Why does my hair change color after swimming?

Chlorine in swimming pools or salt in seawater can especially cause light and colored hair to turn greenish or orange. Sunlight can also fade or change your hair color.

Does just wearing a hat help enough?

A hat is great against UV radiation, but it doesn't protect your hair from salt or chlorine. So combine it with a UV spray or leave-in conditioner.

How often should I rinse my hair during a beach day?

Ideally after every dive. No shower nearby? Bring a bottle of clean water and rinse your hair.

Does sunscreen work on your hair?

Not really. It's better to use a special hair mist or spray with UV protection. They are lighter and won't leave your hair greasy.

Can I also use natural products as protection?

Sure! Apple cider vinegar (as a rinse) or a bit of coconut oil can help, but they offer less UV protection than specialized products.

Beauty

This is how you keep your hair beautiful during sun, sea, and pool

By Lotte van Scherpenzeel | #!30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:001530#30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:00-12Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam202530 20pm30pm-30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:0012Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam2025302025Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +02002112216pmFriday=9#!30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:00Europe\/Amsterdam6#06-20-2025#!30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:001530#\/30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:00-12Europe\/Amsterdam3030Europe\/Amsterdam202530#!30Fri, 20 Jun 2025 12:21:15 +0200+02:00Europe\/Amsterdam6#

Friend A. had returned from an amazing vacation in Bali, but she had brought home a souvenir that she couldn't get rid of for years: green hair. Her blonde locks had completely discolored from swimming in the sea and pool, and no matter what she tried, it stayed green. Many hair sessions at the hairdresser, shampoos, and masks were tried; nothing worked. So annoying. Fortunately, we are years later and her locks are as beautiful as before, so patience is rewarded – but nice is different. That's why I protect my hair and do everything I can to ensure that my blonde dyed locks stay as they were before the vacation. And yes, it works, with these tips.

1. Rinse your hair before swimming
Sounds crazy, but wet hair with clean water absorbs less chlorine or salt. So hop, a quick shower before you take that dive. This way, you not only help yourself but also protect your hair in the summer.

2. Leave-in conditioner is your summer BFF
Opt for a nourishing leave-in with UV protection. It forms a protective layer, as if you're putting sunglasses on your hair. Bonus: it usually smells divine too.

3. UV-protective spray: the hero of your beach bag
One of my favorites: the Wella Invigo Sun UV Hair Color Protection Spray. This lightweight spray is packed with nourishing ingredients like Pro-Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E, and protects against sun, salt, and chlorine. It leaves no sticky residue and is easy to take along for a quick re-spray. Perfect for blondes or colored hair that is sensitive to discoloration. A must if you want to protect your hair in the summer.

4. Wear a hat or scarf
Not only chic but also super practical. Protects your scalp and your color. A little hat is literally a shade for your hair.

5. After swimming: rinse immediately
As soon as you come out of the pool or sea, it's rinse time. This removes the salt and chlorine before they cause damage. Even under a simple beach shower is already a win.

6. Make a protective braid
Loose hair has more surface area that can be damaged. Braiding, a bun, anything helps. And bonus: beachy braid = instant holiday look. This also helps protect your hair from summer stress.

7. Avoid being in the sun with wet hair
The combination of sun and wet hair is a hair disaster. Dry your hair or cover it up when going into the sun.

8. Use a clarifying shampoo (in moderation!)
To really remove all traces of chlorine, a clarifying shampoo is a lifesaver. But: use it max once a week, otherwise, you'll also wash out your color. Choose one that is mild if you want to protect your hair in the summer.

9. Rinse your hair with cola (yes really)
Do you have green hair from chlorine? Cola can help neutralize that green tint. Let it sit for a bit and rinse well. Sounds crazy, but it works.

10. Apple cider vinegar against orange locks
Do you have a warm glow that you didn't ask for? Mix one part apple cider vinegar with three parts water and use it as a rinse. It can work wonders for unwanted discoloration.

But apple cider vinegar does more: it closes your hair cuticles, making your hair smoother and shinier. It also helps against dandruff due to its antibacterial properties, removes product build-up, and keeps your scalp balanced. Extra bonus: it even works soothingly as aftersun for your scalp.

11. Don't forget your hairline
We dutifully apply sunscreen to our faces, but the baby hairs at your hairline are often forgotten. A quick application prevents them from discoloring – we are no longer in 2022.

Shop our favorite hair protection

Wella Invigo Sun UV Color Protection Spray
Lightweight, nourishing, and ideal for colored or blonde hair. Prevents discoloration, doesn't stick, and smells wonderful.

Sisley Hair Rituel Protective
A luxury mist that not only protects against UV radiation but also against salt and chlorine. Makes your hair shiny, soft, and provides intensive protection. Definitely an investment, but oh so nice.

Balmain Sun Protection Spray
Looks like a fashion statement, works like a sun shield for your hair. The scent is fantastic and it protects and hydrates in one spray.

Coola Scalp & Hair Mist Organic Sunscreen SPF30
This refreshing mist with SPF30 is specially developed for your hair and scalp. Organic, non-greasy, and ideal for the beach or pool.