Skin care tips: How to protect your skin before and after swimming

Swimming is one of the best physical exercises. Enjoying a sunny day in your best swimsuit is all you need to feel relaxed. However, chlorine causes bad effects on the skin that can be dangerous, if you are a regular swimmer. Therefore, it is always advised to prep your skin before diving into the pool or even after you are done swimming. Chlorine can affect your scalp and can even turn your skin dark. You may even feel itchiness on your skin. Here is a list of ways you can protect your skin after swimming.

Prepare your skin with barrier cream

Dr.Este Williams, a board-certified dermatologist suggest that Chlorine is added to swimming pools to disinfect and prevent the rise of bacterial and protozoan diseases. The caustic nature of chlorine is the cause of irritant contact dermatitis namely red, dry, itchy skin. Williams recommends that prepping your skin with barrier cream can help to avoid that uncomfortable itch and redness. Look for products that contain glycerine, oils or petroleum.

Shower and moisturise immediately after the swim

Do not delay to take a shower post-swim as this can be really bad for your skin. Dr.Kristina Goldenberg, board-certified dermatologist advises that do not let chlorinated water be on your skin for too long. Use a mild body cleanser, as it will help restores the skin’s pH balance after you are exposed to the pool chemicals, as per the American Academy of Dermatology. After rinsing off, apply a moisturiser to hydrate your skin.

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Don’t air dry

After a good swim, lying down near the pool feels good but it may not be a good idea. Dr.Kristina informs that it is believed that air-drying can lead to serious skin damages. According to Goldenberg, air-drying will lead to more dryness of the skin. She recommends that after a swim, you must rinse off with clean water and dry yourself with a clean cotton towel. Also, do not forget to apply sunscreen.

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Don’t forget your face

Swimming does not cause any breakouts on your skin. However, it can cause drying of your skin and irritation on the face and rest of the body. According to a medical journal, hydration before and after swimming is an essential key to good skin.  Also, remember to rinse your face post-swim immediately.

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Exfoliate

If you are someone who swims regularly and finds your skin damaging consistently, then you should exfoliate your body regularly. Scrub your face and body at least two or three times a week. It allows you to get rid of dead skin and any chemical that is settled upon your skin. Often these chemicals build-ups lead to major skin damages.

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