Pre & Post Workout Hair Care - 5 Essential Tips & Tricks

A workout is a great way to stay in shape, and nothing beats that amazing adrenaline rush every time you finish your routine. While exercising is, of course, 100% good for you, the truth is that it could lead to damaged hair. In fact, your regular workout routine can harm your hair in ways that you aren't even aware of.

No more living in ignorance, especially when it comes to damaged hair and ruining those tresses you care so much about. Read on and discover just how working out can adversely affect your hair, and learn how to avoid some common blunders.

The Workout Hairstyle - Switch Things Up

Of course, your hair has to be put back when you’re doing those crunches, whether it’s a high ponytail or a top knot. But the trick is not to tie your hair in the same place every day.

This can cause hair breakage over time. Make sure you alternate with every workout, and choose your hairstyle according to your workout. You must have a hairdo for every sport. The high bun should be your preference for pilates so no hair gets on your face.

For high-impact cardio, go for a high ponytail with a headband at your hairline to keep your hair unobstructed. Braids are ideal for protecting your hair from tangles and knots, and for cycling, opt for double braids as they fit nicely under a helmet.

Those Uber-Tight Hair Ties – Rethink Them

You never thought that a hair tie being tight would be a problem while exercising and often grab the first one you can find. In reality, it is important that the hair ties you use while exercising are gentler than the average elastic.

Get your hair off your neck so it won’t cling to your skin, but don’t use just any elastic. Ribbon hair ties are much gentler on your hair and won’t create dents or crimps. Invisibobbles are the perfect workout accessory because they are made of plastic, can hold hair without absorbing sweat, and their spiral design won't cause headaches, hair breakage, or leave you with any weird ponytail holder marks.

Buy a hairband made from moisture-wicking fabric. Nike makes good ones that are stretchy, breathable, and designed to keep your head cool and dry. Avoid silicon-based hair products before exercising, as they can attract dirt and sweat, making hair look dirty fast. Plus, any product buildup will weigh hair down, leaving it flat after your workout.

Water On Your Hair - Not Always a Good Idea

Often, the heat that builds up in your body post-workout feels cooler if you splash some water on your head.

You can drink all the water you want, but when it comes to putting some on your head, stop and rethink - could you be worsening damaged hair? Sometimes you are tempted to wet your hair with water post-gym and then use a conditioner to detangle. Such a bad idea! Not only are you spreading the salty sweat to your ends, but water is also drying out your hair.

In-fact, conditioner is only meant to go on clean hair. If it goes on dirty hair, it will make the hair dry out and start breaking. So instead of wetting your hair, just let the sweat dry itself.

Dry Shampoo

You can also apply dry shampoo on the roots prior to exercising. Then after a workout, run your fingers through your hair and over your scalp to disperse the powder, which has now grabbed onto any moisture in the hair.

You only need to apply this before sweating; if your hair is drenched with sweat, no dry shampoo is strong enough to soak that up. If you don’t have dry shampoo, you can reach for some regular talc powder.

Post-Workout Hair Wash

Tempting as it is to just stand under the shower after your workout and let that sweat and grime get washed off your hair, over-shampooing is a big no-no.

This can dry out your hair and strip away all of the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair healthy. Hair looks and styles better when it’s a little dirty, so post-gym, shower and wet your hair using a little conditioner throughout - but no shampoo. Once a week, use a clarifying shampoo to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup.

So, next time you head to the gym all set for a workout, think about your hair and remember these super handy tips on how to stay clear of any dryness or damage. Let your workout be the best thing for you, from top to toe.