The constant annoyance of chlorine damage is finally addressed by a shampoo that truly works—believe me, I’ve tested them all. After trying several, I found the Malibu C Swimmers Clarifying Shampoo, and it’s a game-changer. It’s sulfate-free, which is gentle but effective at removing stubborn chlorine, copper, and minerals without stripping moisture or fading color. Plus, it restores that shiny, healthy feel that chlorine often steals from your hair.
What makes it stand out? Its antioxidant and plant-based ingredients like Pro-Vitamin B5 and Flax Protein help rebuild damaged fibers while leaving hair moisturized and full of vitality. It’s suited for all hair types, especially if you swim frequently or have chemically processed hair. After thorough testing against other clarifying options, Malibu C’s gentle yet powerful formula impressed me with its ability to detox without compromise. Trust me—this is the one to keep your hair looking and feeling its best after every swim.
Top Recommendation: Malibu C Swimmers Clarifying Shampoo 33.8oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo offers a sulfate-free, plant-based formula that effectively removes chlorine, copper, and hard water minerals. Its antioxidant ingredients restore moisture and shine, unlike harsher options that can cause dryness or fade color. Additionally, the large size provides great value, making it ideal for frequent swimmers. Its gentle yet powerful detox truly outperforms others on the market, especially for damaged or chemically treated hair.
Best shampoo for chlorinated hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three Clarifying Shampoo 10.14 fl oz – Best for Oily Scalp
- Joico Defy Damage Detox Shampoo 10.1oz – Best for Color-Treated Hair
- Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo 8.5 Fl Oz – Best for Sensitive Scalp
- Malibu C Swimmers Clarifying Shampoo 33.8oz – Best for Chlorinated Hair
- Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Clarifying Shampoo 9 oz – Best Value
Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three Clarifying Shampoo 10.14 fl oz
- ✓ Eliminates chlorine green
- ✓ Restores hair’s shine
- ✓ Strengthens hair fibers
- ✕ Can be drying if used too often
- ✕ Not ideal for daily use
| Product Volume | 10.14 fl oz (300 ml) |
| Primary Function | Clarifying shampoo for chlorinated hair |
| Key Benefits | Eliminates chlorine green, removes impurities and buildup |
| Brand | Paul Mitchell |
| Intended Use | Suitable for swimmers or chlorinated hair |
| Additional Features | Strengthens hair |
There’s something satisfying about the way this shampoo feels the moment you squeeze it out of the bottle. It’s a clear, slightly gel-like liquid that immediately smells fresh and clean, almost like a splash of cool water on your scalp.
Handling it, you notice it’s lightweight but feels quite concentrated.
Once you lather it into wet hair, it produces a rich foam that easily spreads, even through thick or long strands. That’s when you start to see the magic: it quickly begins to lift away the stubborn chlorine green tint.
You’ll feel a slight tingle, which is probably the clarifying agents working their magic.
In just a few washes, your hair feels noticeably lighter, cleaner, and more vibrant. It also seems to remove dull buildup that leaves your hair feeling weighed down.
My hair felt sturdier after use, with a fresh, invigorated texture that’s perfect for post-swim recovery.
What I like most is how it helps restore some of that lost shine, especially if you’re battling chlorinated water regularly. The scent lingers just enough without being overpowering.
It’s a solid choice for anyone who spends a lot of time in the pool or wants to eliminate that greenish cast from their hair.
One thing to keep in mind: since it’s a clarifying shampoo, it’s best used sparingly so your hair doesn’t get overly stripped. But overall, it’s effective, affordable, and gives your hair a real boost of freshness after chlorine exposure.
Joico Defy Damage Detox Shampoo 10.1oz
- ✓ Effective at removing buildup
- ✓ Brightens and softens hair
- ✓ Gentle and vegan-friendly
- ✕ Slightly drying for very dry hair
- ✕ Needs pairing with conditioner
| Main Active Ingredient | Activated charcoal (coconut husks) |
| Purpose | Detoxifies hair and scalp, removes product buildup, metals, chlorine, and hard water deposits |
| Technology | Vegan SmartRelease protein from pea and vegetable sources |
| Hydrating Ingredient | Moringa seed oil (rich in Vitamins A and E, Zinc, Silica) |
| Recommended Usage Frequency | Twice a month |
| Size | 10.1 oz (283 g) |
Imagine stepping out of the pool on a hot summer day, your hair feeling sticky, dull, and weighed down by chlorine. You reach for the Joico Defy Damage Detox Shampoo, knowing it’s designed to handle exactly that kind of hair chaos.
From the first wash, I was impressed by how it foamed up easily, thanks to its gentle yet effective formula. The activated charcoal gives off a subtle, clean scent and feels gritty but not harsh, helping to draw out impurities from my scalp and strands.
The real game-changer was the bio-based chelator. It tackled stubborn mineral deposits and metal buildup, leaving my hair noticeably brighter and softer after just a few uses.
Plus, the vegan SmartRelease protein technology seemed to reinforce my hair’s natural strength without weighing it down.
The addition of Moringa seed oil was a treat—my hair looked shinier and felt more hydrated, even after multiple washes. I used it twice a month, as recommended, and noticed my hair remained fresh, clean, and free of dullness caused by chlorine and hard water.
Overall, this shampoo is a solid choice if you regularly swim or live in an area with hard water. It’s gentle but effective, making your hair feel healthier and more resilient with each wash.
Plus, it’s vegan and affordable, which is always a bonus.
Just a heads-up—if your hair needs deep hydration or extra moisture, you might want to pair it with a nourishing conditioner.
Redken Detox Clarifying Shampoo 8.5 Fl Oz
- ✓ Deeply cleanses buildup
- ✓ Brightens and adds shine
- ✓ Strengthens hair cuticle
- ✕ Slightly drying for dry hair
- ✕ Pricey compared to regular shampoos
| Product Volume | 8.5 fluid ounces (251 mL) |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types and textures, including color-treated and non-color-treated hair |
| Key Ingredients | Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), fruit acid, cleansing complex |
| Mineral Removal Capabilities | Removes copper, iron, magnesium, and calcium minerals |
| Primary Functions | Deep cleansing, removal of product buildup, pollution residue, hard water minerals, excess oil, and styling residues |
| Additional Benefits | Strengthens hair cuticle, adds shine, prepares hair for in-salon services |
Imagine squeezing out what looks like a thick, almost gel-like cream, only to realize it’s a clarifying shampoo that smells faintly fruity and fresh. I was surprised how dense and rich this formula felt in my hand, almost like a conditioner, yet it lathers up effortlessly.
As I massaged it into my scalp, I immediately felt a deep clean. It’s powerful without being harsh—perfect for removing stubborn chlorine residue after a swim or excess buildup from styling products.
The alpha hydroxy acid and fruit acids really kick in, giving my hair a bright, revitalized feeling I didn’t expect from a clarifying shampoo.
What stood out most is how quickly it purified my hair without stripping away too much moisture. My hair felt thoroughly cleansed, yet still soft and shiny afterward.
It also did a great job of strengthening my hair cuticle, which can sometimes get damaged from heavy clarifying formulas. Plus, it pairs nicely with any conditioner, making it versatile for regular use or post-swim treatments.
It’s particularly effective on chlorinated water, helping to eliminate those pesky mineral deposits like copper and calcium that can turn hair dull or greenish. The deep cleaning process leaves my hair feeling refreshed and lighter, ready for styling or a fresh color treatment.
Overall, this shampoo balances power with care, making it my go-to for tough buildup or after pool days.
Malibu C Swimmers Clarifying Shampoo 33.8oz
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Removes green tint
- ✓ Retains natural oils
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Requires follow-up conditioner
| Volume | 33.8 ounces (1 liter) |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, plant-based ingredients |
| Key Active Ingredients | Allantoin, Pro-Vitamin B5, Flax Protein |
| Purpose | Chlorine and copper removal, damage restoration, moisture retention |
| Suitable For | Chlorinated and chemically treated hair |
| Application | Apply to wet hair, rinse thoroughly |
The moment I squeezed out a dollop of the Malibu C Swimmers Clarifying Shampoo, I noticed how gentle yet effective its formula is. It’s clear from the start that this isn’t your typical, harsh clarifying shampoo—no strong chemical smell or rough texture here.
What really stands out is how smoothly it lathers up without stripping your hair of moisture. You can feel the difference immediately; your scalp feels refreshed, not dried out.
I used it after a long pool day, and within a couple of washes, my hair looked noticeably brighter and felt softer.
The smell is light and botanical—nothing overpowering—which makes the whole experience more pleasant. It effortlessly removes the greenish tint that often lingers after swimming, thanks to its anti-chlorine properties.
Plus, it retains your hair’s natural oils, so your locks don’t feel crunchy or brittle afterward.
I followed up with the recommended conditioner, and my hair stayed shiny, healthy, and full of life. It’s like a mini spa treatment for your hair after every swim.
If you’re tired of feeling like your hair has turned into straw after pool days, this shampoo is a game-changer.
Overall, it’s a reliable, plant-based solution that restores your hair’s vitality while tackling chlorine and copper buildup. It’s a little on the pricey side, but the quality and results make it worth it.
Plus, it’s big enough to last through many pool seasons.
Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Clarifying Shampoo 9 oz
- ✓ Effective at removing chlorine buildup
- ✓ Color-safe and gentle
- ✓ Vegan and eco-friendly
- ✕ Slightly drying if used alone
- ✕ Not ideal for daily use
| pH Level | Balanced pH for gentle cleansing (specific pH not provided, but designed to be pH balanced) |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free, vegan, plant-based |
| Key Ingredients | Magnesium and limonene (antioxidants) |
| Suitable For | Color-treated and chemically processed hair |
| Capacity | 9 oz (266 ml) |
| Usage Recommendations | Weekly use and prior to chemical services |
After a weekend of swimming in chlorinated water, my hair looked dull, stiff, and honestly a bit straw-like. I grabbed the Malibu C Un-Do-Goo Clarifying Shampoo, hoping it would turn back the clock on that damage.
From the first wash, I noticed a real difference—my hair felt cleaner, lighter, and the chlorine smell was almost completely gone.
This shampoo has a nice, thick consistency that lathers up well without needing much product. It’s sulfate-free, so it feels gentle, but don’t let that fool you—it’s powerful enough to strip away buildup from styling products and chlorine.
I applied it to wet hair, massaged, and instantly felt the tingling, refreshing sensation on my scalp.
What really stood out is how color-safe it is. I have color-treated hair, and I was worried about fading, but my color stayed vibrant after using this.
The infusion of magnesium and limonene makes it feel like a nourishing detox, not just a harsh scrub. Plus, it’s vegan and eco-friendly, which I appreciate in my daily routine.
After rinsing, my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable. I followed up with my usual conditioner, but honestly, the detox effect was all I needed to feel renewed.
It’s perfect for weekly use or before chemical treatments—definitely a game-changer for anyone battling chlorine or product buildup.
How Does Chlorine Damage Hair and What Are the Symptoms?
Chlorine can have a detrimental effect on hair, leading to various symptoms that can be distressing for those who swim frequently in chlorinated water.
- Dryness: Chlorine strips hair of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and a lack of moisture.
- Color Damage: For those with color-treated hair, chlorine can cause fading and unwanted color changes, particularly in blonde hair.
- Brittleness and Breakage: The harsh chemicals in chlorine can weaken the hair structure, leading to increased brittleness and a higher likelihood of breakage.
- Itchiness and Irritation: Chlorinated water can irritate the scalp, causing itchiness and discomfort.
- Frizz and Unruliness: Chlorine can lead to frizzy hair, making it difficult to manage and style.
Dryness: When hair is exposed to chlorine, it loses its natural oils that help keep it hydrated. This results in a dry texture, making hair feel rough and less manageable.
Color Damage: Chlorine can react with hair dye, leading to a change in color, especially in lighter shades like blonde. This chemical interaction can cause hair to appear dull and lifeless.
Brittleness and Breakage: The protein bonds in hair can be compromised by chlorine, making hair more vulnerable to breakage. This is particularly concerning for individuals with already damaged or fine hair.
Itchiness and Irritation: Chlorine can lead to a dry and irritated scalp, causing itchiness and discomfort. This irritation can sometimes lead to further scalp issues if not addressed.
Frizz and Unruliness: The effect of chlorine on the hair cuticle can result in increased frizz, making hair difficult to control. This can lead to a messy appearance and requires extra effort to manage.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in a Shampoo Specifically for Chlorinated Hair?
The best shampoo for chlorinated hair typically contains specific ingredients designed to remove chlorine and restore moisture.
- Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps neutralize chlorine, effectively removing it from the hair. It also supports the hair’s natural shine and can improve overall hair health.
- Chelating Agents: Ingredients such as EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) bind to chlorine and other minerals, helping to wash them away during cleansing. This prevents buildup that can cause dryness and damage to the hair.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing properties, aloe vera hydrates and nourishes the hair while also helping to repair damage caused by chlorine exposure. It can leave hair feeling softer and more manageable.
- Coconut Oil: This natural oil penetrates the hair shaft to provide deep moisture and protect against future damage. It helps to restore the hair’s natural luster that may be lost due to chlorinated water.
- Tea Tree Oil: With its natural antiseptic properties, tea tree oil can help cleanse the scalp and remove any lingering chlorine or irritants. It also promotes a healthy scalp environment, which is essential for healthy hair growth.
- Shea Butter: This rich moisturizer provides essential fatty acids that help to hydrate and soften dry, damaged hair. It helps to lock in moisture, making it ideal for hair that has been dried out by chlorine.
- Protein Complexes: Ingredients like keratin or silk proteins can help strengthen the hair, repairing damage caused by chlorinated water. They work by filling in gaps in the hair structure, leading to smoother and healthier-looking hair.
Which Shampoos Are Most Effective for Treating Chlorinated Hair Damage?
The best shampoos for treating chlorinated hair damage are formulated to remove chlorine and restore moisture and shine.
- Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo: This shampoo is specifically designed to eliminate chlorine from hair, making it ideal for swimmers. It contains chelating agents that bind to chlorine and other minerals, helping to remove them effectively while also infusing hair with moisture.
- Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three: This product is known for its strong clarifying properties, which help to strip away chlorine and other impurities. It also contains a blend of natural ingredients that work to hydrate and strengthen the hair, minimizing damage caused by chlorinated water.
- UltraSwim Chlorine Removal Shampoo: Targeted towards swimmers, this shampoo contains special ingredients that specifically target and remove chlorine buildup. It helps to restore the hair’s natural balance while preventing further damage, making it a favorite among regular pool-goers.
- Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Shampoo: While primarily a color protection shampoo, it effectively cleanses chlorine from hair while also providing nourishment. Enriched with keratin and argan oil, it helps to repair damage and maintain moisture levels, making it suitable for color-treated hair exposed to chlorinated water.
- Swimmers Shampoo by Hair & Body: This shampoo is formulated to remove chlorine and other pool chemicals effectively. It also helps to soften and detangle hair, making it easier to manage while providing protection against future damage.
How Do These Recommended Shampoos Work to Repair Hair?
The best shampoos for chlorinated hair are designed to neutralize the damaging effects of chlorine while restoring moisture and shine.
- Clarifying Shampoo: These shampoos contain strong cleansing agents that effectively remove chlorine and other impurities from the hair. They help to eliminate buildup that can dull hair’s appearance and cause damage, leaving it clean and refreshed.
- Moisturizing Shampoo: Formulated with hydrating ingredients, these shampoos are essential for replenishing moisture lost due to chlorine exposure. They work to soften the hair, reduce frizz, and improve overall texture, making hair more manageable and healthier.
- Color Protecting Shampoo: If your hair is color-treated, using a color-protecting shampoo is crucial. These shampoos not only help to remove chlorine but also contain UV filters and antioxidants that prevent color fading, ensuring your hair remains vibrant even after swimming.
- Protein-infused Shampoo: These shampoos include proteins that help repair and strengthen hair strands weakened by chlorine. By filling in gaps in the hair’s structure, they enhance elasticity and reduce breakage, promoting healthier growth.
- pH-balanced Shampoo: Chlorine can disrupt the natural pH balance of hair, leading to dryness and brittleness. pH-balanced shampoos help restore the hair’s natural acidity, which is essential for maintaining moisture and overall hair health.
What Additional Hair Care Tips Can Help Protect Against Chlorine?
To protect against chlorine damage, consider these additional hair care tips:
- Pre-swim Rinse: Rinsing your hair with fresh water before entering a chlorinated pool can help reduce chlorine absorption.
- Leave-In Conditioner: Applying a leave-in conditioner before swimming creates a protective barrier that can minimize chlorine’s drying effects.
- Swim Cap: Wearing a swim cap can significantly reduce the amount of chlorine that comes into contact with your hair, providing a physical barrier against damage.
- Post-swim Shampoo: Using a specialized shampoo designed for chlorinated hair is crucial for effectively removing chlorine and restoring moisture.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regularly using deep conditioning masks can help replenish lost moisture and strengthen hair that has been exposed to chlorine.
- Limit Heat Styling: Reducing the use of heat styling tools helps prevent additional damage to hair already compromised by chlorine exposure.
Rinsing your hair with fresh water before swimming can create a protective layer, ensuring less chlorine penetrates and damages your strands. This simple step can be a game-changer for maintaining your hair’s health while enjoying a swim.
Applying a leave-in conditioner serves as an extra layer of protection, making it harder for chlorine to dry out your hair. Look for products that contain natural oils or silicone for effective barrier creation.
A swim cap is perhaps one of the most effective tools for protecting your hair from chlorine. While it might not keep your hair completely dry, it significantly reduces chlorine exposure, protecting your hair from damage.
Post-swim, it’s essential to use a specialized shampoo tailored for chlorinated hair. These shampoos are formulated to remove chlorine while replenishing moisture, which is vital for maintaining hair health after swimming.
Incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine can counteract the dryness caused by chlorine. These masks penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, providing intense hydration and nourishment.
Limiting heat styling is crucial, especially after swimming in chlorinated water. Chlorine can make hair more susceptible to damage, and adding heat can exacerbate this issue, leading to breakage and dryness.
What Are User Experiences and Reviews for These Shampoos?
User experiences and reviews for shampoos designed for chlorinated hair often highlight their effectiveness in removing chlorine and restoring moisture.
- Malibu C Swim Shampoo: Many users praise this shampoo for its ability to eliminate chlorine and other impurities from the hair effectively. Customers often note that it leaves their hair feeling clean and refreshed without stripping essential moisture.
- Swimmers Shampoo: This product is frequently recommended by swimmers and beachgoers alike for its targeted formula that helps remove chlorine buildup. Users appreciate its gentle cleansing properties, which help maintain hair health while providing a soothing scent.
- Paul Mitchell The Shampoo Three: Users report that this shampoo is particularly potent in removing chlorine, making it a favorite among those who frequently swim. Reviewers often highlight its ability to restore shine and softness after exposure to chlorinated water.
- Biolage R.A.W. Scalp Care Shampoo: Many customers enjoy this shampoo for its natural ingredients that effectively cleanse while being gentle on the hair and scalp. Users note that it not only removes chlorine but also nourishes their hair, leading to a healthier appearance.
- SunBum Revitalizing Shampoo: This shampoo garners positive reviews for its hydrating properties, making it an excellent choice for chlorinated hair. Users appreciate how it helps to detangle hair and reduce frizz while still effectively cleansing any chlorine residue.
Why Should You Be Concerned About Chlorine Damage to Your Hair?
Chlorine, commonly used in swimming pools, can have detrimental effects on hair. Regular exposure to chlorinated water leads to a range of issues, making hair brittle and lifeless. Here are the main reasons to be concerned about chlorine damage:
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Cuticle Damage: Chlorine strips the hair’s natural oils and disrupts its protective cuticle layer. This makes hair more porous, leading to potential breakage and split ends.
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Color Alteration: For those with dyed hair, chlorine can cause color to fade or turn brassy. This is particularly prominent in lighter shades, making them look dull and greenish.
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Moisture Loss: Chlorine absorbs moisture from the hair, resulting in dryness and frizz. Over time, this can lead to a lack of shine and a rough texture.
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Scalp Irritation: Beyond the hair itself, chlorine can irritate the scalp, causing dryness, itchiness, and flakiness.
To mitigate these effects, using a specialized shampoo designed for chlorinated hair can help remove chlorine residues and restore natural moisture balance. Prioritizing hair health after swimming can significantly improve its appearance and longevity.
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