How to protect your scalp and hair from pool water?

Understanding the impact of chlorine and salt on hair and scalp.

Chlorine in swimming pool water has measurable effects on hair structure and the balance of the skin flora of the scalp.

Why do chlorine and salt damage hair?

Chlorine is a powerful oxidant used to disinfect water. While essential for limiting the growth of bacteria, it disrupts the natural lipid balance of the scalp and hair fiber.

• In hair , it slightly opens the scales (cuticles) that protect the keratin, which increases porosity. More porous hair loses its internal water more easily, becomes dry, dull, fragile and more vulnerable to breakage.

• At the scalp level , chlorine alters the hydrolipidic film and can unbalance the skin flora (natural microorganisms that protect the skin). This imbalance promotes irritation, feelings of discomfort, itching and reactions such as excessive sebum production or the appearance of dandruff.

In addition, salt (in seawater or salt pools) accentuates dehydration: it creates a call for water outside the fibers and the scalp, which contributes to drying them out further.

Varying effects depending on textures and scalps.

Certain hair and scalp types are more sensitive:

• Curly, frizzy and kinky hair, which is naturally drier, is particularly prone to dehydration.

• Fine hair, already mechanically fragile, can become brittle more quickly.

• Scalps prone to imbalances (sensitivity, excess or lack of sebum, dandruff) can react in an amplified way to chlorine or salt.

What routine should you adopt after swimming?

1. Rinse immediately after removing from the water to limit oxidation.

A thorough rinse with clean water is the essential first step. It helps remove a large portion of the chlorine and salt before they settle in the scales and on the scalp.
The longer you wait, the more oxidation progresses. This simple step prevents some of the structural damage.

2. Clean without harming.

Choose a gentle shampoo formulated with non-sulfated surfactants and moisturizing or soothing active ingredients. The goal is to rid the hair fiber and scalp of chlorine residue while preserving their protective barrier.

Avoid shampoos that are too “stripping” which risk aggravating the hydrolipidic imbalance.

3. Rebalance and soothe the scalp.

After exposure to chlorine, the skin flora of the scalp can become disorganized. This promotes feelings of tightness and itching, and can trigger a seborrheic reaction.

To restore balance to the scalp, we recommend applying a specific treatment, such as our Möss Scalp Rebalancing Treatment .

• It combines active ingredients of natural origin rigorously selected for their soothing and regulating effects.

• It supports the skin flora, restores the hydrolipidic barrier and rebalances sebum secretions.

• This step is essential to prevent the appearance of dandruff, calm irritation and prepare a healthy environment for regrowth.

4. Nourish and strengthen the fiber.

After swimming, the hair cuticle is more open: it's time to apply a nourishing treatment or a repairing mask.

• Choose formulas rich in essential fatty acids and plant proteins.

• For curly or frizzy textures, a moisturizing leave-in treatment can be added to maintain suppleness.

• Vegetable oils, applied in small quantities, help to smooth the scales and limit the evaporation of water contained in the fiber.
  
  

5. Dry gently.

After swimming, avoid blow-drying or straightening your hair, which can weaken already sensitized hair fibers.

• Gently pat hair with a microfiber towel to limit friction.

• Allow to air dry when possible.
  
  

What to do before swimming to limit the effects of chlorine.

• Wet your hair with clean water before entering the pool. This reduces its ability to absorb chlorine or salt.
• Wear a swimming cap. This is the most effective solution to reduce contact.
• Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or conditioner before swimming. This forms a physical barrier that slows the penetration of aggressive agents.
  
  

In summary.

• Rinse immediately with clean water after swimming.

• Cleanse with a gentle shampoo, free of harsh sulfates.

• Soothe and rebalance your scalp with Möss Rebalancing Treatment , to prevent irritation and imbalances.

• Nourish the fiber with a mask or oil suited to your texture.

• Dry gently and limit direct heat sources.