“The first time I stepped into a chlorinated pool and set foot in the deep end, it reminded me of my childhood nightmare…my mum hot-combing my hair! I’m sure many black women share similar memories”.
Joanna Blake, founder of the innovative brand SwimScarf that caters for “high volume hair”, speaks about her frustrations as black woman going swimming. We had the pleasure of interviewing her to get the low down on all things hair, swimming and business.
How freeing is it knowing that you don’t have to worry about your hair when going swimming?
Swimming without worrying about hair is a great benefit of my now natural hair. I swim every week mostly during the summer season and wish I had done it all along. The Swimscarf has been a real saviour – and that goes for my customers too. I love hearing how this product has changed their lives. It’s a great feeling!
Before going swimming is there anything special you do to prep your hair?
I wear my natural hair in hair extensions. Before I put my Swimscarf on, I spritz my hair with a water-based leave-in conditioner. Then, I tie my hair in a bun at the crown, or often in a low bun, depending on the look I like.
How did you get the courage to start your business and what advice would you give to someone who is looking to start a business?
I started my business after being diagnosed with high blood pressure. The Swimscarf was inspired by my mum who wore head scarves around the home. To create the cap that would protect the hair from chlorinated water, it took about three years of developing, testing, and trials. My focus: to design a cap that not only looks great but keeps your hair dry.
Swimscarf is stylish, versatile, and durable. It’s important to find a need and want to fill it. I feel fortunate to help others who were seeking a product that would get them back into the pool and protect their hair. I was able to step in at a time when there were few resources available. My advice is to join as many network groups as possible, and to go to trade shows for ideas in your chosen field. Be polite and efficient – you never know who’s watching.
We’ve seen that you have added swim socks to your collection. Are there any plans to expand Swimscarf even more?
Yes, we have big plans for the future. Right now we’re focused on our current line of products Swimscarf and swim socks, but don’t rule out other stylish products to join the Swimscarf family in the future.
There has always been this stigma surrounding black people and swimming. Do you think innovative products such as yours will help break those stereotypes?
It’s a great question. As for the stereotypes around black people and swimming, it’s true that there are some negative stereotypes. But today we have inclusive products, and I can see change in society with people becoming more accepting of differences.
I hope to see a change in the next few years, where more black people embrace swimming and its amazing health benefits and scope for improving physical fitness. It’s just a matter of getting others on board with the positive aspects of swimming rather than focusing on the negative stereotypes.
What would you like to see more of in the natural/black hair community?
It was exciting to visit the Afro Hair and Beauty Show, and having my first stall. It made me happy to meet with so many black business owners who care and cater for our community in terms of organic, naturally sourced products. As a child growing up, we had limited resources which left our hair hard to manage. Therefore, the variety of products is a must for me. It’s important to buy from people who understand our needs – and I feel that the Swimscarf I created meets the needs of our hair.
There was a lot of discussion about the Olympics not having large enough swim caps for black swimmers. What are your thoughts on this?
It is well known that afro hair is prone to shrinkage when wet. Traditional swim caps do not adapt to the afro athlete’s head/hair shape, so it was very difficult for many athletes with afro hair to compete in the water. FINA has done a wonderful job in changing their rules on swim cap, and I hope they will also make an announcement to encourage more black people to take up swimming. No one should have to choose between protecting their hair or participating in a sport they love. Now with Swimscarf, as well as an array of afro swim cap brands, more people can focus on becoming great swimmers.
Tips for caring for hair while swimming
- Oil your hair or use a leave-in conditioner prior to swimming in order to protect your locks against chlorinated water. This prevents the strands swelling and drying out.
- Wet your hair with non-chlorinated water before your swim – together with an oil application, this prevents chlorinated water from being absorbed by your hair.
- Wear a swimming cap while swimming to provide an extra layer of protection. Make sure to choose one that is tight enough to keep water out, but not so tight that it causes pain or discomfort.
- Wash your hair with a sulphate-free shampoo post-swim to remove any chemicals in the water that may have seeped into your swimming cap.
- Avoid blow-drying your hair – this can make hair even drier, especially if you weren’t able to get all of the chemicals out of your tresses in the shower.
- Gently detangle hair with a wide-tooth comb, or leave as-is if you’re wearing a protective style.
Shop Swimscarf here.
