After a run in the sun or a day spent on the windy ski slopes, I usually come home to discover that my hair is a sweaty, tangled mess. Trying to pull a comb through it only seems to make it worse, forcing me into yet another wash, which I’m pretty sure we’re not supposed to do daily, right? And considering how much of a beating our hair takes when exercising, it’s important to take good care of your hair during and after a workout.
The good news is that protecting your hair doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your fitness goals. With the right routine for your hair type and a few mess-free styling tips, you can ensure your hair and scalp stay as healthy and strong as you.
A Build-Up of Sweat Creates the Perfect Environment for Bacteria to Grow
According to Dr. Kimberly Shao, a Colorado-based dermatologist, and avid hiker and climber, when we work out, sweat sits on the scalp and increases moisture and oil, which can lead to excess fungal growth.
She explains that this kind of fungi, also called Malassezia, is a type of yeast that naturally exists on our skin. But, if it overgrows, it can lead to…