The Philip Kingsley Swimcap Water-Resistant Mask, priced at £26 for 100ml or £39 for 200ml, protects hair from chlorine, salt water, and sun damage while on holiday. It has earned a 4.8-star rating from shoppers, with one calling it “the only thing I’ll use” for protecting hair colour.
Designed for Olympic Swimmers
The mask was originally created for the US Olympic synchronised swimming team to shield their hair from constant pool exposure. It contains UV absorbers to prevent coloured hair from fading under the sun, and hydrolysed elastin to strengthen strands and guard against chlorine and salt water.
Suitable for all hair types, including chemically treated or coloured locks, it reduces the appearance of breakage by plumping each strand. Castor oil and olive oil provide extra hydration, leaving hair silky, soft, and shiny.
How to Use and Alternatives
Apply the mask to damp hair before sunbathing or swimming, then wash it out at the end of the day. Some users recommend a double shampoo to fully remove its waterproof residue.
For a budget option, Umberto Giannini’s Swim Proof Leave-in Protection Hair Cream costs £8.95 and works similarly. After washing, Sun Bum Hair Mask, with sunflower oil and banana pulp, re-hydrates dry hair. Color Wow’s Dream Coat Supernatural Spray also prevents frizz and flyaways in humidity and rain.
Shopper Reviews
One shopper said: “The only thing I’ll use for protecting my hair colour from chlorine and salt water. Have tried other products and nothing feels as good as this. Won’t be without it.” Another praised: “This product absolutely revolutionised my holiday hair! I wish I had discovered it years ago. It made my hair look great and prevented my vibrant red colour from fading with the sun, chlorine and sea. Amazing!”
However, some found it less effective: “Unfortunately, this mask didn’t work well for my hair. I have thick, long hair, and it left it feeling overly greasy. It also took several washes to remove the residue completely.” Others loved it, with one noting: “This is great as I’ve just started swimming regularly and my hair is very fine. It was getting very dry but this leaves it soft and conditioned.” Another added: “Brilliant product. Protects hair from chlorine and makes it easier to wash after swimming.”
