Curly Hair Moms: Swimming Pools & Beach Tips
Summer is a time for fun in the sun, family vacations, and endless hours spent at the pool or beach. For moms with curly-haired kids, it can also mean a season of extra hair care challenges. Chlorine, saltwater, and the sun's UV rays can be tough on curly hair, leading to dryness, tangles, and frizz. But don't worry! With the right care and a few strategic tips, you can keep your child's curls healthy, hydrated, and looking fabulous all summer long. Here's your ultimate guide to taking care of curly hair before and after hitting the pool or beach.
Before Swimming: Preparation is Key
1. Rinse Before You Swim
One of the best ways to protect curly hair from the damaging effects of chlorine and saltwater is to thoroughly rinse it with fresh water before swimming. Wet hair absorbs less chlorine and saltwater, reducing the amount of damage. Take your child to the shower or use a spray bottle to saturate their hair before they dive in.
2. Apply a Leave-In Conditioner
A good leave-in conditioner creates a protective barrier around the hair, minimizing damage from chlorine and saltwater. RevAir's Hydrating Leave-In Spray is perfect for this. It not only protects but also keeps the curls hydrated and manageable.
How to Use:
- Spray the leave-in conditioner generously on your child's damp hair.
- Ensure even coverage, focusing on the ends which are more prone to dryness.
- Comb through with a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly.
3. Use a Protective Style
Styling your child's hair in protective hairstyles can minimize exposure to chlorine and saltwater. Braids, buns, and twists are excellent options that keep hair secure and reduce the risk of tangling. Remember, the tighter the style, the better it will hold up to the water activities.
4. Consider a Swim Cap
If your child is comfortable wearing one, a swim cap can be an excellent way to protect their curls from the pool or ocean water. Look for caps specifically designed for curly hair, as they offer more space and a better fit.
At the Pool or Beach: Maintenance Tips
1. Reapply Leave-In Conditioner
For extended periods at the pool or beach, bring your leave-in conditioner along. Reapply it every few hours to ensure your child's hair stays protected and moisturized. This is especially important after swimming, as a quick reapplication can help maintain the moisture barrier.
2. Keep Hair Tied Up
If your child’s hair starts to come loose, have them take a break to re-secure their style. Keeping their hair tied up and off their face not only prevents tangles but also reduces the amount of hair exposed to sun and water.
3. Hydrate with Fresh Water
Encourage your child to take breaks and rinse their hair with fresh water throughout the day. This helps to wash away chlorine and salt, reducing the chance of buildup and dryness.
After Swimming: Essential Hair Care
1. Thorough Rinse
Immediately after swimming, rinse your child's hair thoroughly with fresh water to remove as much chlorine or salt as possible. This step is crucial in preventing damage and dryness.
2. Cleanse with a Gentle Shampoo
A gentle, moisturizing shampoo is essential to wash away any residual chlorine or salt without stripping the hair of its natural oils. RevAir’s Oil Cleansing Shampoo is formulated to hydrate and cleanse effectively.
How to Use:
- Apply a generous amount to wet hair.
- Massage into a lather, focusing on the scalp and working through to the ends.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
3. Deep Conditioning Treatment
Post-swim deep conditioning treatments are vital for restoring moisture and elasticity to curly hair. RevAir’s Deep Conditioning Treatment can help repair and hydrate the hair, leaving it soft and manageable.
How to Use:
- Apply the deep conditioner to clean, damp hair.
- Distribute evenly from root to tip.
- Cover with a plastic cap and leave on for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with cool water to lock in moisture.
4. Detangle with Care
After conditioning, it’s time to detangle. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove any knots or tangles. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots to minimize breakage.
Tip: Detangle while the conditioner is still in the hair for easier handling and less breakage.
5. Moisturize and Seal
Replenish moisture lost during swimming by applying a leave-in conditioner followed by an oil to seal in the moisture. RevAir’s Leave-In Spray and Hair Oil Treatment work perfectly together for this step.
How to Use:
- Spray the leave-in conditioner on damp hair and distribute evenly.
- Apply a small amount of hair oil, focusing on the ends to lock in moisture.
- Style as desired or allow hair to air dry.
6. Avoid Heat Styling
After a day at the pool or beach, give your child's hair a break from heat styling. Air drying or using a diffuser on a low heat setting are better options to prevent additional dryness and damage.
Additional Tips for Curly Hair Care in the Summer
1. Regular Scalp Detox
A healthy scalp is crucial for maintaining moisturized and healthy curls. Use RevAir’s Detox Rinse weekly to cleanse and refresh the scalp, removing any buildup from chlorine, salt, and styling products.
How to Use:
- Apply the Detox Rinse directly to the scalp.
- Massage it in gently for a few minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
2. Hydrate from the Inside
Ensure your child stays hydrated by encouraging them to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration from the inside out helps maintain healthy hair and scalp.
3. Use a Satin or Silk Pillowcase
Switching to a satin or silk pillowcase can reduce friction while your child sleeps, preventing tangles and frizz. This is especially beneficial after a day of swimming when hair is more prone to dryness and breakage.
4. Regular Trims
Keep your child’s curls healthy by scheduling regular trims to remove split ends and prevent breakage. Healthy ends are less likely to tangle and frizz, maintaining a neater appearance.
With these tips and the right products, you can keep your child's curly hair healthy, hydrated, and beautiful all summer long. By preparing before swimming, maintaining hair care during pool or beach time, and following up with essential aftercare, you’ll ensure your child’s curls stay protected from the harsh effects of chlorine, saltwater, and sun. RevAir’s range of products, including the Detox Rinse, Moisturizing Shampoo, Deep Conditioning Treatment, Leave-In Spray, and Hair Oil Treatment, are designed to provide the best care for curly hair, making summer hair care a breeze. Enjoy the sunshine and water fun, knowing your child’s curls are in great hands!
