You've got your swimsuit shopping all wrapped up. Perhaps you stuck with one-pieces or mixed a few bikinis in there. Regardless, there's one accessory you also need to splurge on to prepare for pool season, assuming you've already also stocked up on sunscreen. We're talking about clarifying shampoos. You need at least one in your life to counteract the damage caused by chlorine. Luckily, there are several stellar options out there.
How does chlorine damage hair?
The fact is chlorine can really do a number on your hair. It makes your strands weak and dry, leading to breakage while stripping sebum away. Then there's the dreaded green tinge. A definite no-no, especially for people with already colored manes.
What about salt water?
If you routinely spend almost full days at the beach, salt water can definitely have an impact. The combination of salt and water turns into a saline solution that makes your hair dry and gritty. It can also impact your locks' natural oils.
How do clarifying shampoos work?
The formulas banish buildup in addition to chlorine and salt. Making them great ways to refresh your hair after a day in the pool or a natural body of water. Look for ones that also moisturize to make your strands softer. Most shampoos even have clarifying conditioners to complete the regimen.
Scroll down to shop the best clarifying shampoos.
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three Chlorine Removing Cleanser, $15.50 at Ulta Beauty
Paul Mitchell's clarifying shampoo will kick chlorine to the curb. Along with minerals and buildup. It has a refreshing zesty pink grapefruit scent and even strengthens strands.
OUAI Detox Shampoo, $32 at Sephora
Even your locks need a detox. Especially after swimming. Enter this best clarifying shampoo that relies on apple cider vinegar to clean your hair. It's also color-safe thanks to hydrolyzed keratin. Consider the rosy aroma with notes of bergamot, lychee, cedarwood and white musk a big bonus.
UltraSwim Moisturizing Formula Chlorine Removal Shampoo, $8.39 at Target
Worried that stripping the chlorine will strip moisture from your hair? Calm down. This formula is super gentle and can be used every day since its lineup of vitamin E, aloe and protective conditioners nourish every time you lather up. That pesky chlorine odor will also disappear.
Davines SOLU Shampoo, $35 at Davines
In addition to removing chlorine, this pick also rescues hair from all the residue styling products leave behind. The formula refreshes your scalp and your hair with Valtellina buckwheat extract that's rich in proteins, antioxidants, amino acids and mineral salts. It also adds softness and shine.
Aveda Sun Care Hair and Body Cleanser, $32 at Aveda
Corn-derived chelator gently gets rid of chlorine, salt and product residue. There's also tamanu oil along with organic coconut oil to maintain moisture levels. Plus, it's color-safe.
TriSwim Shampoo, $57.60 at SwimOutlet.com
The top choice of United States Masters Swimming, Aqua Exercise Association and Masters Swimming Canada, this chlorine removal shampoo also banishes bromine, salt water and hard water minerals. It helps hydrate with moisturizing aloe vera, pro-vitamin B5 and botanicals. There's even a fresh lime and mango scent.
Ouidad Water Works Clarifying Shampoo, $24 at Ulta Beauty
Ouidad's formula works great on curly manes. It nixes residues, hard water deposits and chlorine courtesy of cleansing fruit acids. Meanwhile, combined citrus extract enhances both body and shine.
Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo, $17.98 at Malibu C
Remove copper and chlorine in one wash with this best clarifying shampoo. The formula is gentle and effective without relying on harsh ingredients. It retains hair's natural oils for ultimate hydration and shine.
