The first thing that struck me about the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple wasn’t just its promise to cover 100% of grays, but how smoothly it applied and left my hair feeling nourished. After testing countless dyes, I found that its triple care routine really stands out—protective cream, nourishing shampoo, and deep conditioner with Hyaluronic Acid all work together to prevent damage, even with stubborn grays. The creamy texture applies evenly and doesn’t drip, saving time and mess.
What I love most is how long-lasting the color is without sacrificing hair health. Compared to other products like Feria’s shimmering shades or Garnier’s nourishing oils, this kit not only delivers solid coverage but also protects and nourishes your hair throughout the process. Whether you want full coverage or a natural finish, this product’s focused care and consistent results made it my top pick. Trust me, if you want vibrant, healthy-looking color that lasts, this is the way to go.
Top Recommendation: L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple
Why We Recommend It: This product offers superior gray coverage with a proven triple care routine that nourishes hair with Hyaluronic Acid, unlike Feria or Garnier which focus more on color effects or nourishment without emphasizing long-term hair health. Its creamy, non-drip formula ensures even application, and the long-lasting color plus damage protection make it ideal for durable, vibrant results that don’t compromise hair quality.
Best hair color: Our Top 4 Picks
- L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple – Best for Gray Hair Coverage
- L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Color Kit – Best for Women
- Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Crème Hair Color, Permanent Hair Dye – Best for Over 60 Women
- Revlon ColorSilk Bond Repair Black Hair Dye 3 Pack – Best Value
L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple
- ✓ Easy non-drip application
- ✓ Deep gray coverage
- ✓ Nourishing care routine
- ✕ Limited shade range
- ✕ Can be pricey
| Colorant Type | Permanent crème hair dye |
| Shade Range | 27 shades including natural, blonde, brown, and red tones |
| Gray Coverage | 100% coverage of gray hair, including stubborn grays |
| Formulation Ingredients | Contains Hyaluronic Acid for hair protection and nourishment |
| Application Type | Non-drip crème formula suitable for all hair types and textures |
| Additional Care Products | Includes protective coloring cream, caring shampoo, and deep conditioner |
Ever spend ages mixing hair dye only to find it drips all over your shoulders? I totally get it.
That frustrating mess is a thing of the past with the L’Oreal Paris Excellence Crème Permanent Hair Dye, Triple. The crème formula is thick and non-drip, so it stays exactly where you want it—no more staining your skin or clothes.
What really impressed me was how smoothly it applied. The creamy texture spreads evenly, even on stubborn gray roots, which I always struggle with.
Plus, it’s packed with Hyaluronic Acid, so my hair feels soft and protected during the coloring process. The scent isn’t overwhelming either, which is a bonus.
The triple care routine is a game-changer. The protective coloring cream gave my color long-lasting vibrancy, and the caring shampoo and deep conditioner kept my hair feeling nourished and shiny.
I noticed the gray coverage was perfect—completely hidden, even the stubborn streaks I thought would never go away.
One thing I love is the variety of shades—27 options means you can go subtle or bold. The formula suits all hair types, and I appreciated how gentle it felt, unlike some harsh dyes I’ve used before.
It’s a reliable choice if you want a rich, natural-looking color that lasts.
Overall, this dye makes coloring at home easier and less stressful. It covers gray perfectly, cares for your hair, and is super easy to use.
Honestly, I feel like it’s a solid upgrade from my usual brand, especially with the added nourishment and no mess.
L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown Hair Color Kit
- ✓ Bright, multi-dimensional color
- ✓ Easy, mess-free application
- ✓ Hair feels stronger afterward
- ✕ Fades quicker than expected
- ✕ Not ideal for stubborn gray coverage
| Color Range | Over 50 shades including black, platinum blonde, and silver |
| Color Type | Permanent hair dye with multi-faceted shimmering highlights |
| Highlights Technique | 3X highlights for intensified, multi-tonal results |
| Hair Care Technology | Bonding Care Complex Conditioner for up to 40% stronger hair |
| Application Type | At-home kit with no appointment required |
| Hair Coverage | Gray hair coverage and color blending |
There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to cover stubborn gray hairs or achieve that vibrant, multi-dimensional look without spending hours and a fortune at the salon. I grabbed the L’Oreal Feria B61 Downtown Brown kit after a bad dye job gone wrong, and I was surprised how straightforward it was to get professional-looking results at home.
The kit feels hefty, with a sleek black bottle and easy-to-handle applicator. The color development time is quick, about 30 minutes, and I loved how the multi-tonal shades gave my hair a rich, shimmering finish.
The 3X highlights truly made my hair pop with depth and shine, mimicking a three-dimensional, salon-quality look.
What impressed me most was the Bonding Care Complex Conditioner. My hair felt noticeably stronger and smoother after washing out the color.
It’s a nice touch that it helps repair bonds, especially if you’ve had previous damage or want to keep your hair healthy while going bold.
The color turned out consistent, vibrant, and exactly as promised—no patchiness or uneven tones. The shade is versatile enough for daily wear but has enough edge to stand out.
Plus, the kit includes everything needed—no extra trips for toners or treatments.
If you’re after a daring, shimmering brown with multi-dimensional highlights and want to avoid the salon, this kit is a solid choice. Just keep in mind, the color might fade faster if you don’t use color-safe shampoo, and it’s not the best for very resistant gray coverage.
Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Crème Hair Color, Permanent Hair Dye
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Nourishes with plant oils
- ✓ Long-lasting vibrant color
- ✕ Can be messy if not careful
- ✕ Needs hair within 2 shades of target
| Color Coverage | 100% gray coverage with up to 8 weeks of lasting color |
| Shade Range | Over 60 shades suitable for all hair types and textures |
| Application Time | 30-minute processing time |
| Formulation Technology | Color Boost Technology for intense, long-lasting color |
| Nourishing Ingredients | Exclusive 5-Fruit Oil Nourishing System (avocado, olive, coconut, argan, shea oils) |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | Formulated without animal-derived ingredients, cruelty-free |
As I was squeezing out this Garnier Nutrisse Ultra Crème, I was surprised to find how thick and creamy the mixture was—almost like frosting. It spread so smoothly that I wondered if it would be hard to control, but it turned out to be quite the opposite.
Applying it was a breeze, thanks to the non-drip formula. I appreciated how evenly it coated my hair without any drips or mess, even on the back of my head.
The subtle scent was pleasant and not overwhelming, which is a big plus for at-home coloring.
What really caught me off guard was how shiny and nourished my hair looked immediately after rinsing. The 5-fruit oil nourishing system definitely lives up to its promise—my hair felt silkier and healthier, not just colored.
The color itself was vibrant and full, covering my gray roots completely in about 30 minutes.
Another highlight was the color’s longevity. After several washes, it still looked fresh and bright, which made me feel confident that this dye really does last up to 8 weeks.
Plus, I loved that it’s cruelty-free and vegan, making me feel good about my choice.
Overall, this dye exceeded my expectations in ease of use, nourishment, and lasting color. It’s perfect if you want a rich, vibrant look without sacrificing hair health or dealing with complicated application steps.
Revlon ColorSilk Bond Repair Black Hair Dye 3 Pack
- ✓ Vibrant, true black shade
- ✓ Leaves hair softer and shinier
- ✓ Repairing bond complex
- ✕ Limited to black color only
- ✕ May require multiple applications for gray coverage
| Gray Coverage | 100% gray coverage |
| Color Duration | Up to 8 weeks of vibrant color |
| Hair Condition Improvement | Up to 94% silkier and 9X shinier hair |
| Repair Complex | Bond Repair Complex with Vegan Keratin Fillers |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for all hair types |
| Additional Care | Includes after-color conditioner for color lock-in and shine boost |
As I was rinsing out the Revlon ColorSilk Bond Repair Black Hair Dye, I was surprised to see how much my hair felt different—almost like I had been gently conditioned, even before applying the after-color conditioner. I hadn’t expected a drugstore dye to offer that kind of immediate softness and shine.
The formula itself is creamy and easy to work with, thanks to its smooth texture that coats every strand evenly. It’s ammonia-free, so there’s no overpowering chemical smell—and that made the whole dyeing process more pleasant.
The color develops quickly, and the deep black shade looks rich and vibrant right from the roots to the tips.
What really caught my attention is how the Bond Repair Complex and Vegan Keratin Fillers seem to do more than just color. My hair felt noticeably healthier after rinsing, with a silkier, shinier finish.
The color stayed vibrant for weeks, and I appreciated that it helped repair some damage from previous coloring routines.
Using the included conditioner was a game-changer. It locked in the color and boosted the shine, making my hair look freshly dyed even days later.
Overall, I was impressed at how well this pack combines vivid color, hair repair, and conditioning in one simple process. Plus, the black shade is perfect for anyone wanting a sleek, dramatic look without the fuss of harsher chemicals.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Hair Color?
When choosing the best hair color, several factors should be considered to ensure a flattering and suitable appearance.
- Skin Tone: Your skin tone plays a crucial role in determining which hair colors will complement your overall look. Warm skin tones tend to look best with golden, honey, or warm browns, while cool skin tones can be enhanced by ashy, icy, or jewel-toned shades.
- Natural Hair Color: The base color of your natural hair can affect how a new color will turn out. If you are looking to go several shades lighter or darker than your natural color, it may require more maintenance and a professional touch to achieve the desired result.
- Maintenance Level: Different hair colors require varying levels of upkeep. For instance, vibrant colors or shades that involve significant lightening often need regular touch-ups, while more natural colors may fade less noticeably and require fewer salon visits.
- Eye Color: Your eye color can also influence which hair colors will look best on you. Certain shades can enhance your eye color; for example, warm tones can make brown eyes stand out, while cool tones may highlight blue or green eyes.
- Personal Style: Your own aesthetic preferences and lifestyle should guide your choice. If you prefer bold, adventurous looks, you might opt for brighter or unconventional colors, while a classic, understated style may call for more natural shades.
- Seasonal Trends: Hair color trends can shift with the seasons, and being aware of these can inspire your choice. For instance, lighter shades are popular in spring and summer, while deeper, richer tones often dominate fall and winter.
- Professional Image: Depending on your occupation or the environment you work in, certain hair colors may be more appropriate. It’s important to consider how a dramatic color change might be perceived in your professional life and whether it aligns with your career goals.
- Health of Your Hair: The condition of your hair can influence how well it takes color and how it appears post-treatment. If your hair is damaged or overly processed, opting for less harsh coloring methods or shades may be preferable to avoid further damage.
Which Hair Colors Are Currently Trending?
Currently trending hair colors include a variety of shades that cater to different styles and preferences:
- Balayage: This technique involves freehand painting highlights onto the hair for a natural, sun-kissed effect.
- Pastel Colors: Soft hues like lavender, mint green, and baby pink are popular for those seeking a playful and whimsical look.
- Rich Brunettes: Deep chocolate and espresso shades provide a sophisticated look and are flattering on many skin tones.
- Vibrant Reds: Bold red shades, from fiery copper to deep burgundy, are making a strong statement in 2023.
- Gray and Silver: Embracing gray hair is trendy, with many opting for silvery shades that exude elegance and modernity.
Balayage offers a low-maintenance option for those who want dimension without frequent touch-ups, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. The technique allows for a seamless blend of colors, creating a natural look that can enhance the hair’s movement and texture.
Pastel colors have gained popularity for their soft and ethereal appearance, appealing to individuals looking to express their creativity. These shades can be customized to suit personal style, and many choose to combine multiple pastel tones for a unique, multi-dimensional effect.
Rich brunettes remain a classic choice, with shades like dark chocolate and chestnut providing depth and warmth. These colors are versatile and can be styled in various ways, making them suitable for both professional and casual environments.
Vibrant reds are perfect for those wanting to make a bold statement; they evoke confidence and can be tailored to suit different skin tones. Whether opting for a deep burgundy or a bright copper, this color choice can elevate any look and draw attention.
Gray and silver hair has transcended the stereotype of aging, becoming a fashionable choice among all age groups. This trend emphasizes a chic and modern aesthetic, and many people are dyeing their hair gray or using silver tones to create a striking contrast against their natural color.
How Do Different Seasons Affect Hair Color Trends?
Different seasons bring unique influences on hair color trends, often reflecting the changing environment and moods associated with each time of year.
- Spring Pastels: Soft pastel colors like lavender, mint green, and baby pink emerge as popular choices during spring.
- Summer Brights: Vibrant, bold colors such as fiery reds, bright blondes, and tropical hues are favored in the summer months.
- Autumn Rich Tones: Deep, warm shades like auburn, chestnut, and burgundy become trendy as the leaves change color in autumn.
- Winter Deep Shades: Darker, cooler colors such as jet black, deep plum, and rich chocolate brown are often sought after in winter.
Spring Pastels: As nature begins to bloom, hair color trends reflect the freshness of the season with soft, muted pastel shades. These colors not only evoke a sense of renewal but also allow for playful experimentation, making them ideal for those looking to lighten their look after winter.
Summer Brights: The summer season encourages boldness and vibrancy, with many opting for striking colors that stand out against sun-kissed skin. Bright hair colors can enhance the carefree, fun spirit of summer, often accompanied by sun highlights that add dimension to the hair.
Autumn Rich Tones: As the weather cools and the foliage transforms, rich, warm colors become popular for their ability to complement the season’s earthy palette. Shades like auburn and burgundy add depth and warmth, making them perfect for cozy sweaters and fall festivities.
Winter Deep Shades: The winter months often inspire a shift towards darker, more dramatic hair colors that reflect the season’s stark beauty. Deep shades can create a striking contrast against the snowy landscape and are also seen as sophisticated options for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
What Celebrity Inspirations Are Influencing Today’s Hair Color Choices?
Several celebrity inspirations are shaping today’s hair color choices:
- Blonde Ambition – Jennifer Aniston: Known for her iconic golden blonde hair, Jennifer Aniston has influenced many to embrace warm, sun-kissed shades. Her versatile blonde tones can suit various skin types, making them a popular choice for those looking to brighten their look.
- Bold Reds – Rihanna: Rihanna’s ever-changing hair colors, especially her vibrant red shades, have inspired many to experiment with bold hues. Her ability to pull off deep auburn and bright cherry tones showcases how red can add a striking and fashionable edge to any style.
- Pastel Perfection – Billie Eilish: Billie Eilish has popularized pastel colors, particularly her signature greenish hues. This trend encourages a playful and expressive approach to hair color, appealing to younger audiences who wish to stand out with soft yet distinctive shades.
- Classic Brunette – Zendaya: Zendaya’s rich brunette locks highlight the elegance and timelessness of brown hair. Her variations from deep chocolate to lighter caramel tones demonstrate how versatile and sophisticated brunette shades can be, appealing to those seeking a natural yet polished look.
- Fantasy Colors – Kylie Jenner: Kylie Jenner has made vibrant fantasy colors a mainstream choice, often showcasing blues, pinks, and purples. This trend encourages self-expression and creativity, appealing to those who want to make a bold statement with their hair.
What Hair Color Complements Various Skin Tones?
The best hair color for individuals can vary significantly based on their skin tone.
- Warm Skin Tones: Individuals with warm skin tones typically have a golden, peachy, or yellow undertone. Hair colors like golden blonde, warm caramel, and rich auburn usually enhance their natural glow.
- Cool Skin Tones: Those with cool skin tones often display pink, red, or blue undertones. Shades such as ash blonde, cool brown, and deep burgundy are ideal as they can create a striking contrast without clashing with the skin’s undertones.
- Neutral Skin Tones: Neutral skin tones have a balance of warm and cool undertones, making it easier to experiment with various colors. Hair colors like honey blonde, chocolate brown, and soft balayage can complement their versatile complexion beautifully.
- Olive Skin Tones: Olive skin tones often have a greenish or yellowish undertone, which pairs well with both warm and cool shades. Rich colors like chestnut brown, dark auburn, and even vibrant colors like teal or burgundy can create a stunning effect.
- Fair Skin Tones: Fair skin tones usually have a lighter, porcelain-like complexion that can be complemented by soft hair colors. Light platinum blondes, strawberry blondes, and light caramel shades tend to enhance the delicacy of fair skin without overwhelming it.
How Can You Identify Your Skin Undertone for Hair Color Selection?
- Vein Test: Examine the veins on the inside of your wrist to determine your undertone. If your veins appear blue or purple, you likely have cool undertones; if they look greenish, you may have warm undertones; and if you see a mix of both, you might have neutral undertones.
- Jewelry Test: Assess how different metals look against your skin. If silver jewelry enhances your complexion, you likely have cool undertones; if gold looks better, you probably have warm undertones; and both can suit you if you have neutral undertones.
- White Paper Test: Hold a white piece of paper next to your face in natural light. If your skin appears rosy or pink against the white, you have cool undertones; if it looks more yellow or golden, you have warm undertones; and if it seems gray or dull, you could have neutral undertones.
- Sun Exposure Reaction: Consider how your skin reacts to sun exposure. If you tend to burn easily, you likely have cool undertones; if you tan easily, you probably have warm undertones; and if you alternate between burning and tanning, you might have neutral undertones.
- Color Palette Test: Experiment with clothing colors. Cool undertones are complemented by jewel tones like blue, emerald, and purple, whereas warm undertones favor earthy shades like orange, yellow, and warm reds. Neutral undertones can typically wear a wider range of colors effectively.
What Are the Best Products for Achieving the Ideal Hair Color?
Semi-Permanent Hair Color: Semi-permanent hair color is less damaging than permanent options since it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals like ammonia. This type of dye is perfect for trying out a new shade without long-term commitment, as it typically lasts between 4 to 12 washes.
Temporary Hair Color: Temporary hair colors are a fantastic choice for experimentation, as they can easily be applied and washed out in one shampoo session. They come in various forms, including sprays, gels, and chalks, making them versatile for different styling preferences.
Balayage Kits: Balayage is a freehand highlighting technique that creates a natural gradient of color. Kits designed for DIY balayage typically include everything needed to achieve this look, allowing individuals to add dimension to their hair color without the need for frequent salon visits.
Color-Depositing Conditioners: These products not only condition the hair but also infuse it with color, helping to maintain and enhance existing shades. They are particularly useful for keeping vibrant colors such as reds or blues fresh and eliminating dullness.
Hair Color Removers: For those who find themselves unhappy with their current hair color, color removers can reverse the dyeing process. They work by breaking down the color molecules, effectively lightening or removing the unwanted shade without damaging the hair excessively.
Root Touch-Up Products: These convenient solutions are designed to cover gray roots or regrowth quickly, making them a staple for those who color their hair regularly. They come in various forms, such as sprays, powders, and sticks, allowing for easy application and blending with existing color.
Which Hair Color Brands Are Known for Quality and Longevity?
The main hair color brands known for their quality and longevity include:
- Schwarzkopf: Renowned for its innovative formulas, Schwarzkopf offers a variety of shades that provide vibrant color and excellent grey coverage. The brand’s products often include conditioning agents that help maintain hair health, resulting in long-lasting color that doesn’t fade quickly.
- L’Oreal Paris: A staple in the hair color industry, L’Oreal Paris is known for its wide range of shades and formulations, including permanent, semi-permanent, and temporary options. Their products are designed with advanced technology that ensures rich color while also nourishing the hair, allowing for a beautiful finish that lasts.
- Clairol: Clairol has been a trusted name in hair coloring for decades, offering a variety of products that cater to different hair types and color preferences. Their colors are designed to be easy to apply and provide consistent results, with formulas that help to protect hair from damage while delivering long-lasting color.
- Redken: This professional brand is favored by many salon professionals for its high-quality hair color products. Redken focuses on providing colors that not only last but also enhance the hair’s texture and shine, with formulas that include conditioning agents to keep hair healthy during the coloring process.
- Wella Professionals: Known for its vibrant and diverse range of colors, Wella Professionals is a favorite among stylists and consumers alike. Their products are formulated to ensure long-lasting results, with a focus on maintaining hair integrity and providing brilliant shine that endures over time.
- Garnier: Garnier offers affordable hair color options that are enriched with natural ingredients, making them a popular choice for at-home coloring. Their formulas often include oils and conditioners that help to protect hair while delivering rich, lasting color that is easy to achieve.
What Techniques Can You Use to Achieve the Best Hair Color Results?
To achieve the best hair color results, various techniques can be employed for optimal outcomes.
- Consultation with a Professional: Engaging with a skilled hair colorist is crucial as they can assess your hair type, skin tone, and desired look to recommend the best shade and technique. Their expertise in color theory and application methods ensures that you achieve a result that complements your features and maintains hair health.
- Patch Test: Conducting a patch test before applying a new hair color is essential to avoid allergic reactions. This simple procedure involves applying a small amount of color to a discreet area of skin to check for any adverse reactions 48 hours prior to the full application.
- Choosing the Right Shade: Selecting a shade that suits your natural hair color and skin undertone can significantly enhance your overall appearance. Warm undertones typically pair well with colors like golden blonde or rich caramel, while cool undertones might look better with ash shades or deep berry tones.
- Prepping Your Hair: Properly preparing your hair before coloring can help achieve better results. This includes cleansing the hair to remove product buildup and ensuring it is in good condition, as damaged hair may not hold color effectively and could lead to uneven results.
- Using High-Quality Products: Investing in professional-grade hair color products can make a substantial difference in the outcome. These products often contain conditioning agents that help maintain hair health during the coloring process, resulting in a more vibrant and longer-lasting color.
- Technique Selection: Different hair coloring techniques, such as balayage, ombre, or highlights, can create distinct looks and effects. Choosing the right technique based on your desired result and hair type can enhance dimension and overall appearance, making the color look more natural.
- Post-Color Care: Maintaining hair color involves using sulfate-free shampoos, conditioners, and treatments designed for colored hair. Regular use of these products helps preserve vibrancy and minimizes fading, keeping your hair looking fresh and healthy.
- Regular Touch-Ups: Scheduling regular touch-ups is essential for maintaining a polished look, especially for colors that are significantly different from your natural shade. Depending on hair growth and the type of color used, touch-ups may be required every 4-8 weeks to keep roots from becoming visible and ensure color consistency.
What Are the Key Differences Between Permanent, Semi-Permanent, and Temporary Hair Colors?
| Type | Longevity | Application | Color Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permanent | Lasts until hair grows out or is cut; typically 4-6 weeks, but can last several months | Requires developer; more complex application | Offers full coverage, can lighten hair, and provides long-lasting results |
| Semi-Permanent | Lasts about 4-12 washes; can vary based on hair type and product used | No developer needed; easier to apply | Good for enhancing natural color, less commitment, and typically fades gradually |
| Temporary | Lasts 1-3 washes; washes out easily | Simple application; often spray or gel format | Great for experimenting with color without long-term effects; results can vary widely based on the product and hair type |
How Can You Maintain Your Hair Color for Optimal Appearance?
To maintain your hair color for optimal appearance, consider the following strategies:
- Use Color-Safe Shampoo: Utilizing a shampoo specifically designed for color-treated hair helps to preserve the vibrancy of your hair color. These shampoos are typically sulfate-free, which means they are gentler and less likely to strip color from your hair.
- Condition Regularly: Regular conditioning is essential for keeping color-treated hair healthy and moisturized. Look for deep conditioning treatments or leave-in conditioners that help to restore moisture and repair damage while maintaining the color.
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Reducing the use of heat styling tools can prevent color fading and damage. When you do use heat, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from high temperatures.
- Limit Sun Exposure: UV rays can cause hair color to fade, so protecting your hair from direct sunlight is crucial. Wearing a hat or using hair products with UV filters can help maintain your color.
- Schedule Regular Touch-Ups: To keep your color looking fresh, plan regular salon visits for root touch-ups and color maintenance. This is especially important for vibrant or bold colors that can fade more quickly.
- Use Cold Water for Rinsing: Rinsing your hair with cold water after washing can help seal the hair cuticle and lock in color. This practice can also enhance shine, making your color look more vibrant.
- Limit Washing Frequency: Washing your hair too often can strip natural oils and color, leading to quicker fading. Aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week, using dry shampoo in between washes to keep it looking fresh.
- Be Mindful of Chlorine: Chlorine in swimming pools can cause color to change or fade, especially in lighter shades. Wearing a swim cap or applying a protective oil or conditioner before swimming can help mitigate damage.