Here's why:
* Chlorine and Blonde Hair are Enemies: Chlorine is a bleaching agent. On blonde hair, especially freshly highlighted blonde hair, it can react with the hair's proteins and minerals, leading to:
* Greenish Tones: Chlorine can react with copper in the water (which is often present in pool water or even in your pipes) and deposit it onto your hair, causing a greenish tint. This is especially common with light blonde shades.
* Dryness and Damage: Chlorine strips the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, brittleness, and increased breakage, especially in hair that has already been chemically processed.
* Fading and Dullness: Chlorine can fade your blonde highlights and make them appear dull and lifeless.
* Brassy Tones: In some cases, chlorine can react with the hair and cause it to develop brassy or orange tones.
How Long Should You Wait?
Ideally, you should wait at least two weeks after getting your hair highlighted before swimming in a chlorinated pool. This allows the hair cuticles to close and the hair to be slightly less porous and vulnerable.
If You Must Swim:
If you absolutely must swim, here are some steps you can take to minimize damage:
1. Saturate Your Hair with Clean Water First: Before entering the pool, thoroughly wet your hair with clean tap water (not pool water). This helps to prevent your hair from absorbing as much chlorinated water.
2. Apply a Leave-In Conditioner or Hair Oil: Coat your hair with a generous amount of leave-in conditioner or hair oil. This creates a barrier to protect your hair from the chlorine. Coconut oil, olive oil, and argan oil are good options.
3. Wear a Swim Cap: A swim cap is the best way to physically protect your hair from chlorine. Make sure it fits snugly to minimize water seepage.
4. Rinse Your Hair Immediately After Swimming: As soon as you get out of the pool, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water to remove as much chlorine as possible.
5. Use a Chlorine-Removing Shampoo: Use a specially formulated chlorine-removing shampoo to help neutralize and wash away any remaining chlorine. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner.
6. Deep Condition Regularly: Deep condition your hair once or twice a week to replenish moisture and repair damage.
Alternative Options:
* Consider a Saltwater Pool: Saltwater pools are often gentler on the hair than chlorine pools.
* Talk to Your Hair Stylist: Ask your stylist for recommendations on products and treatments to protect your highlighted hair from chlorine.
In summary, swimming in a chlorinated pool after highlighting your hair can cause significant damage and discoloration. Take preventative measures if you must swim, and prioritize hair care to maintain the health and color of your blonde highlights.