Is your child a little fish who loves spending hours in the pool? While swimming is fantastic for their health and fun, chlorine can be pretty harsh on their delicate hair. It can leave it dry, brittle, tangled, and sometimes even give it that dreaded green tint! That’s why finding the best shampoo for swimmers kids isn’t just a luxury – it’s a necessity.
We know how tough it can be to navigate the endless options out there. You want something effective at removing chlorine and protecting their hair, but also gentle enough for their sensitive scalps. Don’t worry, we’ve done the deep dive for you! We’ve rounded up seven top-notch after-swim shampoos specifically designed to tackle chlorine damage, keep their hair soft, and bring back that healthy shine.
Let’s get those little locks looking fabulous again!
Our Top Picks for the Best Shampoo for Swimmers Kids
1. SoCozy Kids Swim 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash
This 3-in-1 powerhouse is a lifesaver for busy parents and active kids! SoCozy created a fantastic all-in-one solution that not only tackles chlorine and those annoying green tones but also cleanses their body, making post-swim showers a breeze. Its unique blend of activated charcoal, jojoba oil, and coffee seed extract works wonders to moisturize and restore hydration without stripping away natural oils.
Key Features:
- 3-in-1 formula: Shampoo, Conditioner & Body Wash
- Gently removes green tones and chlorine without stripping hair
- Ultra-moisturizing with Activated Charcoal, Jojoba Oil & Coffee Seed Extract
- Salon-quality formula developed by Cozy Friedman
- Free of Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Synthetic Colors/Dyes & Propylene Glycol
- Convenient and travel-friendly
Pros:
- Incredibly convenient for travel and quick showers
- Effectively removes chlorine and prevents green hair
- Leaves hair feeling soft, silky, and hydrated
- Gentle on sensitive skin and scalp
- Free from harsh chemicals
Cons:
- Some users might prefer separate shampoo and conditioner for very specific hair needs
User Impressions: Parents rave about the sheer convenience and effectiveness of this product. Kids love that it’s quick, and parents love that it actually works to keep their children’s hair healthy and manageable after swimming. Many noted the pleasant scent and how soft it left their children’s hair.
2. Fairy Tales Swim Shampoo 12oz and Conditioner 8oz
The Fairy Tales Swim line is a beloved choice for a reason – it truly understands swimmer’s hair! This dynamic duo, featuring a shampoo and conditioner, is expertly formulated to combat the damaging effects of chlorine, sea salts, and minerals. It’s packed with natural ingredients like grapefruit peel oil and pineapple fruit extract to gently clarify, hydrate, and detangle, making it a complete system for post-swim hair repair. It’s even “Allure Magazine” approved and safe for the whole family!
Key Features:
- Complete sun, beach, and pool hair care system (shampoo and conditioner)
- Hydrates, conditions, and detangles dry, brittle hair
- Natural clarifying ingredients: grapefruit peel oil, orange flower extract, pineapple fruit extract
- Removes green tones from chlorine and damaging minerals
- Chelating shampoo that’s color-safe for adults too
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and nut-free
Pros:
- Highly effective at removing chlorine and preventing green hair
- Natural and gentle ingredients, suitable for sensitive skin
- Excellent for detangling and moisturizing post-swim hair
- Family-friendly and color-safe
- Leaves hair feeling clean and soft
Cons:
- Requires two separate bottles, might not be ideal for minimalists
User Impressions: This set is consistently praised for its ability to transform chlorine-damaged hair. Users love how well it removes the chlorine smell and green tint, leaving hair soft, shiny, and easy to comb through. Many parents appreciate that it’s free of common allergens and harsh chemicals.
3. Fairy Tales Swim Shampoo for Kids – 12 oz
From the same trusted Fairy Tales brand, this standalone Swim Shampoo focuses purely on powerful, yet gentle, cleansing. It’s specifically designed to clarify and remove the elements that wreak havoc on young swimmers’ hair – think chlorine, salt, and minerals. Infused with natural extracts, it gets rid of that crunchy, dry feeling and helps prevent green hair, preparing the hair perfectly for conditioning.
Key Features:
- Specially formulated for treatment of kids’ summertime hair care
- Gently clarifies all hair types with natural ingredients like grapefruit peel oil and pineapple fruit extract
- Effectively removes green from chlorine hair, sea salts, and minerals
- Gentle yet effective chelating shampoo
- Color-safe and suitable for the whole family
- Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, and nut-free
Pros:
- Strong clarifying action to combat chlorine and mineral buildup
- Natural ingredients are gentle on hair and scalp
- Helps prevent and remove green hair discoloration
- Safe for sensitive skin and hair types
Cons:
- Best results when paired with a conditioner (sold separately) for complete moisture replenishment
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight this shampoo’s efficiency in removing chlorine residue and its distinctive scent. It’s a go-to for many who want a focused clarifying wash that still uses natural, gentle ingredients, often noting its effectiveness even without the matching conditioner.
4. Malibu C Swimmers Wellness Shampoo and Conditioner + Hair Treatment
For serious swimmers whose hair faces constant exposure to harsh pool chemicals, the Malibu C Swimmers Wellness system is a game-changer. This comprehensive collection goes beyond simple cleansing, offering a three-step regimen with a dedicated shampoo, conditioner, and unique treatment crystals. It’s designed to not only remove impurities but deeply restore vital moisture and strength, making it one of the most effective solutions for preventing and repairing chlorine hair damage.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive collection for dry and damaged hair from chlorine or ocean water
- Removes damage and impurities, replenishes moisture, and improves manageability
- Antioxidant & plant-based protein ingredients (allantoin, provitamin B5, flax protein, macadamia oil)
- Restores hair texture and prevents brittle hair
- Includes unique Swimmers Wellness Treatment Crystals for targeted repair
- 100% vegan, eco-friendly, cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free & plant-based
Pros:
- Professional-grade treatment for severe chlorine exposure
- Deeply hydrates and strengthens hair from root to tip
- Highly effective at removing green discoloration and restoring texture
- Clean, vegan, and environmentally friendly formulation
- Leaves hair exceptionally soft, shiny, and tangle-free
Cons:
- More steps involved than a typical wash, might be time-consuming for some
- Higher price point due to its specialized nature
User Impressions: This set is a favorite among competitive swimmers and parents of kids who are in the pool daily. Users consistently report significant improvements in hair health, shine, and texture, often calling it the “only thing that works” for severely damaged or green hair. The treatment crystals are particularly praised for their transformative effects.
5. Evereden After Swim & Sports Kids Shampoo
Evereden’s After Swim & Sports Kids Shampoo offers a unique approach to post-activity hair care, utilizing Green Kaolin Clay for gentle yet deep detoxification. This innovative ingredient, combined with Provitamin B5, works wonders to cleanse away chlorine, sweat, and dirt without stripping hair’s essential moisture. It’s pediatrician and dermatologist-tested, ensuring it’s not just effective but also incredibly safe and gentle for children’s delicate hair and scalp.
Key Features:
- Deep & gentle cleansing with Green Kaolin Clay to detox hair from chlorine, sweat, & dirt
- Balances scalp without excess oil and protects moisture with Kaolin Clay and Provitamin B5
- Strengthens and repairs hair, fights frizz, and adds shine with Plant Protein Peptides and Argan Oil
- Formulated for daily use by the whole family (children 3+)
- Made in USA, pediatrician & dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic & free of toxins
Pros:
- Unique clay-based formula for effective detoxification
- Focuses on balancing scalp health and moisture
- Strengthens hair and reduces frizz
- Extremely gentle, safe for sensitive skin, and toxin-free
- Can be used by the whole family
Cons:
- While moisturizing, very dry hair might still benefit from a separate conditioner
User Impressions: Parents appreciate the gentle yet powerful cleansing provided by the clay, noting how effectively it removes chlorine smell and residue without causing dryness. Many highlight its suitability for sensitive scalps and the healthy shine it imparts to their children’s hair.
6. TRISWIM Kids Chlorine Removal Shampoo 8.5oz
TRISWIM is a brand well-known in the swimming community, and their Kids Chlorine Removal Shampoo lives up to that reputation. This shampoo is specifically engineered to gently and effectively wash away chlorine, bromine, salt water, and hard water minerals. What sets it apart for kids is its delightful Lime + Tropical Mango scent, making hair washing a more enjoyable experience, plus its focus on soothing dry, itchy scalps with Chamomile and Watercress.
Key Features:
- Gently removes chlorine, bromine, salt water, and hard water minerals
- Eliminates harsh chemical odors and green tint caused by copper
- Soothes dry, itchy scalp with Chamomile and Watercress
- Nourishes & strengthens hair with Aloe Vera, Vitamin A, and Pro Vitamin B5 (Panthenol)
- Kid-friendly Light Lime + Tropical Mango scent
- Safe for daily use after pool, ocean, or bath time
Pros:
- Highly effective at neutralizing chlorine and removing green tint
- Pleasant, kid-friendly scent that masks chlorine odors
- Specifically formulated to soothe irritated scalps
- Nourishing ingredients promote healthy hair growth and shine
- Gentle enough for daily use
Cons:
- For best results, it’s highly recommended to pair with TRISWIM’s conditioner (sold separately)
User Impressions: This shampoo is a consistent hit with both kids and parents. Children love the fun tropical scent, making them more willing to wash their hair, while parents praise its exceptional ability to remove chlorine smell and prevent green hair. Many also noted its effectiveness in calming an irritated scalp.
7. California Baby Swimmer’s Defense Baby Wash + Baby Shampoo
For the most sensitive skin and youngest swimmers, California Baby’s Swimmer’s Defense Baby Wash + Baby Shampoo is an outstanding choice. This 2-in-1 product is not only a fantastic chlorine removal shampoo but also a gentle body wash, making it perfect for babies and toddlers. What truly makes it stand out is its commitment to purity: it’s USDA Certified 100% Bio-Based, meaning all ingredients are plant-based, and it’s free of common allergens. The lovely floral scent from gardenia and lemongrass is a natural bonus!
Key Features:
- 2-in-1 Chlorine Removal Body Wash + Shampoo
- Gently washes out chlorine and saltwater, rebalances hair’s natural pH
- Moisturizes, revitalizes, and softens post-swim hair with organic calendula extract and aloe vera
- USDA Certified 100% Bio-Based and 100% plant-based ingredients
- Sulfate-free, free of harsh chemicals & petroleum ingredients
- Beautiful natural floral scent from gardenia flowers and lemongrass essential oils
- Hypoallergenic, allergy-tested, and free of gluten, soy, sesame, oat, dairy, peanuts, and tree nuts (except coconut)
Pros:
- Extremely gentle and safe for babies, toddlers, and highly sensitive skin
- Truly natural and organic ingredients, free from common allergens
- Effectively removes chlorine and rebalances pH
- Moisturizes both skin and hair
- Lovely, natural scent that eliminates chlorine smell
Cons:
- Might be too mild for older kids with very severe or chronic chlorine damage
- Foaming action might be less robust compared to sulfate-containing shampoos
User Impressions: This product is a top choice for parents prioritizing natural, hypoallergenic options for their little ones. Users consistently praise its gentleness, lovely scent, and effectiveness in preventing rashes and dryness, especially after prolonged pool exposure. It’s often recommended for children with eczema or other skin sensitivities.
What to Look for When Choosing the Best Shampoo for Swimmers Kids
When you’re picking out a swimmer’s hair care product for your child, it’s not just about what smells good. Here’s what savvy parents consider:
- Chlorine & Mineral Removal: This is key! Look for shampoos that specifically state they remove chlorine, bromine, salt, and hard water minerals. These are often called “chelating” shampoos.
- Moisturizing & Hydrating Ingredients: Chlorine dries out hair, so ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba oil, argan oil, provitamin B5 (panthenol), and plant proteins are essential to restore moisture and prevent brittle hair.
- Gentle & Natural Formulas: Kids’ scalps can be sensitive. Opt for formulas that are sulfate-free, paraben-free, and free from harsh dyes or synthetic fragrances. Natural extracts like citrus, chamomile, and calendula are a plus.
- Preventing Green Hair: Copper in pool water reacts with chlorine and light hair, causing a green tint. Many swimmer-specific shampoos help neutralize this reaction.
- Ease of Use: A 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 product can be a huge time-saver, especially if your child is eager to get out of the shower!
- Scent: A pleasant, kid-friendly scent can make the post-swim routine much more enjoyable and help mask the chlorine smell.
- Scalp Health: Look for ingredients that soothe an itchy scalp, like chamomile or watercress, as chlorine can be irritating.
FAQ: Keeping Your Swimmer’s Hair Healthy
Q1: Why does chlorine damage kids’ hair?
A1: Chlorine is a strong disinfectant that strips the hair and scalp of their natural oils (sebum). This leads to dryness, brittleness, split ends, and a dull appearance. It can also cause irritation to the scalp.
Q2: How does hair turn green from chlorine?
A2: It’s not the chlorine itself, but rather the copper that’s often found in pool water (from algaecides or corroding pipes) that causes hair to turn green. Chlorine oxidizes the copper, allowing it to bind to the hair shaft, especially on lighter hair colors.
Q3: How often should my child use a chlorine removal shampoo?
A3: If your child swims frequently (daily or several times a week), they should use a chlorine removal shampoo every time they wash their hair after swimming. For occasional swimmers, using it after each swim is still beneficial.
Q4: Is conditioner really necessary for swimmers’ hair?
A4: Absolutely! After using a clarifying or chlorine removal shampoo, a good conditioner is crucial. It helps to rehydrate, detangle, seal the hair cuticle, and replenish the moisture lost due to chlorine exposure. Many of the best shampoos for swimmers kids also have a matching conditioner.
Q5: What other tips can help protect my child’s hair from chlorine?
A5:
* Wet hair before swimming: Rinse hair with clean, fresh water before getting in the pool. Hair is like a sponge; it will soak up less chlorinated water if it’s already saturated.
* Apply leave-in conditioner or oil: A thin layer of leave-in conditioner, a swim-specific hair protectant, or even a light natural oil (like coconut or jojoba) can create a barrier.
* Wear a swim cap: This is the most effective physical barrier against chlorine.
* Rinse immediately after swimming: Don’t let chlorine sit on the hair. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water as soon as possible, then shampoo and condition.
Q6: Can adult chlorine removal shampoos be used on kids?
A6: While some adult formulas might be effective, it’s generally best to stick to products specifically designed for kids, especially for younger children. Kids’ shampoos are typically formulated to be milder, tear-free, and free of harsh chemicals that might irritate their more delicate skin and scalp.
Q7: What ingredients should I avoid in a shampoo for a child who swims?
A7: Try to avoid shampoos with:
* Sulfates (SLS/SLES): These can be too harsh and further strip moisture from already dry, chlorine-exposed hair.
* Parabens & Phthalates: These are preservatives and chemicals that some parents prefer to avoid in children’s products.
* Strong synthetic fragrances and dyes: These can irritate sensitive scalps.
Conclusion
Choosing the best shampoo for swimmers kids is a crucial step in maintaining their hair’s health and happiness, especially if they spend a lot of time in the water. The products we’ve reviewed offer excellent solutions, whether you’re looking for ultimate convenience, natural ingredients, professional-grade repair, or ultra-gentle care for sensitive skin.
By investing in a quality after-swim shampoo, you’re not just preventing green hair or dryness; you’re ensuring your child can enjoy their favorite activity without worry, keeping their precious locks soft, strong, and ready for their next splash!