Diving with long hair can be challenging, here are some tips on how to cope with this tricky problem.
Loose hair underwater may look majestic and can even take you back to your childhood dreams of being a mermaid. BUT hair will always find a way to move into your field of vision and get tangled in the process.
Another very well-known issue with scuba diving with long hair relates to your mask. It can be pretty painful when putting your mask on or taking it off. In addition, even the slightest strand of hair that finds its way under your mask can cause the mask to move around and is known to cause the mask to leak.
But don't worry, we've got you covered! Herewith are some tried and tested techniques, tips, and tricks to help you tame those locks!
SALTY HAIR, DON'T CARE! KEEP IT HEALTHY!
Saltwater can be rough on your hair and tends to dry out your locks. One tip for keeping your hair healthy when scuba diving is to avoid shampooing before your dives. This will ensure your natural oils aren't stripped away and help protect your hair from damage.
Leave-in conditioner is also well known, but keep in mind to apply it well before you dive to give it time to set and not easily come off when you enter the water. We recommend using organic coconut oil, but we are also fans of the product line (https://www.sensatia.com/body/hair-care/), an eco-friendly company that cares about creating products that are safe to our oceans and kind to our reefs.
RINSE BEFORE AND AFTER YOUR DIVES
We also recommend rinsing under a cold freshwater shower before your dives, much like the one at our resort, which will help close the hair cuticles and flatten the hair. Also, remember to rinse again after your dives to get rid of all the salt in your hair.
BUFFS AND SCUBA DIVING MASKS FOR WOMEN
We recommend tucking your French braid(s) under a buff to keep it at bay. Raja Ampat waters are warm, so we don't wear hoods, but combining a buff with a silicone buckle strap helps! Aqualung has created a women's diving mask that has a tangle-free buckle system, so your hair doesn't get caught in it or pulled uncomfortably.
SCUBA DIVING WITH BANGS
Wow, we know the struggle – keeping a bang in check is not easy, but we came across this nifty little product that might help you. The Bang Wrangler is a silicone headband that sits tightly on your head.
Pro tip: Try to avoid a comb or brush, gently work through your hair after a dive and opt for finger combing your hair instead.
About Meridian Adventure Dive
Situated in Raja Ampat, Indonesia, Meridian Adventure Dive is a PADI 5 Star Resort and winner of the PADI Green Star award. Scuba divers enjoy our professional services that have become synonymous with both the PADI and Meridian Adventure names.
