Sweat isn’t great for any hair type, but for curly hair, the damage can be even worse. The combination of sweat, friction, and humidity can cause frizz, tangles, and dryness. That’s enough to make you want to skip workouts altogether. And no, we do not recommend doing this. Instead, you can just follow a few simple tips and tricks to keep your curls healthy.
How Does Sweat Impact Curly Hair?
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Sweat is full of salt, which can dry out your strands and make them feel brittle. The added moisture raises the hair’s cuticle which means frizz town all the way. On top of that, all the friction from working out can lead to tangles and breakage. If don’t keep your scalp clean, there’ll be nasty buildup on your scalp which means two things: itchiness and irritation.
So, How to Deal With Curly Hair Post Workout?
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Remove your hair from the hair tie, scrunchie, and hair band it’s in. Remove any bobby pins and clips as well. Let it air dry. Don’t touch your fingers to your curls during this stage as it will just cause more frizz and breakage.
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Once your scalp is dry, flip your head over and gently shake out your roots with your fingers.
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Now time to rehydrate your curls. Sweat can dry out your hair. Add some water to a spray bottle. Take a small amount of lightweight leave-in conditioner in your palm and scrunch it into your curls. You can also use a curl cream or oil. Finger coil your curls to reshape during this step. If your curls seem hydrated, you can skip this step.
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If your scalp feels sweaty and oily, you’ll need to use a dry shampoo or a scalp refresher spray. If you don’t like dry shampoo, lightly mist your scalp with 1 part aloe vera juice with 3 parts water in a spray bottle. You can also add a few drops of tea tree or peppermint oil.
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Use a diffuser on low heat to dry your hair.
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If you had a super sweaty sesh but just got done with wash day, the steps above are not going to be enough to refresh your curls. You’ll need to do a quick rinse with water or a co-wash (conditioner wash) instead. Shampooing too often can dry out your curls. Stick to shampooing every 5 days or once a week. Pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt.
Pre-Workout Curly Hair Routine
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Make sure your hair is dry before you go to the gym. Working out with wet or damp hair is a recipe for frizz. Make sure your hair is completely dry before you hit the gym.
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Sweat can dry out your curls, so apply a small amount of lightweight leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil to lock in moisture. Focus more on the ends. Don’t overuse any product as this will just buildup on your scalp and cause you to sweat more.
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Choose sweatproof curly hairstyles that won’t impact your curl shape. Our favorites are the pineapple and mid bun. Use scrunchies or crease-free hair ties when tying. If there’s still hair sticking to your neck, use a sweatband. If you’re working out outdoors, wear a hat.
FAQs
Can I wear a hat while working out?
Yes, but choose a satin-lined or loose-fitting hat to avoid friction and frizz.
What’s the best way to sleep on my curls after a workout?
Use a silk or satin pillowcase or wear a satin bonnet to keep your curls smooth overnight.
Should I avoid workouts that make me sweat a lot?
No way! Sweat is natural. Just follow a good hair routine to keep your curls fresh and healthy.
What if my curls get super tangled after a workout?
Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle, starting from the ends. A little leave-in conditioner helps, too.
How do I stop my scalp from getting buildup if I work out daily?
Try a gentle scalp scrub or clarifying shampoo once a week to remove sweat and product residue.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! A few simple steps and your curls will stay fresh, defined, and healthy. And the best part, you don’t need to skip workouts.
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