Majority of us will be spending the long weekend cooling off at some of the most stylish watering holes in the city (make sure to check out our staycation edit) but while taking a dip in a pool feels like a much needed relief from the heat, your hair might have other thoughts.

Not to put a damper on you Eid Al Adha plans, but there are certain precautions you need to take if you’re diving head first into the chlorine-filled waters. It can leave your locks feeling dry and brittle as the chemical strips away your natural oils.

The last thing anyone wants after spending weeks in lockdown is to throw away all the hard work your hairdresser put in to get your mane back to it’s shiny, bouncy self. But, we also don’t want you to become a chlorine-phobe, so we have put together some experts tips, as well as a list of our summer-friendly products, to keep your hair in check throughout the weekend and beyond.

Rinse Rinse Rinse

Showers placed near the pools are not just for hygiene purposes, they are a great way to prep your hair. Why? There is only so much moisture your hair can take and it’s better for it to soak up the fresh water, leaving minimum space for the chlorine to take up. Why not run a lightweight oil through your hair after rinsing in order to further shield it from chemicals.

Protect it

If you’re applying SPF to your body, you should also use hair products with UVA and UVB filters that will guard it from the sun and chlorine.

Rise up

With so many amazing accessories on the market, it has never been a better time to play around with various updos. Clips, grips, slides, and scrunchies will make you feel poolside chic while keeping your hair out of the water. If you prefer to float around in the pool, keep your hair in a low bun or braid to prevent some of the chlorine soaking into your strands.

Post-pool wash

We know the sunshine made you feel lazy but it’s you have to summon the energy and give your hair a really good wash. Shampooing out all the chemicals is essential to the overall health of your hair, and if you want extra brownie points from your hairdresser you will include a deep hydrating mask into your routine at least once a week.

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Images: Supplied, main image Dana Hourani Instagram