CHLORINE SAFETY 101

Posted Jun 7, 2025, in

Summer in Greenville is sunny, hot, and full of pool days — but while you’re soaking up the Carolina sunshine, your hair might be soaking up something far less fun: chlorine. As much as we love a refreshing dip, chlorine can leave your strands dry, brittle, dull, and even discolored if you’re not protecting them properly.

At The Brass Bee, we want you to enjoy every lake day, pool party, and family vacation without sacrificing healthy, gorgeous hair. Here are our top stylist-approved tips for keeping your hair safe all summer long!

1. Start With a Pre-Pool Rinse (Your Secret Weapon)

Before hopping into the pool, rinse your hair with clean water. Wet hair absorbs less chlorine — it’s like giving your strands a little protective buffer.
SEO tip included: Greenville summers are humid, meaning hair is more porous. A pre-pool rinse helps seal the cuticle and reduce chlorine absorption.

2. Coat Your Hair in a Leave-In Conditioner

Think of a leave-in conditioner as sunscreen for your hair. A lightweight, salon-quality formula creates a barrier that prevents chlorine from penetrating deeply.

Look for products that include:

— Keratin
— Argan oil
— UV protection
— Hydrating botanicals

Your stylist at The Brass Bee can recommend the perfect formula based on your hair type.

3. Wear Your Hair Up to Reduce Exposure

Buns, braids, top knots—whatever your vibe is, keeping your hair secured helps minimize how much chlorine it absorbs. This is especially helpful for blondes, highlighted clients, and those with chemically treated hair.

4. Use a Clarifying Shampoo Weekly

Chlorine builds up on the hair shaft over the season. A weekly clarifying shampoo removes mineral deposits, greenish tones, and dulling residue.

Pro tip: Follow with a deep-conditioning mask to restore moisture. Clarifying without rehydrating can lead to dryness and breakage.

5. Book a Post-Vacation Detox Treatment

After a week at the beach or a long weekend at Lake Keowee, treat your hair to a salon-grade detox or glossing treatment. We offer services designed to:

— Remove chlorine and mineral buildup
— Restore softness and shine
— Balance your hair’s pH
— Revive highlights and color vibrancy

These services are especially important for Greenville blondes, who may see unwanted brassiness after chlorine exposure.

6. Protect Blonde & Color-Treated Hair More Carefully

Chlorine and color don’t play well together — especially blondes, coppers, and vivid tones.
Chlorine can:

— Turn blondes dull or greenish
— Strip vibrancy from reds
— Cause dryness and split ends
— Fade toner faster

Your stylist can recommend toning shampoos and masks that help keep your color bright all summer.

7. Rinse Immediately After Swimming

Even if you can’t shampoo right away, rinse your hair with fresh water as soon as you get out of the pool. This simple habit prevents chlorine from drying on your hair and creating buildup.

8. Schedule Regular Hydration Treatments

The Upstate SC sun + heat + chlorine is a triple threat to moisture. A monthly hydration or bond-repair treatment keeps your hair smooth, soft, and resilient throughout the season.

Our salon offers:

— Deep conditioning masks
— Bond-building treatments
— Shine/Gloss services
— Custom hydration therapies

These are perfect for swimmers, lake lovers, or anyone who spends lots of time outside during Greenville summers.

Enjoy Summer — Your Hair Just Needs a Little Love

Chlorine doesn’t have to ruin your hair this summer. With the right prep and after-care, you can protect your color, maintain your shine, and keep your hair healthy all season long.

If you’re ready for personalized recommendations or want to book a summer-safe hair treatment, our stylists at The Brass Bee are here to help you glow!