7 Surprising Ways Salt Water Affects Curly Hair
Question from a reader:
Hi Cindy, I’m taking a beach vacation next month and I’ve got a head full of lively curls… I’m curious about the effects of salt water on my hair. I embrace my natural texture and often hear mixed advice about the ocean’s impact. Could you shed some light on how salt water truly affects curly hair, and offer any tips for those of us who can’t resist a swim but want to keep our curls healthy and bouncy?
Noelle Wallace
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Hello Noelle,
Salt water can be both helpful and harmful for curly hair. When used in small amounts, it helps curls look more defined and adds volume. But if you use salt water too often, it can dry out your hair and damage the cuticles because of salt buildup. So, use salt water carefully and take good care of your hair to avoid problems.
For instance, staying at the beach for a long time can remove your hair’s natural oils. This causes dryness, breakage, and frizz. Also, salt water molecules damage the keratin protein in curly hair. This makes hair more porous and easier to lose moisture (source).
Using salt water carefully can make curly hair look better by adding volume and defining curls. To keep your curls healthy, try to stay in salt water for less than 12 hours. Also, protect your hair from the sun, UV rays, and wind to avoid damage.
If you have type 3 or type 4 curly hair, salt water can dry out your hair more. Curly hair has more protein than straight hair (source). Salt water can weaken this protein, making it easier for moisture to leave your hair.
Tips for Protecting Your Curly Hair from Salt Water Damage
Your curly hair will need as much protection as it can get. Follow these tips before you head into salt water!
What About Sea Salt Spray?
Sea salt spray is made with salt and water. Like ocean water, it is safe for your hair if you use it in small amounts. Using too much can dry out your curls. But it helps define and shape your curls better than most products. The salt gives a light, natural hold without making your hair heavy. Sea salt is also full of minerals that can help strengthen your hair and support growth. For an easy, messy style, spray sea salt spray on damp hair, scrunch it, and let it air dry. I suggest trying Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray.
Tips for Treating Your Curly Hair Due to Salt Water Damage
If your hair has been exposed to salt water for longer than 12 hours, then follow these steps:
Does salt water make hair curly?
Salt water does not create curls in your hair. However, it can make natural waves or curls look more noticeable. When your hair touches salt water, the salt interacts with the outer layer of your hair. This forms tiny fibers between hair cells. These fibers help highlight the waves or curls you already have. If your hair is straight, salt water will not make it curly. It only brings out the natural shape in wavy or curly hair.