15 Best Shampoos For Swimmers (2024), As Per A Trichologist
Keep toxicity away from your gentle tresses with effective cleansing products.
Beurena is a certified trichologist with 6 years of experience and a graduate of the Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia. She is also the CEO of the Hair and Scalp Treatment Centers in Augusta, Georgia, and the founder of The Trichology School of Business.
Read full bio of Beurena Johnson
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience, she writes about everything that the modern woman needs to know about grooming and self-care.
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsEshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.
Read full bio of Eshna Das
If you enjoy spending time in the pool or if you are a professional swimmer, you are aware of the effects of chlorine and how challenging it is to keep the chlorine away from your hair. To cope with this, you must try the best shampoo for swimmers made with the most effective cleansing agents that remove dirt, impurities, and build-up from your hair. They also prevent dryness, brittleness, green tint, and chemical odor. They keep your hair and scalp moisturized and prevent itchiness.
Beurena Johnson, a certified trichologist and the founder of The Trichology School of Business, suggests, “Any exposure to chlorine will do a number on your tresses. It’s different for different hair types, depending on the hair health state. Chlorine is a bleach, and it treats hair and skin equally. It strips natural oils and melanin regardless of any hair type. If you’re swimming several times per week and wearing a swim cap is not an option, shampoo and rinse your hair directly after chlorine exposure to help flush the chemicals out and moisturize the hair.”
Try out a shampoo from our list of the 15 best chlorine-removal shampoos below! All these products are chosen after an in-depth analysis of their reviews.
In This Article
What Is The Impact Of Chlorine On Your Hair?
When you swim in a pool treated with chlorine, your hair turns brittle, knotted, and dry. In certain scenarios, your hair may become thin and fall out. When you take a dip in a chlorine-treated pool, your hair absorbs this chemical and strips away the natural oil – sebum – that acts as a conditioner. It oxidizes the internal disulfide bonds of your hair causing it to lose strength and elasticity, which leads to breakage. Frequent exposure to chlorinated water results in split ends, cracks in the hair cuticles, and unhealthy hair.
This is how chlorine will damage your hair. But, do chlorine removal shampoos really work? Scroll down to know in detail.
Do Chlorine Removal Shampoos Really Work?
Yes. Chlorine removal shampoos work by targeting hard water minerals like chlorine and effectively removing them from your hair. Their nourishing and hydrating formulas offer relief from dry and itchy scalp. They also help strengthen hair cuticles, improve hair texture, and impart natural shine to your hair.
Below is a list of the best 15 chlorine removal shampoos for swimmers.
15 Best Chlorine Removal Shampoos For Swimmers
1. Best For Relieving Itchy Scalp: TRISWIM Shampoo
If you are looking for the best shampoo with a hydrating formula to get rid of that green tint on your hair, try this TRISWIM Shampoo. The salon-quality formula of this shampoo removes harsh chemicals such as chlorine, bromine, hard water minerals, and chemical odors from your hair along with chlorine. It contains natural herbs like chamomile and watercress that have proven efficacy in relieving symptoms of dandruff and itchy, dry scalps. This chlorine removal swimmer shampoo also helps build strong hair and nourish brittle, lifeless, and dry hair. Plus, a rich blend of hair-nourishing ingredients such as pro-vitamin B5 and aloe vera helps hydrate the hair. The hydrating shampoo also provides pool hair care, saltwater protection, and hair defense.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Pro vitamin B5, Chamomile, Watercress
Pros
- Mango fragrance
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- The cap may leak.
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The extensive 2,901 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.
2. Best Preservatives-Free: Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo
This cult-classic shampoo cleans out everything clinging to your hair from the swimming pool, like chlorine and the buildup of grunge refuses to wash off. It helps retain your hair’s moisture as well as keep the greening effect of chlorinated water at bay. Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo helps hydrates the hair and imparts shine.
This ultra-mild, plant-based shampoo is infused with allantoin that prevents scalp irritation and inflammation,while rice protein smoothes the hair cuticles and improves the shine and texture of hair. Pro vitamin B5 helps fight the adverse effects of the pool’s impurities on your hair. Flax protein acts as a conditioner to nurture your hair and keep it hydrated. Also, it uses mild surfactant technology that offers foam-boosting properties. Many reviewers have highly recommended this product for making their hair look visibly shinier, healthier, and knot-free.
Key Ingredients: Allantoin, Provitamin B5, Rice protein, Flax protein
Pros
- Restorative
- Scalp-soothing
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
Cons
- Defects in the pump may be an issue.
"This shampoo effectively removes chlorine and mitigates mineral discoloration in the hair. It's been a game-changer for both my daughter's swim-damaged hair and my color-treated locks. It leaves the hair soft and manageable."
3. Best For Color-Treated Hair: UltraSwim Chlorine-Removal Shampoo
If you are looking for the best affordable option in chlorine removal shampoos, go for Ultra Swim Chlorine-Removal Shampoo without a second thought. It eliminates chlorine as well as copper deposits from your hair effectively. This shampoo is infused with vitamin E that helps support a healthy scalp by reducing free radical damage. It also has aloe vera that help keep your hair moisturized, healthy, and soft. It also gets rid of the pungent chlorine smell from your hair, even if you have been in the pool multiple times. You can use this shampoo on permed, relaxed, chemically treated, or color-treated hair. For best results, use the Ultra Swim Conditioner right after this shampoo and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing your hair. It treats dry, damaged hair and prevents split ends. It aids in hair detox and revitalization.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Aloe vera
Pros
- Effective after just one wash
- Ideal for daily use
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- Strong fragrance
"This hand exerciser is very useful for those with mild arthritis or recovering from an injury. The marked resistance levels suit varying strengths and are also useful for tracking future progress. It doubles as a soothing distraction during stress. While fitting fingers into it can be tricky, it's a handy tool for maintaining hand function."
Caution4. Best For Daily Use: ExerShield After Swim 2-In-1 Shampoo And Body Wash
This scientifically proven shampoo cancels out the damaging effects of chlorinated water on your hair and body. The sulfate-free formula cleanses the hair without drying it. It is enriched with 100% natural ingredients and non-synthetic oils that help remove chlorine odor and restore natural moisture. The nourishing benefits of organic aloe vera, vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5, and jojoba help soothe and moisturize the hair and skin. You can also use this body wash-cum-shampoo daily. This product is free of animal testing, making it a safe bet not just for your skin but for the little bunnies out there too!
Key Ingredients: Organic Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Pro vitamin B5, and Jojoba
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Safe for colored hair
- Scented
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Watery consistency
"This is a multipurpose star product that is a post-swim staple. It has been keeping my skin less dry and is great for my hair. It takes care of the chlorine dryness and hardness. It has a light consistency that is easy to use. Follow up with a conditioner for that additional softness."
5. Best For Curly Hair: Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo
If you are looking for the best clarifying shampoo for your curly hair, Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo can be a great choice. It works gently on your hair and retains natural moisture. The rich blend of citrus extracts such as lemon, grapefruit, and orange fruit extract helps break down and remove chlorine residue from your hair without drying it.
Key Ingredients: Extracts of Lemon, Grapefruit, Orange
Pros
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Ideal for curly hair
Cons
- Citrus scent
6. Best Vegan: Ion Swimmer’s Shampoo
Ion Swimmer’s Shampoo is a plant-based, organic shampoo for green hair caused by chlorinated water. It works wonders on your hair to restore its gloss, softness, and manageability in just a few washes. It helps remove all mineral buildup like chlorine in your hair after a long session of swimming in the pool. The moisturizers in it give your hair back its lost health and volume.
Key Ingredients: Linseed extracts
Pros
- 100% Vegan
- Sulfate-free
- Surfactants-free
- Safe for all hair types
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- May make your hair rough
7. Best For Sensitive Skin: Solpri Swim And Sport Shampoo & Body Wash
The key ingredient in this chlorine-removing shampoo, vitamin C, can neutralize chlorine in just one use. Solpri Swim And Sport Shampoo & Body Wash can break down the chlorine on your hair and eliminate odor and itching. It also contains nourishing ingredients such as aloe vera, MSM, and vitamin E to keep your hair moisturized. The conditioning effect of the 12 amino acids in this specialist-approved shampoo has a soothing effect on your hair and scalp.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Aloe vera, MSM, Vitamin E
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Dye-free
- No synthetic fragrance
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Safe for color-treated hair
Cons
- None
"This product takes care of my skin and hair after enjoying a good pool session. It prevents the chlorine irritation and itchiness and also protects my hair from the damage. It also eliminates post-pool odor. The formula lathers best with a puff or sponge and might leave the hair and skin feeling a bit dry. It works well even for my color-treated hair and does not affect the vibrancy of the shade."
8. Best pH-Balanced: Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream
Get instant results with this clarifying shampoo from Redken. Its creamy formula is effective in removing product buildups, hard water minerals like chlorine, and excess oil with just one wash. Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream is formulated with Redken’s cleansing complex, which is a blend of apple fruit, sugar cane, camellia leaf, and lemon fruit extracts that help remove product buildup and pollution from the hair. It purifies and refreshes the hair instantly.
Key Ingredients: Redken’s cleansing complex
Pros
- Effective results in just one use
- pH-balanced formula
- Safe to use on color-treated hair
- Suitable for all hair types
Cons
- May make hair greasy
9. Best Deep Cleansing Formula: Moroccanoil Clarifying Shampoo
This is a highly concentrated clarifying shampoo from Moroccan oil. Its deep cleansing formula helps to remove buildups, hard water mineral deposits, and impurities from your hair. Moroccan oil Clarifying Shampoo is infused with keratin that improves hair elasticity and strength while restoring its moisture. Argan and avocado oils moisturize and prevent dryness. Argan oil, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fats, nourish and restore damage to hair. Plus, lavender, chamomile, and jojoba extracts also help in strengthening and nourishing hair. Many reviewers on Amazon felt that this product helped to breathe back life into their mane. This product is highly recommended if you have frequent exposure to pool water.
Key Ingredients: Keratin, Argan and Avocado oils, Lavender, Chamomile, Jojoba extracts
Pros
- Color-safe
- Scented
- Sulfate-free
- Phosphate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 2,066 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
10. Best For Brittle Hair: Zealios Swim & Sport Shampoo
Zealios Swim & Sport Shampoo is a shampoo for swimmers’ hair. It is the best shampoo for pool swimmers as well as those who love to take a dip in the sea. This chlorine removal shampoo is formulated with vitamin B which strengthens and revitalizes dry and brittle hair and also helps prevent split ends. Aloe vera in the formula has proven efficacy in soothing and hydrating the scalp.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin B
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Gentle for daily use
- Scented
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May dry out your hair
"After regular swims, this shampoo effectively clarifies and removes chlorine without drying out the hair. I also like the light, pleasant citrus scent. It is essential for maintaining hair health for frequent swimmers, but a follow-up conditioner is necessary for the post-wash roughness."
11. Best Sun Protection: Kerastase Bain Apres Soleil Shampoo
Kerastase Bain Apres Soleil Shampoo is enriched with coconut water that helps hydrate the hair and soothes the scalp. It also has vitamin E that supports a healthy scalp. This after-sun shampoo can effectively remove chlorine, salt, and other residues from the hair and restore the smoothness of hair.
Key Ingredients: Coconut water and Vitamin E
Pros
- Ideal for color-treated, damaged hair
- Scented
- Ideal for sun protection
Cons
- None
12. Best For Preventing Buildup: Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three
This clarifying shampoo from Paul Mitchell can keep your hair from turning chlorine green. The deep cleansing formula works effectively and removes chlorine, iron, bromine, and other pool minerals from your hair. It is ideal for competitive swimmers and helps prevent future buildup. Use a deep conditioner after using this shampoo to prevent dryness and protect your hair from further chlorine damage.
Pros
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Ideal for all skin types
- Ideal for daily use to cleanse residues from styling products
Cons
- Unpleasant scent
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 7,056 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
13. Best Hydrating Shampoo: TRIHARD Swimmers Shampoo
Swimming can be easy and stress-free when you apply TRIHARD Extra Boost Swimmers Shampoo. This product cleanses the scalp of dirt and eliminates the adverse effects of chlorine and other pool chemicals. It also eliminates post-swimming dryness and gives your hair a smooth texture. It contains natural ingredients such as aloe vera, red algae, and dead sea minerals to keep your hair strong and shiny. It also contains essential oils, such as shea oil and jojoba oil, to prevent your hair from itching and getting damaged. It is a great product for those who swim frequently and want to effectively remove chlorine from hair and protect it from premature thinning or dullness.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Prevents itching
- Hydrates dry hair
- Eliminates pool odors
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Alcohol-free
- GMO-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gentle on hair
- Refreshing smell
Cons
- None
"This swimmers' shampoo has a very good scent that lingers in my hair. It also has a softening effect on my hair. It's gentle on my sensitive scalp, lathers well, and a little goes a long way. It's very refreshing, especially after a swim. This leaves my hair healthy after each pool session."
14. Best pH Balancing Formula: Truss Miracle Summer Shampoo
Truss Miracle Summer Shampoo is a moisturizing sun protection shampoo. It contains UV filters to protect your hair from sun damage and prevent your hair color from fading. This summer shampoo also protects your hair from chlorine and salt damage. It is enriched with keratin, which is composed of 18 amino acids and helps in strengthening chlorine-damaged hair. Creatine that helps moisturize and protect the hair, and collagen restores hair elasticity. This chlorine removal shampoo is also infused with pro-vitamin B5 which helps in moisture retention and prevents split ends. The pH-balanced formula of this shampoo works on hair cuticles, restores moisture, and keeps your hair healthy, shiny, and manageable.
Key Ingredients: Keratin, Pro-Vitamin B5, Collagen, Creatine, Menthol
Pros
- pH balancing formula
- Color-safe
- Suitable for all hair types, hair colors
- Salt-free
- Gentle for daily use
- UV protection
Cons
- None
"This is my constant companion to the beach or the pool. It leaves my hair soft, shiny, and manageable. It hydrates my scalp and strands and also gives the hair a nice shine. The formula also protects my hair from sun damage."
15. Best For Blonde Hair: Peter Coppola Legacy Keratin Concept Clarifying Shampoo
Use this clarifying shampoo right after your swimming session to keep your hair protected from the chlorine odor. Peter Coppola Legacy Keratin Concept clarifying shampoo is perfect for you if you swim regularly in a chlorinated pool. This high-performance clarifying shampoo has a pH value of 8 to cancel out the toughest environmental buildup in your hair. It is infused with keratin that improves hair elasticity and strength and vitamin B5 that helps in moisture retention of hair. Swimmers prefer this professional-grade shampoo because it also eliminates excess oil from their hair and scalp.
Key Ingredients: Keratin, Vitamin B5
Pros
- Versatile
- Color-safe
- Gentle for daily use
- Ideal for gray or blonde hair
Cons
- None
"This shampoo lives up to its promises! The cleansing is effective and the formula has a pleasant scent. I like that the product is aware of silicone allergies and provides itch-free results. It gently removes the dirt and oil from the strands and scalp and is a weekly staple."
Wondering how to use chlorine removal shampoos to get their maximum benefits? Here’s how.
How To Use Chlorine Removal Shampoo
Chlorine removal shampoos are specially formulated to remove chlorine, its associated odor, and that green tint from your hair.
- For this, you should wash your hair thoroughly with a chlorine removal shampoo immediately after you get out of the swimming pool.
- Massage shampoo into your hair and scalp and let it sit for a minute before rinsing it out from your hair.
- Use a deep conditioner that is suitable for your hair type to prevent dryness and hair tangling.
- If you have color-treated hair, look for shampoos with color-safe options.
Pro Tip:
Before you enter the pool, wet your hair with fresh water so that it absorbs less chlorine.
Not every shampoo works well on swimmers’ hair to remove chlorine, mineral buildup, and pungent odor. Check out the next section to pick the best chlorine removal shampoo to get the best results.
How To Choose The Best Chlorine Removal Shampoo – Buying Guide
- Ingredients
Never forget to check the ingredients of a swimmers’ shampoo. They usually contain proteins, minerals, vitamins, and aloe vera. Vitamins A, B, C, and E are included in certain shampoos to fix hair cracks and make it stronger. Protein-rich shampoos work on your hair follicles and cuticles to avert serious metal build-up. Aloe vera soothes your hair and scalp. Choose the best swimmers’ shampoo that does not contain sulfates, gluten, parabens, or formaldehyde that leads to dry, itchy scalp.
- Moisturizers
Once the chlorine and heavy metals are removed from your hair, you need something that will soothe and moisturize your hair to undo the salt damage. The essential nourishing ingredients in a good shampoo are vitamin E, aloe vera, and other natural oils. They help fight dryness and brittleness to keep your hair hydrated.
- Hair Growth
Some pool chemicals can slow down or even stop your hair from growing. It is a serious concern if you are a swimmer with long hair. Your hair will not only be dry, thin, and brittle, but it will stop growing to replace the lost hair. Therefore, you need to look for a shampoo that is rich in nutrients to repair hair damage and protect it from the heavy metals and chlorine in the pool water. Make sure your shampoo contains proteins, anti-oxidants, and vitamins to fix damaged hair and boost protection.
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In Chlorine Removal Shampoos
The shampoos listed above contain chelating agents that can keep your hair clean and fresh and aid the removal of chlorine from your scalp. Check out the infographic below for a list of ingredients to look for while shopping, so you pick the best shampoo for you!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Whether swimming or washing your hair with hard water, the chlorine in water turns your hair brittle, dry, and knotted. These shampoos are categorized under Swimming essentials. In addition, it strips off the natural oil, making the hair lifeless. Unlike regular shampoo, chlorine removal shampoo removes the minerals that accumulate in the tresses after bathing in the pool or with hard water. Try the TRISWIM Shampoo for daily use to repair damaged hair and maintain the overall hair health. Alternatively, try the Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo for a deep cleanse to get rid of product buildup and chlorine residue in the hair. You can also try the Redken Detox Hair Cleansing Cream to strengthen and refresh your hair while adding shine. Besides cleaning your scalp and hair, these shampoos can also nourish your hair and keep the hair hydrated. So it is ideal to invest in chlorine removal shampoos formulated with powerful nourishing ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E. However, consider shampoos free from harmful chemicals and avoid shampoos if the fragrance is unpleasant. Conduct a patch test before incorporating any shampoo into your routine to check for allergies. You may also pair these shampoos with deep conditioners to ensure your locks stay healthy and nourished.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should swimmers shampoo every day?
If you are a regular swimmer, then switch to regular shampoos over clarifying shampoos about once a week. Daily usage of clarifying shampoos is not recommended as they can dry out your hair.
Does swimming in chlorine water make your hair turn green?
Chlorine alone does not make your hair green when you swim in chlorinated water. The copper and chlorine together build a thin film that sticks to your hair, making it green. Exposure to chlorine and metals makes your hair lose its natural oils and color.
Does wearing a swim cap help keep chlorine out of your hair?
Yes, it does. Swimming caps keep your hair from getting wet and soaked in the chlorine-treated pool water. They will add one layer of protection to your hair. If you are a swimmer, wet your hair first under a shower and then wear a swim cap. You can even apply a little conditioner before wearing the cap to keep your hair protected in the water.
I heard putting shampoo or oil in my hair before I swim will help—true?
Yes, applying oil keeps your hair a little protected before you get into the swimming pool. Take a shower before swimming to rinse off the deodorant and sweat from your skin or hair so that it takes less chlorine and pool water when your hair is already soaked.
Do chlorine shampoos affect colored hair?
A few anti-chlorine shampoos do not work well on colored hair. Check the label to find out if the shampoo is safe for color-treated hair.
What happens if you don’t wash the chlorine out of your hair?
The chemicals in the pool can remove natural oils from the hair and make it dry. It will lead to split ends and damage.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Oyendrila Kanjilal is passionate about hair care. In this article, she has reviewed and curated a list of the best shampoos for swimmers. She has picked products specifically formulated to hydrate dry, brittle hair and contain cleansing ingredients to prevent scalp buildup. In addition, she has carefully checked online feedback and the brand websites to pick products that can prevent the green tint and chemical odor you often get after spending time in swimming pools.
Read full bio of Beurena Johnson
Read full bio of Oyendrila Kanjilal
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Eshna Das
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.