Swimming towards bald patches?
http://www.hair123.co.uk/articles/articles/7/1/Swimming-towards-bald-patches/Page1.html
Susan Whitford
Susan Whitford has twelve years experience as a health and beauty journalist in the United Kingdom. Susan has worked as a staff writer and features editor on a number of consumer magazines. By Susan Whitford
Published on 9th May, 2008
Although a weekly dip at the local pool may be doing the body lots of good... is it so healthy for the hair?
Although a weekly dip at the local pool may be doing the body lots of good... is it so healthy for the hair?
Recent findings suggest that it isn't, and that frequent exposure to the chemicals in swimming pools can significantly damage hair – and even worsen hair loss.
The chlorine in swimming pools bonds with hair protein and causes the cuticle - the protective scaly outer protein layer that covers each visible hair - to be eaten away, resulting in dry and brittle hair. This makes the hair weak and prone to being easily damaged by brushing or combing, which may lead to hair breakage, split ends, and even hair loss.
This doesn't mean giving up weekly exercise though, since there are some simple steps that can be taken to avoid hair damage and loss.
In the first instance, always wear a cap when swimming, as this will protect hair from most if not all damage.
Then, aim to wash hair with fresh water immediately after swimming. Use a shampoo which is pH balanced and contains sodium thiosulfate, as this will dissolve chlorine and help to reverse any damage.
Swimming is a great way to stay fit and healthy, so follow these simple steps and there's no need to sacrifice hair for health!
Recent findings suggest that it isn't, and that frequent exposure to the chemicals in swimming pools can significantly damage hair – and even worsen hair loss.
The chlorine in swimming pools bonds with hair protein and causes the cuticle - the protective scaly outer protein layer that covers each visible hair - to be eaten away, resulting in dry and brittle hair. This makes the hair weak and prone to being easily damaged by brushing or combing, which may lead to hair breakage, split ends, and even hair loss.
This doesn't mean giving up weekly exercise though, since there are some simple steps that can be taken to avoid hair damage and loss.
In the first instance, always wear a cap when swimming, as this will protect hair from most if not all damage.
Then, aim to wash hair with fresh water immediately after swimming. Use a shampoo which is pH balanced and contains sodium thiosulfate, as this will dissolve chlorine and help to reverse any damage.
Swimming is a great way to stay fit and healthy, so follow these simple steps and there's no need to sacrifice hair for health!