The 28 Best Shampoos and Conditioners for Swimmers
Products
Considered
Hours
of Research
Reviews
Examined
You’ve noticed that your hair smells like chlorine and feels crunchy and dry after you go swimming.
Even after you wash your hair, it doesn’t go back to normal.
It’s because you’re not using one of the best shampoos for swimmers reviewed in this article.
That’s how swimmers take care of their hair.
AquaGuard Pre-Swim Hair Defense
- AquaGuard Pre-Swim Hair Defense
- Contains panthenol and sweet almond oil
- Packed with nutrients from shea butter
UltraSwim Dynamic Duo Repair Shampoo and Conditioner
- Perfect for permed and color-treated hair
- Packed with vitamins, especially vitamin E
- Infused with aloe vera
TRISWIM Chlorine Removal Swimmers Shampoo
- Based on organic botanical extracts
- Works great with dandruff and itchiness
- Packed with vitamins and aloe vera extracts
What kind of shampoo gets chlorine out?
You might be tempted to wash with a clarifying shampoo, but that might make the problem worse.
Chlorine makes your hair more porous.
It can also change the color.
As a result, your hair feels like straw and turns green or orange. It’s more fragile and prone to breakage.
A clarifying shampoo might dehydrate your hair further.
One trick is to wet your hair with fresh water before you get in the pool (1). Or you might use a pre-swim protectant or wear a swim cap.
But the best bet is to use a chlorine removal shampoo made for swimmers. It neutralizes chlorine, removes the residue, and hydrates the hair.
Some chlorine removal shampoos utilize vitamin C to counteract chlorine.
If you swim regularly, apply a deep-conditioning hair mask at least once a month. You might even need it weekly.
Top Shampoos and Conditioners for Swimmers
Now, let’s help you find the best shampoo and conditioner for after swimming.
1. AquaGuard Pre-Swim Hair Defense
Product Overview
If you prefer to use your regular shampoo and conditioner, try AquaGuard before you get in the water.
It works for chlorinated water or saltwater.
It protects hair color (even if it’s a color treatment) and defense against brittleness.
- Infused with sweet almond oil
- Contains panthenol and glycerin
- Packed with beneficial vitamins
- Has panthenol and aloe vera
It’s a leave-in conditioner that you apply to damp hair.
Let it work for three minutes minimum before you enter the pool or swim in the ocean.
It has an almond fragrance and a lightweight texture.
I checked the ingredients and didn’t see parabens. What I found was a blend of moisturizers and conditioners like glycerin, aloe, sweet almond oil, panthenol, shea butter, and silicone.
Pros
- Leave-in formula
- Works great for saltwater
- Locks in the moisture
The Cons
- The package might be broken
2. UltraSwim Dynamic Duo Repair Shampoo and Conditioner
Product Overview
Perhaps the best swimmer’s wellness shampoos for curly hair is this one by UltraSwim.
It removes chlorine and copper deposits from the hair. That’s good news for blondes as it’s copper that causes the green cast.
Then, it moisturizes with aloe and Vitamin E.
- Perfect for permed and color-treated hair
- Contains high level of vitamin E
- Infused with aloe vera
- Great formula for blondes
As a result, your hair stays soft and healthy and doesn’t smell like the pool.
You can use it on permed or color-treated styles.
For the best outcome, be sure to apply the conditioner and let it work for a couple of minutes before you rinse.
Pros
- Removes the chlorine from hair
- Works great with copper and other metals
- Makes your hair soft and healthy
The Cons
- Doesn’t smell so great
3. TRISWIM Chlorine Removal Swimmers Shampoo
Product Overview
TRISWIM’s chlorine removal shampoo and conditioner are very popular among athletes.
They remove chlorine, bromine, minerals from hard water, and salt from seawater.
You’re less likely to end up with an itchy scalp as they defend against dandruff.
- Packed with beneficial vitamins
- Based on botanical extracts
- Infused with aloe vera
- Leaves a nice, fruity smell
Next, they strengthen the hair with vitamins, botanical extracts, and aloe.
They leave your hair as clean and soft as if you’d never gone swimming.
What’s more, the fruity mango lime fragrance appeals to just about everyone.
Neither product has parabens or gluten, and both are cruelty-free.
Pros
- Defends agains dandruff
- Removes chlorine and bromine
- Works great with both hard water and seawater
The Cons
- The packaging might be broken
4. TRISWIM Swimmers Conditioner
Product Overview
Never neglect the conditioner even if you use a swimmer’s shampoo.
It’s essential to keep your hair shiny and healthy.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
- Contain keratin
- Infused with aloe vera
- High levels of vitamins
This one is fortified with keratin and other nutrients.
Pros
- Deeply hydrates your scalp
- Protects against heat and UV damage
- Improves manageability and seals the cuticle
The Cons
- Not for oily scalps
5. TRISWIM Kids Chlorine Removal Swimmer Shampoo
Product Overview
Even kids can benefit from swimmer shampoo.
This one has the same benefits as the adult version. It removes minerals from hard water, salt, and chlorine. It also prevents dandruff.
- Works great for kids
- Packed with beneficial vitamins
- Contains aloe vera
- Infused with watercress and chamomile
Aloe, Vitamin A, and pro-vitamin B5 along with watercress and chamomile, strengthen the scalp and hair.
Happily, the formula is cruelty-free and doesn’t have parabens or gluten in it.
Pros
- Provides the needed nutrients
- Removes minerals from hard water
- Ideal for all hair types
The Cons
- Dries your hair if not properly used
6. Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo
Product Overview
This shampoo doesn’t contain harsh sulfates, which can cause more dryness.
Instead, it cleanses impurities with a mild, moisturizing formula.
- Doesn’t contain harsh sulfates
- Infused with vitamin C
- Mild formula for every day usage
It neutralizes chlorine with vitamin C, too.
Pros
- Neutralizes the chlorine
- Works great with seawater
- Nam ac vulputate nibh.
- Perfect for dry hair
The Cons
- Contains silicones
7. Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Conditioner
Product Overview
This paraben-free conditioner is also vegan. It was developed by a company that’s created wellness solutions since 1985.
- Paraben-free conditioner
- Completely vegan formula
- Prevents tangled hair
It’s just what you need to prevent gummy, crunchy, tangled hair.
Pros
- Protects against hard water
- Removes salt and other minerals
- Deeply moisturizes your hair
The Cons
- Has silicones
8. Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Hair Remedy
Product Overview
If your hair is fried from swimming, this treatment will repair it.
It removes hard water buildup as well.
- Packed with antioxidants
- Works perfect with hard water
- Great repairing properties
The antioxidant-rich formula fixes discoloration and dryness. You should notice a difference after the first use.
Pros
- Makes dry and weak hair healthy again
- Leaves a nice scent
- Provides natural shine all day long
The Cons
- Smell filled with overwhelming perfume
9. Malibu C Miracle Repair Wellness Reconstructor
Product Overview
But the best deep conditioner for chlorine-damaged hair is right here.
It smells like an orange Dreamsicle, and it’s packed with plant protein.
- Perfect for fine hair
- Packed with plant proteins
- Infused with wheat extracts
- Doesn’t weight down
Use it to add luminosity to dull hair and reinforce brittle strands.
Pros
- Nourishes hair follicles
- Deelply cleanses and hydrates
- Detoxifies your scalp and hair
The Cons
- Doesn’t help with heat damage
10. Solpri Swimmers Chlorine Swim Shampoo Body Wash and Conditioner
Product Overview
Here are two products for your whole body. The shampoo doubles as bath soap.
That’s really handy as it neutralizes chlorine everywhere. Neither your skin nor your scalp will itch.
In fact, the manufacturer offers a 100% no-itch guarantee or your money back. You don’t even need to return the bottles.
- High levels of vitamin C
- Deep cleansing effect
- Organic plant oils
- Works great with sensitive skin
The shampoo contains vitamin C to get rid of chlorine, bromine, and salt. Moreover, it’s safe for color-treated hair and sensitive skin.
Then, there are organic plant oils and aloe in the conditioner to seal in moisture.
Both the shampoo and conditioner are free of sulfates, dyes, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Pros
- Leaves your hair silky smooth and soft
- Penetrates deeply into your skin and hair
- NProvides a nice scent
The Cons
- Strong perfume
11. ExerShield 2 in 1 Chlorine Body Wash and Chlorine Shampoo for Swimmers
Product Overview
Here’s another body wash/shampoo that cancels out the effects of chlorine on your body and hair.
If you have sensitive skin, I have good news for you. It’s free of drying sulfates and artificial fragrances and dyes.
- Safe for color-treated hair
- Can be used daily
- Works great with sensitive skin
It’s also safe for color-treated hair.
You can wash with it every day if you need to.
The manufacturer offers a refund if you’re not completely satisfied with the results.
Pros
- Repairs and prevents future damage
- Reduces frizziness and dryness
- Does a great deal moisturizing
The Cons
- Not for oily curls
12. Exershield After Swim Fortifying Hair Conditioner
Product Overview
After you wash, let this conditioner work for up to five minutes before you rinse.
It works wonders on your hair with organic plant extracts and natural oils.
- Infused with aloe vera
- Organic plant extracts only
- Contains lavender and chamomile
- Infused with rosehip seed oil
For example, the base ingredient is organic aloe juice, not water. Then there’s lavender, Roman chamomile, rosehip seed oil, and wheat protein, among others.
Fortunately, there are no parabens or phthalates.
Pros
- Deeply moisturizing effect
- Hydrates your scalp and hair
- Leads to a silky smooth hair
The Cons
- Contains some chemicals
13. Babo Botanicals Purifying Swim & Sport 2-in-1 Shampoo
Product Overview
Save room in your gym bag by bringing just one bottle with you.
This body wash and shampoo is hypoallergenic and mild enough to use daily. You can even use it on children.
It’s also reef-friendly to avoid harming wildlife in rivers, lakes, and oceans.
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Infused with aloe vera
- Contains cucumber and chamomile
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
Not only does it wash away chlorine, but it also works on salt, pollution and everyday dirt.
Some of the key ingredients include aloe, cucumber, chamomile, and calendula. Even better, the bulk of the formula is organic.
Pros
- Moisturizes and reduces itchiness
- Strengthens your hair with protein
- Seals the moisture inside your hair
The Cons
- Has silicones
14. Ion Swimmer’s Shampoo
Product Overview
Like many of its competitors, this shampoo is sulfate-free and vegan. It’s okay for all hair types.
It clarifies chlorine and mineral buildup and defends against damage.
- Works great for all types of hair
- Uses no harsh chemicals
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
Unless you’re concerned about sodium chloride or artificial fragrances and dyes, it should be perfectly adequate for your needs.
Pros
- Deeply moisturizes your hair
- Provides powerful nutrients
- Repairs split ends and prevents breakage
The Cons
- Can be too oily
15. Ion Swimmer’s Conditioner
Product Overview
Here’s the rinse-out conditioner that goes along with the shampoo above.
It’s made without animal byproducts. The proteins and oils in it that repair hair come from plant sources.
- Made with no animal byproducts
- Infused with proteins
- High level of essential oils
Be aware that it’s lightweight, but it contains silicone.
Pros
- Makes your hair more manageable
- Eliminates impurities and dirt
- Detoxifies your scalp and hair
The Cons
- Contains high level of silicone
16. Ion Swimmer’s Leave-in Conditioner
Product Overview
Do your eyes glaze over when all the products seem the same?
Here’s one that’s different from the rest.
If you’ve never used leave-in conditioner before, now’s the time.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
- Protects against sun and chemicals
- Leave-in formula
Spray this onto damp hair before you get in the pool or out in the sun.
It guards against damage from chlorine, weather, and UV radiation.
What is that saying about “an ounce of prevention”? Well, you’ll need a lot less than an ounce of this conditioner to keep your hair in great shape.
Pros
- Cleanses and makes your hair smooth
- Prevents tangles in tight wavy hair
- Rejuvenates damaged hair
The Cons
- Has some chemicals
17. Newton Bay Swimmer’s Shampoo
Product Overview
This brand’s claim to fame is that a team of chemists designed the shampoo specifically for swimmers.
Not only will it rejuvenate your hair, but it also prevents problems in the future. Just give it a couple of minutes before you rinse it.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
- Contains high level of moisture
- Protects against harsh chemicals
If you’re familiar with the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG), you’ll be happy to know the shampoo has a rating of 1.7. It has no “red zone” components.
Unfortunately, it does have sodium laureth sulfate. But that’s the “milder” of the two harsh sulfates.
If you end up lesson thrilled with the results, the company offers a refund.
Pros
- Works great with fine wavy hair
- Moisturizes and hydrates your waves
- Reduces frizziness and dryness
The Cons
- Has sodium laureth sulfate
18. Newton Bay Swimmer’s Conditioner
Product Overview
Finish the job by applying this conditioner. It works for all hair types, including color-treated and curly.
Again, this is a product with a “safe” rating from the EWG.
- Infused with shea butter
- Contains abyssinian seed oil
- Has aloe vera and vitamin C
- Perfect for all types of hair
Highlights include vitamin C, shea butter, Abyssinian seed oil, aloe, and peppermint essential oil.
Pros
- Makes your hair hydrated
- Works well with split ends
- Incredible leave-in treatment
The Cons
- Has some chemicals
19. Reflect Sports H2O Swim Shampoo
Product Overview
Like many shampoos that repair damaged hair, this one has both wheat and silk amino acids plus keratin. These reinforce each strand so that the chlorine doesn’t make your hair porous and fragile.
It also has a UV absorber. If you swim outdoors, that’s useful. It’s like sunscreen for your hair.
- Perfect for very damaged hair
- Contains keratin
- Infused with silk amino acids
- Packed with beneficial vitamins
Furthermore, there are no sulfates in the bottle. The shampoo is a gentle cleanser that moisturizes as it works. But don’t forget the conditioner below.
Pros
- Repairs damaged hair
- Absorbs the UV
- Gently cleanses and removes chemicals
The Cons
- Has silicone
20. Reflect Sports H2O Swim Conditioner
Product Overview
Here’s the final step to keeping your hair healthy and strong.
While chamomile and rosemary soothe your scalp, amino acids and hazel seed oil make your locks shiny and soft.
- Infused with hazel seed oil
- Contains rosemary and chamomile
- Has silk amino acids
- Healthy and strong hair guaranteed
The formula also features fade protection for a while you’re out in the sun.
Pros
- Repairs damaged hair
- Protects against sun and fading
- Makes your locks shiny and soft
The Cons
- Has allergens
21. Reflect Sports H2O Pre Sun and Swim Protecting Gel
Product Overview
Just avoid the problem altogether with this gel. It’s like a leave-in conditioner that you apply before you go swimming.
Not only does it prevent chlorine and salt from wrecking your hair, but it also keeps the sun from fading the color.
- Works as a leave-in conditioner
- Protects against sun and fading
- Seals the cuticle
The formula seals the cuticle to keep moisture inside and chemicals out.
Additionally, unlike other similar products, this one works on wet or dry hair.
Pros
- Keeps the moisture in
- Prevents chlorine and salt from damaging
- Works on both wet and dry hair
The Cons
- Contains silicone
22. Aubrey Swimmers Shampoo
Product Overview
If you have blond or gray hair, take a closer look at the shampoo.
It clarifies by removing build-up and chemicals without stripping the hair.
- 75% organic and vegan formul a
- Doesn’t contain harsh chemicals
- Infused with roganic jojoba oil
- Contains high levels of quinoa proteins
Then, it restores moisture and softness with quinoa protein and organic jojoba oil.
The formula is 75% organic and vegan. It does not contain sulfates, nor phthalates, parabens, or gluten.
Pros
- Keeps harsh chemicals away
- Removes build-ups
- Works perfect with blond or gray hair
The Cons
- Doesn’t protect against seawater
23. Aubrey Swimmer’s Conditioner
Product Overview
I know, it’s a hassle to use conditioner when you’re in a hurry.
But this is one you won’t want to do without.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
- Contains only organic ingredients
- High level of vitamins
- Leaves anice, almond apricot scent
It’s packed with natural, organic ingredients and lacks chemicals that we all try to avoid.
Plus, it has a tasty almond apricot scent.
Pros
- Protects against chemicals
- Deeply moisturizes the scalp and hair
- Provides all needed nutrients
The Cons
- Contains silicone
24. Zealios Sulfate Free Shampoo & Conditioner
Product Overview
You might decide that this is the best shampoo for ocean water.
But it also washes away chlorine and sweat and grime. That’s probably because it was originally created for athletes.
- Works great with color-treated hair
- Originally created for athletes
- Deep cleansing and conditioning
- Mild citrus fragrance
It’s okay for chemically-processed and color-treated hair, and gentle enough to use daily.
The mild citrus fragrance appeals to women and men alike.
Pros
- Keeps harsh chemicals at bay
- Works perfect for ocean water
- Washes away the chlorine and salt
The Cons
- Can be to concentrated
25. Snip-its Natural Shampoo and Conditioner for Kids
Product Overview
Kids love pools. But then adults hate detangling their chlorinated hair.
Avoid the problem with a shampoo that cleanses chlorine and residue. Then it detangles and conditions with jojoba and panthenol.
- Infused with jojoba oil
- Contains panthenol
- Packed with beneficial vitamins
- No tear formula
It won’t cause tears, and it’s okay for toddlers, too.
In case you’re wondering, it smells like melons.
Pros
- Works great for kids
- Smells like melons
- Washes out all chemicals
The Cons
- Too mild for adults
26. Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three
Product Overview
If you go to the salon, chances are your stylist will use this clarifying shampoo to fix your chlorine green hair.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
- No harsh chemicals used
- Perfect for chlorine green hair
It gets rid of residue to make your tresses soft and shiny once more.
Pros
- Washes out all the impurities
- Takes care of your scalp
- Leaves your hair soft
The Cons
- Can be to harsh for sensitive skin
27. Paul Mitchell The Conditioner
Product Overview
The Conditioner is a leave-in product. You only need a small amount to comb through your hair.
Not only does it help with styling, but it also reduces frizz and static.
- Packed with beneficial nutrients
- Redudes frizz and static
- Leave-in formulation
- High level of essential oils
Most users say that they can even tell if they still have conditioner in their hair other than the fact that it’s extra soft and shiny.
Pros
- Makes your hair extra soft
- Suspendisse sollicitudin nec purus
- Adds shiness and volume
- Protects against harsh chemicals
The Cons
- Has no effect on salt
28. Aussie Moist Shampoo and Conditioner + 3 Minute Miracle
Product Overview
If you want a drugstore solution for swimmers hair, try the Aussie products.
- Packed with essential oils
- High level of vitamins
- Contains no harsh chemicals
The 3-minute miracle deep conditioner is especially helpful for repairing chlorine damage.
Pros
- Repairs chlorine damage
- Protects against harsh chemicals
- Washes away all the impurities
The Cons
- Doesn’t help with salt
Conclusion
Don’t let hair problems stop you from enjoying your time at the pool or on the beach.
The average shampoo and conditioner for swimmers aren’t any more expensive than regular products are.
Those of you who swim regularly will greatly benefit from them.
You’ll have healthier, stronger, softer, and shinier hair than you’ve ever had before.
If you found a new shampoo and conditioner that you love using, tell us about them in the comments below.
AquaGuard Pre-Swim Hair Defense
Formulated with aloe vera and silicone
Contains panthenol and sweet almond oil
Packed with nutrients from shea butter
Aida
Founder & Hair Beauty Specialist
I’m Aida and this is my blog where I write mostly about beauty and make up related stuff, but I like to spice it up a bit with lifestyle and photography posts. Or with whatever that comes to my mind. Hope you will enjoy the reading enough that we will ‘see’ each other more often!
Sources:
1. https://blog.arenaswim.com/us/just-for-women/6-hair-and-skin-care-tips-for-swimmers/ published September 23, 2016, accessed January 14, 2020
2. https://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/html/05231301/05231301.html accessed January 14, 2020