Haircare & Working Out

Disclaimer: This routine works for me and my hair.

I sweat in my scalp and I sweat A LOT therefore I have to rinse my hair after every workout. If I don't sweat because I am doing a nonstrenous activity such as Yoga or Pilates, I do not have to rinse.

Cleansing

When you sweat, that is salt building up in your hair and on your scalp which may eventually dry your hair out and cause breakage. Not to mention your hair will smell after awhile. Yuck! You don't necessarily have to wash your hair after every workout unless you are swimming in a chlorinated pool, but here are 3 alternatives:

1. Rinsing your hair with water - This involves rinsing your hair with water (only) and gentle massaging your scalp. Although this will not especially clean your hair, you are getting that salt out. You can do this either in the shower or in the sink. After you are do you can either

2. Condition Wash - This is different from the suggestion above because you are using conditioner on your hair instead of using only water to rinse. Here is a detailed explanation of Condition Washing.

3. Do the No Shampoo Method (AKA No Poo) - If you feel that you have to wash with shampoo, I wouldn't recommend shampooing more than 3 times a week with a very mild, protein and sulfate free shampoo. Click here for more details on the No Shampoo Method.

Workout Hairstyles

Scarves is the universal item everyone can use. It can pull your hair away from your face and act as as sweatband to keep sweat from dripping on your face as well. However, if you are in need of a particular hairstyle to work out in, take a look at the lists below:

TWA's

With this low maintainance hair you don't have to worry. Simply rinse and go and you're out the door!

Mid Length

Twists
Afro Puff
Cornrows

Longish/Longer Hair

Low bun/ponytail
French Braids
Use Hair Clips
Cornrows in the front and back up into a huge puff
Tie the hair up with a scarf so it is out of your face

Things to try to avoid

Avoid wearing a baseball hat because they may actually block the sweat glands, which can leave hair drying sweat spots along your hairline. Not only that, but you will get "hat hair" and for our hair texture that is a disaster and it will be a challenging to detangle after your workout is over.

To prevent potential hair breakage or traction alopecia, avoiding pulling your hair back too tightly if you choose to wear a ponytail. Make sure your hair is loose enough to allow you freedom of movement while working out. You should be able to scrunch your face and not feel any tension in your scalp whatsoever.

I wouldn't really suggest micros, if you plan on wearing them or if you already have them (or any braided hairstyle for that matter) you should still rinse the sweat out of your hair.

Tips

If swimming is part of your exercise routine, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair before swimming. Also wear a cap when possible. Wetting your hair with water completely before you immersing in the pool will help prevent excessive chlorine damage.

If you use saunas, steam baths, or jacuzzis without any protection on your hair, the dry heat can dry out your strands. Always apply a dab of leave-in conditioner or light jojoba to protect your hair from the heat. For a great deep conditioning treatment, after washing, rinsing, or condition washing apply deep conditioner and wrap a towel around your hair.

Final Thoughts

Working out does not have to be a chore and it can actually be fun. Do something that you enjoy. Even if you walk briskly 3 times a week for only 30 minutes, you are getting a great workout. Also working out with a friend or family member(s) can help jump start you with motivation and can provide the support you need (not unless they want to go to Krispy Creme after the workout). :)

Check with your doctor before starting any fitness regimen and never over exert yourself. Listen to your body.

Good luck and work it out!