Summer is made for sunshine, swimming, and beach days—but if you’re not careful, it can also do serious damage to your hair. Chlorine from pools and salt from ocean water can dry out strands, fade color, and weaken hair structure over time.
Whether you’re headed for a swim or just spending time outdoors, here’s how to protect your hair from summer’s most common culprits.
The Hidden Damage of Chlorine and Salt Water
Pool chemicals like chlorine strip away natural oils from your hair, leaving it brittle and dry. Salt water, while natural, draws moisture out of your hair and can rough up the cuticle, making hair frizzy and prone to breakage.
These effects are even more intense if you have:
- Color-treated hair
- Hair extensions
- Fine, porous, or textured hair
Regular exposure without proper care can lead to long-term damage—and a lot more time in the salon chair trying to fix it.
Pre-Swim Protection: What to Do Before You Dive In
Before heading to the pool or beach, take a few steps to prep your hair and minimize damage:
- Wet your hair with clean water first – Like a sponge, hair absorbs less pool or ocean water if it’s already wet with fresh water.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil – This adds a protective barrier to lock in moisture and reduce absorption of chlorine and salt.
- Braid or bun your hair – Keeping hair contained limits tangling, exposure, and breakage.
- Use a protective treatment – Our Hair Mini Bar includes express treatments that prep your hair for sun and swim.
Post-Swim Hair Care Tips
Once you’re out of the water, how you rinse and treat your hair matters just as much:
- Rinse immediately with fresh water – Don’t let chlorine or salt sit in your hair longer than necessary.
- Use a clarifying shampoo – once or twice a week to remove buildup without stripping your color.
- Deep condition regularly – Our Color + Lightening Sessions include treatments that restore hydration and shine.
- Avoid heat styling when possible – Give your hair a break from hot tools after a day of sun and swimming.
Special Considerations for Hair Extensions and Color-Treated Hair
Extensions and dyed hair require extra care. Chlorine can break down bonds in extensions and cause color to fade or shift (especially blondes and vibrant tones).
Ask your stylist about:
- Custom aftercare products for your extension type
- A protective gloss or toner to shield your color
- Low-maintenance color options for summer travel
At Beaudee, we offer professional hair extensions and expert advice to help you keep your investment protected all season long.
Want Summer-Ready Hair Without the Damage? Start Here.
Whether you need a fresh cut, a color refresh, or protective treatments for the season, our team at Beaudee Salon in Rhode Island is here to help.
Book a consultation or swing by our Hair + Beauty Guide for more seasonal tips, and explore services like:
- Spray tanning for sun-free glow
- Lash & brow services to complete your beach-day look
- Bridal and special events styling if you’re celebrating this summer
Ready to protect your hair this summer?
Contact us or visit Beaudee Salon to keep your hair strong, soft, and sun-safe all season long.
