The chlorine in swimming pools can discolor your hair, dry it out, and cause split-ends. To protect your hair and help prevent damage, you should spray it with a leave-in conditioner as soon as you get out of the pool and then rinse and wash your hair thoroughly as soon as possible.
There are so many different ways to moisturize natural hair that one can get confused about which regimen to choose. Unfortunately there is no exact answer, and the only way to find what works best for your hair type is by trial and error. One option is to apply about a nickel-sized amount of a light lotion or cream leave-in conditioner. These are usually labeled "daily conditioner" and list water as the first ingredient. You could then seal your hair with a nickel-sized amount of grapeseed, almond, or jojoba oil--all which are very effective. Another option is to mix 1 tablespoon of the conditioner with 1 pint of distilled water and put it in a spray bottle. Spritz your hair to moisturize and then seal with the oil of your choice. Remember to concentrate mostly on your ends and to wash your hair frequently to avoid product buildup.
A lemon treatment can help remove product buildup from your hair and add a brilliant shine. To make, combine the juice from 1 large lemon with about 1 tablespoonful of conditioner. To use, first rinse your hair thoroughly with water. Second, wash your scalp (preferably with conditioner). Third, pour the lemon treatment over your head and distribute throughout your hair. Fourth, rinse your scalp and hair thoroughly with water and then condition and style as usual. A lemon treatment is a healthy and natural way to moisturize, cleanse, and clarify and can be used whenever your hair looks dry and dull.
Most shampoos contain harsh detergents that can strip hair of moisture and amino acids and make it look dry and dull. This is harmful because hair needs to retain some natural oils to protect it and the scalp. Fortunately, you can wash your hair by applying conditioner to your scalp, gently rubbing your scalp with your fingertips to wash it, and then thoroughly rinsing your hair and scalp with water. Now your hair and scalp are clean, and you may continue with your normal conditioning routine. This technique works well and is much healthier for your hair.