Swimming is one of the most fun and therapeutic forms of physical exercise that offers many health benefits. But the chlorine loaded pool water isn’t particularly healthy for your hair and skin. It can lead to dry and itchy skin, even inflammation, at times.
We know how much you enjoy this activity, so you can continue to take a dip every day with these pre and post-swimming skin care tips. Read on to find out…
Pre swim tips
Take a shower

Most pools require you to take a shower before taking a dip. Don’t skip this important step and ensure that you thoroughly get your hair and skin wet. Once your skin cells are properly hydrated they will absorb less chlorinated water.
Apply sunscreen

Applying sunscreen is a basic beauty step every swimmer and non-swimmer needs to follow. Look for a water-proof sunscreen what won’t wash off in the pool water and will form a protective barrier on your skin. Spread it at least 15 minutes prior to getting in the pool, this gives the sunscreen enough time to get absorbed.
Stay hydrated

It is natural to feel less thirsty when you’re in the pool but don’t dehydrate yourself, especially during a physical activity. Carry a bottle of water along the pool side and keep sipping water every 15-20 minutes.
Post swim tips
Warm water shower

Don’t let the chlorine water dry on your skin. As soon as you step out of the pool, take a warm water shower, thoroughly cleansing your hair and skin. Before stepping out of the shower, finish with a last rinse of cold water as this will help close the opened pores on your skin.
Moisturise

Immediately after drying yourself, apply some deep nourishing moisturiser or lotion to retain all the moisture in the skin. The Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Soothe Body Lotion does the trick for us. It restores skin’s moisture and it contains aloe vera that soothes skin post swimming like no other.
Exfoliate

Follow this step only once or twice a week. Use a gentle scrub to remove built up dirt and dead skin from your face and body. It will give you smooth and soft skin immediately.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on 30th Oct 2018
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.