Finally summer has also arrived in Switzerland! We’re currently experiencing a heatwave (which is rather unusual in Switzerland) which is what has inspired me to write a post on how to take care of your curls when you go swimming either in a pool or at the beach. With these 5 tips you can really enjoy a off!

1. Prepare your curls before you go swimming

The combination of sun and salt/chloride causes your curls to become drier than usual (and by that also frizzier), which is why I suggest you to deep condition your curls more often in times when you’re repeatedly swimming in a swimming pool or in the sea. It’s best to already do this before you’re sunbathing (and then again afterwards).

2. Put your curls into a bun or high ponytail when swimming

As both, salt and chloride cause your curls to dry out, I like to put my curls in a bun or a high ponytail whenever I go swimming. This doesn’t only keep them from getting wet and thus being exposed to salt or chloride, but also keeps me cool – I just can’t stand wearing my curls open when temperatures are above 30 degrees (86 degrees fahrenheit).

3. If your curls get wet – shower to get rid of the salt/chloride

In case you really feel like diving into the water and by that getting all of your curls wet, I strongly recommend you to shower you and your curls right after getting out of the water (usually there is a shower in every pool and beach area) to wash out the salt or chloride in your curls. If possible also use a bit of your conditioner to re-moisturize your curls.

4. Don’t use any hair ties with a metal part

Your curls are really prone to breakage when you pull them back using a hair tie with a metal part when your curls are still wet. You should only use protective styles while your curls are still wet. At that stage I prefer braiding my curls (see the picture above) and letting them air-dry this way – btw: this also gets you some nice (bigger) beach waves. In case your curls are too short to be braided this way, you could do two french braids (french and dutch braids also work very well with shorter hair!).

5. Wear a hat when you’re sunbathing

If you like sunbathing, it’s best to wear a hat to protect your curls from the sun. This is particularly important for those coloring their curls! By the way: wearing a hat isn’t only a good method to prevent getting a sunstroke but also very stylish.

But now, enjoy the nice weather!