Swimming is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable forms of physical exercise. It, therefore, comes as no surprise that this is one of the most popular summer activities. However, chlorine, which is commonly used to kill bacteria and germs in pools, can wreak havoc on your skin. The next time you feel like going for a dip, it helps to learn a few tips on how to protect skin from chlorine in pool.
How Does Swimming Affect Your Skin?
Chlorine keeps your pool clean by keeping germs and bacteria at bay, but it can also strip your skin of natural oils. This can lead to problems such as:
• Dry skin
• Itching and rashes
• Premature aging caused by protein damage and dryness
• Acne caused by pore clogging and excessive oil production
• Sun damage resulting from weakening of the skin
• Excessive oil production to make up for the stripped oil
However, custom pool builder pros at Blue Pools Dallas mention that taking a few precautionary measures can tip the scales in your favor. Swimming is also a form of exercise that can help to detoxify your skin.
Protecting Your Skin from Chlorine
Use a Sunscreen
Sunscreens do more than just prevent sunburns and tanning. The lotion will create a protective layer on your skin that will prevent excessive sun damage and keep the chlorine from drying your skin out excessively. Some pre-swimming lotions are also specially formulated to retain skin moisture and block chlorine. Apply the products about 10 to 15 minutes before you swim to give your skin sufficient time to absorb the products and form a strong barrier.
Take a Shower Before and After Swimming
Most public pools require you to take a shower before a dip, which may seem like a bit of a drag. Nonetheless, in addition to keeping the pool from getting dirty, taking a shower before a swim will also help to hydrate your skin cells. If your skin is already wet, it will absorb less chlorinated water. Be sure to remove any makeup before swimming as chlorine may react with chemicals in your makeup and cause an allergic reaction.
Showering after leaving the pool removes any residual chlorine and any other chemicals left on your skin thus preventing dryness or contracting a rash. Consider starting your shower with warm water to open up your skin pores for thorough cleansing and finish off with cool water to help tighten the pores and prevent the loss of moisture. Use a gentle soap to clean your body but don’t let the water run too hot as that will dry out your skin.
Moisturize Your Skin
Keeping your skin hydrated is one of the most critical parts of a swimmer’s skincare routine. Invest in a good hydrating moisturizer and use it regularly to maintain healthy and well-hydrated skin.
Bottom Line
Whether you swim once in a while, only during summer or regularly, it’s important to have an active skincare routine. These tips will help you to not only know how to protect skin from chlorine in pool, but also improve the health of your skin. You’ll simply just have to wear sunscreen, take a shower before and after you swim, and to moisturize your skin.