Do Swimmers Really Need to Shampoo Twice? Uncover the truth!

If you’re a swimmer, you’ve probably wondered whether shampooing twice after hitting the pool is necessary. You’ve likely heard the age-old advice on shampoo bottles: “lather, rinse, repeat.” Many people assume it’s just a marketing tactic to get you to use more product, but is there truth behind it? Spoiler alert: Shampooing twice isn’t just about selling more shampoo—it can actually benefit your hair health in a big way! Let’s break it down.

Why Swimmers Should Consider Shampooing Twice

Swimming exposes your hair to harsh chemicals like chlorine, which can lead to damage, dryness, and build-up on the scalp. When you shampoo twice, you’re ensuring a deeper clean that helps protect your hair from these elements.

Here’s why the double cleanse is ideal for swimmers:

• Chlorine Removal: Chlorine and other pool chemicals cling to your hair, leaving it feeling dry and brittle. The first shampoo with a chlorine-removing shampoo like TRISWIM Shampoo helps to wash away surface chlorine, while the second wash deeply cleanses the scalp.

• Saltwater Exposure: Saltwater, like chlorine, can leave your hair feeling sticky and dehydrated. Shampooing twice helps break down salt deposits, preventing hair from drying out after a swim.

• Product Build-up: Many swimmers use protective hair products like TRISWIM Conditioner to shield their hair from pool chemicals. While these products are helpful, they can also build up over time. The first shampoo removes this build-up, while the second ensures your hair and scalp are truly clean.

• Sweat and Oil: Whether you swim in the pool or the ocean, your scalp can produce sweat and oils during physical activity. Double shampooing ensures these oils and sweat are effectively washed away, preventing clogged hair follicles and scalp irritation.

The Benefits of Shampooing Twice After Swimming

Swimmers often experience dryness, brittleness, and even discolouration in their hair due to frequent exposure to chlorine and saltwater. Here’s how shampooing twice can help combat these effects:

• Hydration and Moisture Retention: By thoroughly cleansing the hair, a second shampoo allows you to properly condition afterwards, helping your hair retain moisture and stay hydrated. This is crucial for swimmers with dry or damaged hair.

• Healthier Scalp: Frequent exposure to chlorine can irritate the scalp, leading to flakiness or itchiness. Shampooing twice helps ensure that these irritants are fully removed, promoting a healthier scalp environment.

• Prevents Chlorine Damage: Chlorine can weaken hair, making it prone to breakage. The deeper clean achieved by shampooing twice helps remove chlorine more effectively, reducing the risk of long-term damage.

When Should Swimmers Shampoo Twice?

While swimmers can benefit from shampooing twice, it’s not always necessary after every single swim. Here’s when you should consider the double cleanse:

• Frequent Swimmers: If you swim multiple times a week, your hair is more likely to experience build-up from chlorine, salt, and sweat. Shampooing twice will give your hair a much-needed deep cleanse.

• After Long Swim Sessions: If you’ve spent several hours in the pool or ocean, your hair is more exposed to chemicals and salt. A second shampoo helps to thoroughly clean and refresh your hair.

• Using Heavy Hair Products: If you use protective hair products like leave-in conditioners or oils before swimming, shampooing twice ensures you remove all product build-up, leaving your hair light and refreshed.

• When Hair Feels Greasy or Heavy: If your hair feels greasy or heavy after swimming, especially around the roots, double shampooing helps eliminate excess oil and build-up, giving your hair a fresh, clean feel.

Final Verdict: Should Swimmers Shampoo Twice?

Yes! Shampooing twice is highly beneficial for swimmers. Between the chlorine, salt, and product build-up, your hair faces a lot of stress when you’re in the water. Shampooing twice ensures a deeper clean, helps remove chlorine and salt, and promotes healthier hair and scalp. So, next time you’re rinsing off after a swim, don’t skip the second round of shampoo—your hair will thank you for it!

Key Takeaway: Swimmers should shampoo twice to thoroughly cleanse their hair from chlorine, salt, and sweat. The double shampoo prevents damage, keeps your hair hydrated, and leaves you with healthier, cleaner hair after every swim.

Sources:

• Kingsley, Anabel. Swimmer’s Hair: The Benefits of Shampooing Twice. Philip Kingsley, 2021.
• Sobel, Howard. How Swimmers Can Benefit From Shampooing Twice. Healthline, 2022.
• Wong, Lab Muffin. Why Shampooing Twice Is Crucial for Swimmers. Lab Muffin Beauty Science, 2021.