Check out hair care tips for after exercise

Pay attention to hair health is a fundamental aspect about the practice of physical exercises . This is because training is responsible for stimulating and impacting the entire body, including hair.

According to experts consulted by CNN , the training itself does not directly harm the hair but some factors associated with physical activity can affect hair health, such as: sweat, friction, rubbing and chlorine (the latter in the case of swimming).

“Sweat can build up on the scalp, making hair more oily and promoting the appearance of dandruff and irritation. Wearing accessories such as caps, helmets or hair ties can cause friction and, eventually, hair breakage. If you also swim, chlorine can dry out and damage your hair. Using a swimming cap and specific products to protect against chlorine can be beneficial,” explains Sandra Perondi, trichologist at Mais Cabello.

To help treat your hair after any physical activity, it is essential to take care of it after practice. Find out more below.

How to care for your hair after physical exercise

According to Sandra, it is recommended to focus on the following hair care after any physical activity:

• Wash your scalp thoroughly: If possible, wash your hair shortly after your workout to remove sweat and accumulated residue. If you work out frequently, a daily shampoo may be a good option;
• Use conditioner properly: apply a conditioner that is suitable for your hair type and focuses on replenishing lost moisture. Concentrate on the ends and avoid applying directly to the scalp;
• Dry carefully: when drying your hair, avoid rubbing it with a towel, as this can cause frizz and breakage, gently press the towel against the strands to remove excess water;
• Detangle carefully: Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush specifically designed for wet hair to detangle your hair, starting at the ends and gradually working your way up to your scalp. This helps prevent breakage;
• Avoid excessive heat: if you need to use a hair dryer, use a warm temperature and use a heat protector; and
• Regular hydration: in addition to daily care, it is important to do regular hydration, such as hair masks, to keep your hair healthy and strong.

You should also be careful if your scalp becomes very oily after physical activity.

“When you notice that your scalp is very oily or irritated after training, you need to use specific products to balance oiliness and treat irritation, such as tonics or hair exfoliants,” highlights Sandra.

“We must wash the scalp well and not tie it up, especially if it is still wet. Let it dry naturally or with a dryer on a cold setting and without pulling it,” adds trichologist Ana Carina.

Ana also emphasizes that taking care of protecting your hair should be included in your daily routine, so measures focused on training will be enhanced.

“It is important to wash your hair frequently, not sleep with it or tie it up with wet hair, moisturize your hair with a mask two to four times a month, drink plenty of water, maintain a healthy diet, especially with lots of protein, as it strengthens your hair, and avoid excessive use of curling irons and straighteners, as well as chemical procedures such as straightening and highlights with bleach,” explains the professional.

What are the best accessories to use in your hair during training?

Sandra also suggests accessories to use in any workout-focused hairstyles. They are:

• Scrunchies: These are elastic bands covered in fabric that distribute pressure more evenly, reducing breakage and damage;
• Headband or headband: Headbands or fabric headbands are useful for keeping hair out of your face during training;
• Claw clips: These clips are great for quickly and easily securing hair, ideal for long, thick hair;
• Cap or bandana: wearing a cap can help absorb sweat and keep your hair in place, as long as it is made of breathable material that does not cause friction; and
• Hats and visors: For outdoor activities, hats and visors help protect your scalp and hair from the sun. Choose materials that allow ventilation to prevent sweat build-up.

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