It is still spring and full of its long days, as well as the first hints of summertime heat. And what better way to take advantage of these rising temperatures than by splashing around in a cool dip into the pool? But keep in mind, while this kind of escape from heat is ideal in swimming, the same may not be said about your hair.Chlorine, the same stuff that makes pools sanitary and bacteria-free, can be ruthless on your hair—removing natural oils, drying out your locks, and even turning lighter hair a dreaded greenish color. If you've ever emerged from the pool with your hair feeling brittle, knotted, or just. wrong, you're not crazy. The damage is real.But first, before you stop using the pool completely, good news is there! Using some expert-endorsed preventative measures, you can continue with your swimming routines without concern over hair damage by chlorine. We asked Dr. Priyanka Sharma, who's an experienced dermatologist as well as hair transplant surgeon, to analyze how chlorine hurts your locks and divulge the ultimate fix for hair to be firm, healthy, and ready for summers.How Chlorine Damages Hair?Chlorine is a potent disinfectant meant to destroy bacteria and ensure water quality, but its severe chemical composition doesn't mix well with hair health. Based on scientific research, chlorine robs the hair of its natural oils, causing:Drastic dryness and brittleness: Natural oils coat the hair shaft and keep the hair hydrated. Chlorine destroys these needed oils, making hair dry and more susceptible to breakage.Frizz and split ends: Dehydration weakens the strands of hair, resulting in frizz and split ends.Color fading and discoloration: Chlorine oxidizes the pigment melanin, which is responsible for the color of the hair. The oxidation can lead to a more rapid fading of natural or colored hair. Blondes can even turn green because chlorine interacts with trace amounts of metals such as copper present in the water.Damaged hair structure: Chlorine degrades keratin, the protein giving hair strength and elasticity, increasing its vulnerability to damage and loss of thickness.Signs of Chlorine-Damaged HairIf you are a regular swimmer, it is worth being aware of the signs of chlorine damage from an early stage. Some of the most likely signs are:Hair that's rough or straw-like to touchMore tangling and reluctance to comb the hairReduced shine and lusterDryness which does not fade despite frequent conditioningBreakage and split ends occurring more oftenLuckily, there are a number of preventative measures and after-swim care methods that can assist in shielding your hair from the destructive influence of chlorine.Preventing and Dealing with Chlorine DamagePre-Swim Hair Protection Methods1. Pre-Wet Your HairBefore diving in, wet your hair with new, non-chlorinated water. Dermatologists say that pre-wetting hair diminishes its capacity for chlorine absorption because water-soaked strands are less permeable to chemicals.2. Use a Protective BarrierPre-swimming applications of leave-in conditioners or natural oils such as coconut or argan oil can place a barrier in the way that restricts the penetration of chlorine. These moisture-rich products seal in moisture with a protective film, keeping your hair from drying out too much.3. Use a Swim CapAlthough not always the height of fashion, a properly fitted swim cap will greatly minimize hair exposure to chlorinated water. Use silicone caps instead of latex ones, as they create a tighter seal and are less damaging to hair.Post-Swim Hair Care Routine4. Rinse Immediately After SwimmingThe longer the chlorine remains on your hair, the more it damages it. Rinse with clean water as soon as you get out of the pool to wash away lingering chlorine before it can attach to hair proteins.5. Apply a Chlorine-Removing ShampooSpecialized shampoos that are designed to strip chlorine are a lifesaver for swimmers. These shampoos have chelating agents that attach to chlorine and other mineral buildup, lifting them out of the hair. Use shampoos with vitamin C or EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) to counteract chlorine exposure.6. Deep Condition RegularlyTo combat the drying effects of chlorine, include a deep conditioning treatment in your regimen at least weekly. Hair masks containing keratin, biotin, and shea butter replenish lost moisture and restore hair strength. 7. Restrict Heat StylingChlorine-damaged hair is already weakened, so exposing it to additional stress from heat styling can accelerate breakage. Minimize the use of curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers, opting for air-drying when possible.Expert-Approved Products for Chlorine-Damaged HairDr. Sharma recommends the following products to protect and repair chlorine-exposed hair:Pre-Swim Leave-In Treatment: A silicone-based leave-in conditioner to coat the hair shaft.Chlorine-Removing Shampoo: A clarifying shampoo with vitamin C to eliminate chlorine buildup.Hydrating Hair Mask: A weekly deep conditioning treatment with keratin and natural oils to replenish moisture.Serum or Oil Treatment: Argan or coconut oil used after washing to seal in moisture and guard against future damage.Chlorine damage is indeed a risk for regular swimmers, but by having the right prevention methods and hair care plan in place, you can spend your time in the pool without compromising the health of your hair. By pre-wetting your hair, employing protective products, and adopting a disciplined post-swim routine, you can reduce chlorine damage and have your hair appear healthy, robust, and lively.So the next time you go swimming in the pool, take a few extra precautions to protect your hair—you'll be glad you did.Dr. Priyanka Sharma is Director and Chief Dermatologist & Hair Transplant Surgeon at V6 Clinics in India