There’s something magical about a day at the beach. The sun on your skin, the sound of the waves, and that feeling of your hair drying with a bit of extra texture and volume after a swim in the ocean. It’s a look many try to recreate with sprays and sea salt products. But is that natural ocean water actually good for your hair, or is it secretly causing more harm than good?
The Surprising Benefits of a Saltwater Soak
Ocean water does offer a few perks for your hair. The salt acts as a natural exfoliant for your scalp, helping to remove dead skin cells and product buildup. This can leave your scalp feeling fresher. Salt also has absorbent properties, which is why your hair can gain so much volume and texture. It works by gently drawing out excess oils, giving fine or flat hair a much-appreciated boost and those coveted, effortless beachy waves.
When the Sea Can Be Harsh on Your Hair
While the texturizing effect is desirable, it comes from the salt stripping your hair of its natural moisture. This is where the downside begins. For those with color-treated, dry, or curly hair, this dehydrating effect can be particularly damaging. It can leave your hair feeling brittle, rough, and more prone to tangles and breakage. The combination of salt and sun can also cause color-treated hair to fade more quickly.
How to Protect Your Hair Before and After the Ocean
You don’t have to avoid the ocean to keep your hair healthy. A simple protective step is to rinse your hair with fresh water before you swim. Hair that’s already saturated with clean water will absorb less saltwater. For an extra layer of defense, you can also apply a leave-in conditioner or a light hair oil beforehand. After your swim, be sure to thoroughly rinse your hair again with fresh water as soon as you can to wash the salt out.
Caring for Your Hair Post-Beach
Once you’re home from the shore, give your hair some extra love. Use a moisturizing shampoo and a deep conditioning mask or treatment to replenish the hydration that the salt and sun stole. This helps to restore softness, manageability, and shine, counteracting the drying effects of your day in the waves.
So, is ocean water good for your hair? The answer is a little bit yes and a little bit no. It’s a fantastic natural styler for adding volume and texture, but its drying nature means it requires careful management. With the right preparation and aftercare, you can enjoy the best of the beach while keeping your hair healthy and happy.