
The sulphate and paraben-free formula has been refined by leading trichologists at the longstanding haircare label, so it is safe for all hair types.
But why is the Swimcap different to the Elasticizer or other hair masks we hear you ask. This mask has been specifically designed to wear in the day, particularly in the summer months and when on holiday, to protect your scalp and hair from the elements.
Through Philip Kingsley's research, they found consumers apply SPF on their skin, but 82% of people neglect protecting their hair. But it is essential to protect your hair especially when in the sun, whether you are gardening, swimming, sunbathing, or pottering outdoors, as it is often in direct contact with the sun. The sun's rays, combined with chlorine and salt water, is a cocktail that can cause your hair to feel dry, brittle, dull, and break.
The solution? The Swimcap. This nourishing hair treatment is water resistant, which means your hair, whether it is dyed or not, will be protected in the sun.
The mask is applied in a similar way to the Elasticizer. To reap the benefits apply before heading out into the sun, or taking a dip in the sun, as it provides a protective veil on your hair. It is best applied to damp hair to lock in moisture and seal the hair shaft, then wash out as you usually would with a shampoo and conditioner after a day spent beachside.
Philip Kingsley has found 92% of people found their hair felt protected after the first use, while 89% noted their hair had not dried out by sun or water, and nine out of 10 people said their hair felt hydrated.
Yes, these are bold claims, but we can vouch for this product. I tried the Swimcap on a recent trip to Ibiza. I lathered on the mask for a boat day and it stayed put. It also didn't glue my hair together, or look like I had greasy locks, in fact it helped create mermaid waves to last all day, which is a serious accomplishment, especially as my hair knots easily when the sea air and water mix together. After a day out, the mask washed out effortlessly, and left my tresses feeling silky smooth and shiny afterwards. More Trending
The Swimcap retails for £25 for 100ml tube, and a little goes a long way. However, Philip Kingsley is offering customers the chance to save more when they subscribe to get regular top ups of the hero product. Considering I won't go on holiday without it, it's worth the £20 subscription in my books.
Plus, if you are looking for an extra pamper, I strongly recommend you book a visit to Philip Kingsley's London clinic to assess your scalp and hair needs, and for the most luxurious hair treatment I have ever indulged in.
Trust us, you won't want to leave without it.
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