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Best Conditioner for Swimmers: Protect Your Hair From Chlorine Damage (2024)

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best conditioner for swimmers

For the best conditioner to protect your hair from chlorine damage, look for products specifically formulated for swimmers.

Top choices like Zealios, Malibu C, and Ultraswim contain nourishing ingredients that remove chlorine buildup and replenish moisture.

Before swimming, wet your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to create a protective barrier.

Post-swim, use a deep conditioning treatment and leave-in product for continuous hydration.

With the right conditioner for swimmers alongside a gentle routine, you’ll keep your locks healthy and manageable.

Key Takeaways

  • Swimmers should look for conditioners specifically formulated for their needs, as these products effectively remove chlorine and protect hair from damage.
  • Top choices include Zelos, Malibu C, and UltraSwim, which contain nourishing ingredients and are safe for color-treated hair.
  • Before swimming, wet your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner or oil to create a protective barrier. Post-swim, use a deep conditioning treatment and leave-in product for continuous hydration.
  • To prepare your hair for swimming, wet it with fresh water, apply a leave-in conditioner or coconut oil, and consider wearing a swim cap. After swimming, rinse your hair with clean water to remove any chlorine or salt build-up.

Top 10 Conditioners for Swimmers

As a swimmer, you know the importance of protecting your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine. Fortunately, there are several excellent conditioners designed specifically for swimmers that can help combat dryness, split ends, and discoloration caused by exposure to pool water.

1. Zealios Swim Sports Hair Conditioner

Zealios Swim & Sports HairView On Amazon

Zealios Swim & Sport Conditioner is a highly-regarded product for swimmers that effectively removes chlorine, sweat, and salt from your hair without stripping it of its essential oils.

This sulfate-free conditioner is safe for color and chemically treated hair, making it suitable for a wide range of users.

It contains natural ingredients like aloe vera juice and sunflower oil, which help hydrate, repair, detangle, and protect damaged hair.

The subtle citrus scent is invigorating and enhances the overall experience.

The conditioner is lightweight and designed for daily use, making it a convenient addition to your post-swim routine.

Best For: Swimmers and endurance athletes who want to protect and repair their hair from chlorine, sun, wind, and salt damage.

Pros
  • Repairs and protects hair from chlorine, sun, wind, and salt
  • Moisturizes and detangles hair
  • Light citrus fragrance
Cons
  • Non-scented
  • Price per ounce is better in the large bottle
  • May prevent skin rashes from chlorine exposure

2. Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Hair Care

Malibu C Swimmers Wellness CollectionView On Amazon

Embrace the pool with confidence, knowing that Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Hair Care has your hair covered.

This dynamic duo of shampoo and conditioner stands as your hair’s champion against the rigors of pool and ocean waters.

Infused with allantoin, provitamin B5, and flax protein, it effectively neutralizes chlorine’s effects, reviving your hair’s inherent beauty.

Think of it as a hydrating elixir for your hair, leaving it tangle-free, lustrous, and poised to turn heads.

As a vegan, eco-conscious, and cruelty-free choice, it’s the guilt-free solution for swimmers seeking to maintain their locks’ vibrancy.

Before you make a splash, ensure Malibu C has your back—or more precisely, your hair.

Best For: Swimmers and those with hair exposed to chlorine or ocean water

Pros
  • Removes damage and impurities caused by chlorine and other minerals
  • Restores texture, prevents dryness, and detangles hair
  • Hydrates hair from the roots
Cons
  • Some users may not prefer the scent of the crystals
  • May need to be used multiple times to remove green tinge from hair
  • Can be expensive compared to other hair care products

3. Ultraswim Conditioner Value Pack 3

ULTRASWIM Conditioner, Value Pack ofView On Amazon

UltraSwim Conditioner Value Pack 3 is a top choice for swimmers looking to protect their hair from chlorine damage.

This conditioner is designed to provide deep moisture to dry, parched hair, mending split ends, reducing breakage, and restoring shine and elasticity.

It’s safe for color-treated hair and prevents fading and brassiness.

The formula is free of harsh sulfates, parabens, and silicones, making it gentle and suitable for all hair types, including sensitive scalps.

The value pack of 3 offers a convenient and cost-effective option for swimmers who want to maintain healthy, chlorine-free hair.

Best For: Swimmers looking to protect their hair from chlorine damage.

Pros
  • Provides deep moisture to dry, parched hair
  • Mends split ends, reduces breakage, and restores shine and elasticity
  • Safe for color-treated hair and prevents fading and brassiness
Cons
  • Not specified

4. Exershield Swimmers Chlorine Conditioner

Swimmers Conditioner - After SwimView On Amazon
Exershield Swimmers Chlorine Conditioner is a highly-rated product for swimmers, designed to effectively remove chlorine, bromine, and salt water odor from hair.

Enriched with natural ingredients like organic aloe leaf juice, lavender flower water, and chamomile flower water, this conditioner is safe for color-treated and blonde hair.

It’s also free of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates, making it a vegan-friendly and cruelty-free option.

The subtle citrus scent is a delightful addition, and the conditioner is suitable for daily use.

Swimmers can apply it after swimming to replenish moisture and restore strength to their hair.

Best For: Swimmers and athletes with chlorine-damaged hair.

Pros
  • Effectively removes chlorine, bromine, and salt water odor
  • Nourishes and strengthens hair
  • Free from harsh chemicals and safe for colored and treated hair
Cons
  • Cap closure is not secure
  • Product is watery and does not adhere well to hair
  • Has a strange smell

5. Triswim Kids Scented Swimmer Hair Conditioner

TRISWIM Kids Scented Conditioner After-View On Amazon

Triswim Kids Scented Swimmer Hair Conditioner is a must-have for parents who want to protect their children’s hair from the harsh effects of chlorine.

This conditioner is specifically designed for swimmers and is gentle enough for kids.

It’s scented with a delightful blend of pineapple and mango, making it a fun addition to your child’s bath time routine.

The conditioner is paraben-free and not tested on animals, ensuring that it’s safe for your little one.

With 8.5 ounces of product, you’ll have enough to last for a while.

If you’re looking for a conditioner that will keep your child’s hair healthy and hydrated after swimming, Triswim Kids Scented Swimmer Hair Conditioner is an excellent choice.

Best For: Swimmers with dry or damaged hair.

Pros
  • Moisturizes and conditions hair
  • Detangles dry and damaged hair
  • Strengthens hair follicles
Cons
  • Pineapple & Mango scent may not be suitable for all users
  • Not widely available in stores
  • May not be effective for all hair types

6. Swimmer Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner

After Swim Shampoo and ConditionerView On Amazon

Swimmer Clarifying Shampoo and Conditioner are an effective pair designed specifically for swimmers to combat the harmful effects of chlorine on their hair. These products are formulated to eliminate chlorine, saltwater**, and other harsh chemicals from your hair and scalp, leaving it feeling hydrated, nourished, and refreshed.

The clarifying shampoo is designed to gently remove chlorine and add moisture back to your hair, which has been lost due to chlorine exposure. It’s recommended to use this shampoo judiciously and only as necessary, as it’s highly effective at removing chlorine.

The conditioner, on the other hand, is indispensable for swimmers as it helps to detangle, hydrate, and protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine and saltwater. Ordinary conditioners aren’t suitable for swimmers, as they can’t eliminate harsh chemicals such as chlorine. Consequently, using a swimmer-specific conditioner is essential for maintaining healthy, lustrous hair.

Best For: Swimmers who want to eliminate chlorine and nourish their hair.

Pros
  • Effectively removes chlorine and other harsh chemicals
  • Hydrates and nourishes hair
  • Protects hair from damage
Cons
  • Smells like cough medicine (some reviewers)
  • Bottles are small (some reviewers)
  • Did not remove chlorine very well (some reviewers)

7. Newton Bay Swimming Pool Conditioner

Swimmers Conditioner | Swimming PoolView On Amazon

Exploring the realm of swimmer’s hair care, Newton Bay Swimming Pool Conditioner stands as a savior for those battling the harsh effects of chlorine.

Crafted with a blend of Abyssinian seed oil, shea butter, aloe leaf juice, and eucalyptus essential oil, this conditioner is your hair’s knight in shining armor.

It’s like giving your locks a hydrating hug, restoring moisture, shine, and softness while enhancing manageability.

Plus, it’s cruelty-free and supports environmental causes, making it not just good for your hair but for the planet too.

So, before you take the plunge, make sure Newton Bay is in your swim bag.

Best For: Swimmers looking to restore moisture and shine to hair damaged by pool chemicals.

Pros
  • Restores moisture, shine, and softness
  • Enhances manageability
  • Cruelty-free and charitable
Cons
  • Some reviewers found the scent unpleasant
  • Some reviewers found the conditioner rough and ineffective
  • Some reviewers noticed no difference from regular conditioner

8. R+Co Sun Catcher Power C Boosting Conditioner

R+Co Sun Catcher Power CView On Amazon

R+Co Sun Catcher Power C Boosting Conditioner is a must-have for swimmers looking to protect their hair from chlorine damage.

This conditioner is packed with vitamin C, which acts as a shield against environmental aggressors and UV damage.

It also contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks in moisture, and vegetable collagen, which fortifies and strengthens hair.

It’s cruelty-free and vegan, making it a great choice for those who prioritize ethical beauty products.

With a pleasant scent and smooth application, this conditioner provides immediate shine and softness.

It’s an excellent value because a little goes a long way.

It’s ideal for no-effort hair looks and works well on curly hair, although it may not be as effective for detangling in the shower for long, fine hair.

Overall, R+Co Sun Catcher Power C Boosting Conditioner is a great addition to any swimmer’s hair care routine.

Best For: Swimmers looking to protect their hair from chlorine damage.

Pros
  • Protects hair from environmental aggressors and UV damage
  • Provides immediate shine and softness
  • Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
  • May not be as effective for detangling in the shower for long, fine hair
  • Changes the appearance of dull, dry, and flyaway hair, but may not be super impressive upon application
  • Not very effective for detangling in the shower (for long, fine hair)

9. Briogeo Curl Charisma Curl Cream

Briogeo Curl Charisma Curl Cream,View On Amazon

Briogeo’s Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Creme is a popular choice for swimmers looking to protect their curls from chlorine damage. This lightweight, creamy formula is formulated with 95% naturally derived ingredients and is vegan and cruelty-free. It’s free from silicones, phthalates, parabens, DEA, and artificial dyes.

Key ingredients in the Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino & Avocado Leave-In Defining Creme include Rice Amino Acids, which help to seal the hair’s cuticle and lock out frizz and humidity, creating smooth and well-defined curls and coils. Avocado Oil delivers lightweight moisture to every curl and helps to soften the hair and boost natural shine for stunning curls every time. Tomato Fruit Extract helps enhance the hair’s ability to retain moisture, ensuring consistent curl formation and enhancing definition.

To use the Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Creme, apply one to two quarter-sized amounts evenly to damp hair from root to tip after washing and conditioning. Don’t rinse. It’s ideal for all curls, coils, and waves to provide soft and flexible control.

Best For: Swimmers looking to protect their curls from chlorine damage.

Pros
  • 95% naturally derived ingredients
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Provides soft and flexible control
Cons
  • Some users report that it does not perform any miracles on hair
  • Some users report that it is not as hydrating as they had hoped
  • Some users report that it is not worth the price

10. Sachajuan Silver Shampoo 8.4 Fl Oz

SACHAJUAN Silver Shampoo, 8.4 FlView On Amazon

If you’re a swimmer looking to protect your hair from chlorine damage, you’ll love the Sachajuan Silver Shampoo 8.4 Fl Oz. This shampoo is specially formulated to counteract and neutralize yellow/golden tones in blonde and grey hair, adding volume and new luster to your locks. It also offers UV-protection, which is essential for swimmers. The shampoo is vegan and cruelty-free, and it’s free from parabens.

To use the Sachajuan Silver Shampoo, simply massage a small amount into wet hair and leave it on for 1-2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Remember to follow up with a conditioner to guarantee your hair remains hydrated and healthy.

Best For: Swimmers looking to protect their hair from chlorine damage and enhance blonde or grey hair.

Pros
  • Counteracts yellow/golden tones in blonde and grey hair
  • Adds volume and luster
  • Offers UV-protection
Cons
  • Not mentioned in the provided context

Preparing Hair for Swimming

Preparing Hair for Swimming

To prepare your hair for swimming, you can take several steps to minimize the damage caused by chlorine and other chemicals in the pool.

First, wet your hair with fresh water before entering the pool to help it absorb less chlorinated water.

You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or coconut oil to create a protective barrier against chlorine penetration.

Additionally, consider wearing a swim cap to further protect your hair from exposure to chlorine and other minerals in the pool.

Remember to rinse your hair with clean water after swimming to remove any chlorine or salt build-up.

Post-Swim Hair Care

Post-Swim Hair Care
After an invigorating dip, your hair may feel like it’s been through a tempest. Here’s how to restore its vitality:

  • Conditioner suggestions: Explore a plethora of choices, but discover the one that revitalizes your hair.
  • Deep conditioning treatments: It’s akin to a sanctuary for your hair, rejuvenating each tress.
  • Leave-in conditioner advantages: Maintains your hair’s hydration better than a nomad in the arid expanse.
  • Product value comparisons: Not all treasures will deplete your purse—strike a harmonious balance.
  • Hair treatments for swimmers: Your clandestine defense against the chlorine scourge.

General Hair Care Advice for Swimmers

General Hair Care Advice for Swimmers
You don’t want to over-wash your hair after swimming, as it can strip away essential natural oils that keep your locks healthy and hydrated. If you notice your hair becoming increasingly dry, brittle, or unmanageable despite following good haircare practices, it’s wise to consult a professional hairstylist who can assess the condition of your hair and provide personalized recommendations.

Avoid Over-washing Hair, as It Can Strip Natural Oils

Over-washing your hair can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dry scalp, itchiness, hair breakage, hair loss, dryness, and brittle hair. To avoid this, aim to wash your hair only when necessary, ideally every 2-3 days. If you must wash daily, use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Remember, less is more with regard to hair care.

Consult a Hairstylist if Hair Becomes Unmanageable

If your hair becomes unmanageable due to damage, it’s time to consult a hairstylist for professional advice. A hairstylist can assess the condition of your hair and provide personalized recommendations for hair care products and treatments. Here are three steps to help you get started:

  1. Schedule a consultation: Find a reputable hairstylist who specializes in damaged hair and book an appointment for a consultation.
  2. Share your concerns: During the consultation, explain your hair concerns and the issues you’ve been experiencing with your hair.
  3. Follow their recommendations: Based on their assessment, the hairstylist will provide you with a customized hair care routine, including the use of conditioners, hair masks, and other products to help repair and protect your damaged hair.

Conclusion

Protecting your locks from chlorine’s harsh effects is akin to shielding a delicate flower from scorching rays.

With the best conditioner for swimmers, you’ll erect a protective barrier, restoring moisture and eliminating buildup.

Adopt a gentle routine, avoiding excessive washing, and seeking professional advice when necessary.

Nourish your hair’s vitality, and it will flourish with vibrant health, resisting the pool’s damaging grip.

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.