Keep Long Hair From Drying Out on an Extended Snorkel Trip?

By Janet – (Long Island, NY)
I have long hair and do not want it to get dry or brittle from repeated exposure to salt water. I am going on a two week snorkel trip to Indonesia in October, 2019. Are there any tricks I can use to prevent my hair from drying out with the repeated exposure to salt water? We are limited in the weight of our luggage so I will bring only necessities.

Thank you in advance.

Comments Moved From Previous System

Nicole – Aug 27, 2019 – Reef Safe Leave-in Conditioner

Hi Janet, I also have long hair and have used numerous ways to control it while snorkeling, like a lycra swim cap or a buff headband. Recently I have also been using a hooded rash guard to help with that instead. These help to keep the sun off to varying degrees which helps keep my hair from drying out from sun exposure.

Though I have not personally noticed the salt water drying out my hair, it may happen for some. I have been using Stream2Sea’s Reef Safe Leave-in Conditioner (unscented version here) with great results for detangling after being in the salt water. It is designed for moisturizing your hair after being in the salt water.

They offer it in very small one ounce bottles that would not take up much space or weight in your luggage and that amount will easily last two weeks in my experience. Stream2Sea is graciously offering our site visitors 10% off your first order by using the coupon code TropicalSnorkeling on Stream2Sea’s website at the link above. We may make a small commission if you purchase items from the link above.

I just put it on every evening after I shower and it is good through the entire next day of snorkeling. And I am happy knowing that it has been tested for not being toxic to marine life.

Judy – Sep 1, 2019 – Hair Conditioning

If you don’t mind going red, pure henna powder (also known as mehndi), is excellent for protecting hair. I’ve been snorkeling on Cayman Brac for six weeks and my hair is doing well. I did a henna treatment before coming here, and more treatments while here.

Anonymous – Sep 1, 2019 – Hair

I braided my hair on each side close to my head and then just rinsed without shampooing or unbraiding it. Sort of a Rasta approach. Somehow because it isn’t loose, it is better protected.

Anonymous – Sep 1, 2019 – Don’t Blow Dry

Definitely moisturize, moisturize, moisturize and don’t blow dry.

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