Perhaps you’re a new swimmer and would like to know a little more about swimming – or maybe you’re an experienced one and would like to learn more about the sport. However, before taking the next dive into the pool, there are a few things you should know.
Skin care for swimmers is a topic we don’t often consider before going into the pool. Chlorine and other pool contaminants can dry out your skin. As you step out of the pool into the sunlight, your skin is further exposed to UV radiation. And therefore, you need to do extra things to protect your skin before, during, and after swimming. Thankfully, there are quite a few ways to prevent this from happening and protect your skin before and after swimming.
How the pool water affects your skin?
Whether you’re taking swimming lessons or simply taking a dip in the pool to ward off the summer heat, keeping your skin protected from chlorine is necessary. Chlorine is added to pool water to get rid of bacteria. However, its harsh chemical bleach can damage your skin. Prolonged contact with chlorinated water can harm skin tissues, deplete natural oils, and result in dry, flaky skin. It can also accelerate skin aging and cause wrinkles and acne breakouts.
Natural oils in your skin help it stay hydrated and smooth. Chlorine destroys these oils, leaving you with dry skin, rashes, and, in severe cases, burns. Chlorine removes essential oils from your skin and opens your pores, resulting in dry skin. Prolonged chlorine exposure can produce rashes on your skin, which can evolve into blisters if they come into contact with more chlorine.
What is the importance of a skincare routine for swimmers?
Swimming is an excellent exercise but can also be hard on your skin. Your exposed skin is vulnerable to the chemicals in pool water and the harmful UV rays from the sun. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and even rashes on your face and body. Therefore, following before and after swimming skin care tips for healthy skin is essential.
Before swimming skin care tips
- Shower: Shower before entering the pool to ensure that your skin cells are properly hydrated and absorb less chlorinated water.
- Apply sunscreen: Choose a water-resistant sunscreen that forms a protective barrier on your skin. Spread it out for at least 15 minutes before entering the pool to allow it to absorb.
- Stay hydrated: Carry a bottle of water along the poolside and sip water every 15-20 minutes.
After swimming skin care tips
- Shower with warm water: Don’t let chlorine water dry on your skin. Immediately after getting out of the pool, take a warm water shower followed by a cold one to close your skin’s open pores.
- Moisturize: Apply a deeply nourishing moisturizer or lotion immediately after drying yourself to retain all the moisture in your skin.
- Exfoliate: Do this once or twice a week to remove built-up debris and dead skin from your face and body, and use a mild scrub.
Takeaways
Skin care for swimmers is more than just having attractive, healthy skin. If you’re a swimmer or spend a lot of time in the pool, you should take extra steps to protect your skin. Furthermore, if your pool contains too much chlorine, you could develop chlorine burns, so check your pool’s chlorine levels regularly. On the other hand, everybody has a different skin type, and it is best to consult a dermatologist. Visit Skin and Hair Academy to learn more about your skin type and the proper skin care.
