POST-WORKOUT HAIR ADVICE

There’s nothing like a good sweat session to leave you feeling invigorated and healthy. Unfortunately, your hair might not agree with that. Gym hair, whether caused be a hot yoga class or a run in the park, is a common problem. We’re talking hair that looks (and smells) a little worse for the wear when you’re done getting your exercise on. It’s the age old question of what do you do with your hair after a workout?

We don’t all have time to shower and style post-workout, but we also don’t want to show up to work or a dinner date or really anywhere with stinky, tangled hair. And, since skipping a workout isn’t really an option, it’s key to find a way to keep your usual exercise routine without looking like a hot mess.

Pantene to the rescue! We asked women what their biggest post-workout hair problems were, then had Pantene professional stylist Justin German offer easy solutions to solve them. Keep reading for his styling solutions to get rid of everything from stinky strands to ponytail creases.

Problem: Sweaty, Dirty Strands

Problem: Tangles

Tangles happen when your hair isn’t pulled up and/or back when you exercise, as the constant movement and sweat accumulation will cause hair to clump together and snarl. For those with long hair, Justin advises throwing it into a braid or a loose ponytail and, when you are done working out, spraying dry shampoo at the roots and giving hair a quick blast of cool air with your blowdryer. For short hair, clip any bangs or face-framing pieces into barrettes, or use a thin headband to push it all back. Justin says post-workout he would follow the same steps as for long hair, spraying dry shampoo at the roots and blasting with your dryer on a cool setting.

Problem: Style Meltdown

Problem: Frizz

Problem: Ponytail Crease

Problem: A Funky Smell

Problem: A Basic Ponytail Is Your Go-To Post-Workout Style

If your usual solution to gym hair is just to throw it into a haphazard ponytail and call it a day, Justin says you’re missing out on a wealth of styling options. “Luckily, undone hair is still in,” says Justin. Try an undone topknot, a high ponytail, or a half-up half-down look. For all three looks, all you need is a brush, an elastic band, and a couple of bobby pins.

Just as you take care of your body and follow a routine, so should you do the same for your post-workout hair. Says Justin, “Pack your gym bag with your essential tools and products — dry shampoo, elastic bands, a brush, your anti-frizz products, and your detangling spray. Better to have what you need to refresh your hair than to go light on your workout.”