Prolonged exposure to chlorine can cause all sorts of damage to your hair, from frizzing and split-ends, to long-term issues such as dryness and an itchy scalp. Fortunately, there are a range of products available that are not only designed to remove chlorine from your hair after your swim, but claim to heal the damage it leaves behind.
Whether you want to apply a conditioner before you dive into the pool to prevent the damaging effects of chlorine, or invest in an after-care shampoo that will strengthen your hair, we’ve got you covered with a round-up of some of the best shampoos and conditioners that will keep your hair chlorine free.
These products have been picked based on a mixture of our own experiences, product knowledge and consumer reviews.
Best swim shampoos for chlorine
UltraSwim Chlorine Removal Shampoo
Made to be suitable for all hair types, including hair that’s been dyed or chemically treated, this shampoo is said to be gentle but effective. In fact, the brand says it's so gentle that it can also be used on children's hair.
It claims to remove the chlorine (and any pool odour) after one use, restoring and repairing any chlorine exposed hair. Due to the ingredients, which are rich in humectants, moisturisers, Vitamin E and aloe vera, it's designed to leave your hair soft and conditioned, and is light enough to use after every swim.
TRISWIM Moisturizing Chlorine Removing Shampoo For Swimmers
As well as tackling chlorine, TRISWIM also works to neutralise and remove bromine, salt water, hard water minerals and chemical odours from your hair, whether you’re on a daily swimming regimen, exploring wild waters, or simply lounging by the pool.
With an exotic mango and lychee scent, the shampoo is also said to hydrate and moisturise hair using aloe vera, vitamin A and pro vitamin B5.
Recommended by United States Masters Swimming and Canada Masters Swimming, it’s said to be a reliable go-to for the avid swimmer. Being paraben and gluten-free, and not tested on animals, you can use the product completely guilt-free.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three
Designed to remove chlorine build-up, Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three is also said to prevent that dreaded green hair, which can be caused by the chlorine mixing with the copper in the water and then attaching to the protein in your hair.
The product can be used after swimming or combined with condition treatments to reportedly also increase inner hair strength.
Joico K-Pak Clarifying Shampoo
Made for those who not only swim frequently but live in hard water areas, the Joico K-Pak Clarifying Shampoo aims to remove all traces of impurities from your hair, leaving it looking (and feeling) clean, healthy and vibrant.
It's said to not only reconstruct damaged air with its ingredients of amino acids, aloe and vitamin E, but also to protect the hair from further issues. Particularly helpful for those with heavily-styled hair, it's also claimed to allow for easy combing and improved manageability.
Aubrey Organics Swimmers Shampoo
Suitable for all hair types, this swimmers shampoo claims to normalise your hair’s pH, with a clean-rinsing formula that removes built-up impurities. The organic rice extract is said to work to remove chlorine and minerals, while the organic jojoba oil and quinoa protein deep-conditions and protects the hair.
It's also formulated to prevent discolouration of hair that has been exposed to chlorine or salt water and is said to leave you feeling fresh thanks to the almond apricot scent.
John Freida Detox & Repair
Infused with antioxidant-rich green tea and nourishing avocado oil, John Freida Detox & Repair is designed to get to work on dry and damaged hair, helping it be healthy while giving it a silky shine.
For optimal results, the brand suggests twinning this product with the Detox & Repair conditioner, which is said to assist with the immediate revitalisation of your hair.
Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
Said to be suitable for sensitive skin, the Aveeno Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo is a gentle cleanser that's reportedly clinically proven to relieve an itchy scalp. Made from skin-moisturising properties such as colloidal oats, and botanical ingredients, it hydrates the hair while removing any build-up.
Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Shampoo
For a gentle but thorough cleanse that aims to remove chlorine build-up from your hair while also protecting your skin, the Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Shampoo has a packed blend to help your hair.
Made with ingredients like Tea Tree Oil, Bamboo Charcoal and African Black Soap, it's said to soothe the skin while ridding your follicles of dirt and unwanted oils, allowing your strands to grow strong and healthy.
OGX Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
OGX has gone for a combination of classic and contemporary using an ancient remedy that’s been brought up to date with a luxe formulation, removing the build-up of unwanted oils to ensure your hair is clean, chlorine-free and cared for. There’s also the added bonus of a fresh and fruity fragrance.
What are the best conditioners for chlorine?
Ultra Swim Dry & Damaged Ultra Repair Conditioner
For a complete chlorine-removal treatment, the Ultra Swim shampoo can be combined with this repair conditioner. It aims to further restore chlorine exposed hair, fix overall damage, replenish lost moisture, and tackle any tangles and split ends. If applied before your swim, it can also reduce the amount of chlorine absorbed by your hair.
Philip Kingsley Swimcap Water Resistant Mask
An all-rounder, the Swimcap mask is formulated to both deeply condition hair and shield it from any damage once hair becomes vulnerable in chlorine or salt water.
Its formula is designed to help reduce breakage, as well as halt colour-fade and general dryness, while working to improve the elasticity and general bounce and shine of your hair.
Triswim Conditioner
Packed with mega-proteins such as keratin and nutrients, the Triswim conditioner is the official hair and skin product for United States Masters Swimming. It aims to leave your hair in its healthy and shiny state even after it’s been exposed to harsh elements such as chlorine, bromine, salt and sun, which naturally dry out your hair.
Free from animal testing, this product is both paraben-free and gluten-free, and is said to leave behind a natural peach and orange blossom scent.
Reef Anti Chlor Conditioner
An eco-conscious option, the Watery shampoo and conditioner combo is cruelty-free and vegan, and stored in a bottle that is made from 50% recycled PCR and 50% virgin plastic.
Once applied, it is designed to repair hair that has been damaged by chlorine, while working to detangle split ends and reduce dryness, ultimately strengthening and hydrating your hair.