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. Without proper swimming skin care , it can lead to dry, itchy skin , and even inflammation over time. 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...
01Before Swimming Skin Care Tips
Take a shower Before Swimming
Before diving into the pool, make sure to rinse off thoroughly—it's not just a rule, it's smart swimming skin care. Soaking your skin and hair in clean water helps saturate the cells, making them less likely to absorb harsh chlorinated water. This simple step acts as a protective barrier, reducing the risk of dryness, irritation , and itchiness after your swim. It's one of the easiest yet most effective ways to safeguard your skin.
Apply waterproof sunscreen Before Swimming
Whether you're swimming or just lounging poolside, applying sunscreen is non-negotiable. Choose a water-resistant formula that stays put in the pool and forms a protective barrier against harsh UV rays. For maximum effectiveness, apply it at least 15 minutes before entering the water to allow proper absorption. This crucial step helps prevent sunburn, irritation , and long-term skin damage , making it an essential part of any pre-swim skincare routine, especially for the face.
Hydrate Your Body Inside- Out Before the Swim
It's easy to forget to drink water when you're in the pool, but staying hydrated is essential—especially during physical activities like swimming. Keep a water bottle by your side and take a sip every 15-20 minutes to ensure you're replenishing fluids. Hydration not only helps maintain your body's balance but also keeps your skin's natural moisture intact, preventing dryness and irritation. Remember, drinking water is just as important as your pre-swim skincare routine.
Apply a Protective Barrier on Your Skin
In addition to sunscreen, applying a thin layer of coconut oil or a light moisturizer before swimming can offer extra protection against chlorine damage. If you're wondering what to apply to your body before swimming, this layer acts as a protective barrier, shielding your skin from the drying effects of harsh pool chemicals. It helps lock in moisture and keeps your skin smooth and hydrated throughout your swim.
Use a Nourishing Hair Mask Before You Dive In
Before you dive into the pool, a deep conditioning treatment can work wonders to protect your hair from chlorine damage. Applying a nourishing mask like the LBP Argan Oil & Lavender Hair Mask helps lock in moisture, keeping your hair hydrated and preventing dryness or brittleness. This crucial step is a must if you're wondering what to do before swimming to maintain healthy, strong hair throughout the swim.
02Post Swimming Skin Care Routine
Take a Warm Water Shower After Swimming
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. This is one of the most important things to do after swimming to prevent skin irritation and dryness.
Moisturise Deeply After Every Swim
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. This is especially important when thinking about what to do after swimming to maintain soft, healthy skin.
Exfoliate Gently to Remove Chlorine Build-Up
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. Exfoliation helps in getting rid of any residual chlorine or chemicals that might still be sitting on your skin.
Use a Hydrating Face Mask
After swimming, your skin can feel dry and tight. Using a hydrating face mask will help replenish lost moisture. Look for masks with ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or cucumber to soothe your skin. If you're thinking what to apply on face before swimming, using a pre-swim hydrating gel can help prevent excessive drying.
Cleanse and Protect Your Hair After Swimming
Chlorine can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. Rinse your hair with clean water before swimming to prevent it from absorbing too much chlorine. After swimming, use a mild shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and restore moisture. Applying a leave-in conditioner can also help protect your strands from damage.
Choose Loose Clothing to Let Skin Breathe
After swimming, opt for breathable fabrics like cotton to let your skin relax. Tight, synthetic clothes may cause irritation, especially if your skin is still damp from the pool water. Giving your skin time to breathe after exposure to chlorine is one of the best things to do after swimming for overall comfort. By following these pre and post-swimming skincare tips, you can enjoy your time in the pool without worrying about damaging your skin or hair. With the right precautions and care, swimming can remain a fun, refreshing, and skin-friendly activity!
03Do’s and DON’Ts of Swimming Skin Care
DOs:
- Apply waterproof sunscreen 15–20 minutes before swimming: This helps protect your skin from both UV rays and harsh pool chemicals.
- Rinse off before and after your swim: A pre-swim shower helps reduce chlorine absorption; post-swim, it washes away chemical residue.
- Hydrate your skin and hair well: Use a light, water-based moisturizer or hair serum before swimming, and rehydrate thoroughly afterward to replenish lost moisture.
DON'Ts:
- Don't exfoliate right after swimming: Chlorine makes skin sensitive; exfoliating immediately can cause irritation or micro-tears.
- Don't skip post-swim moisturizing: Chlorine strips natural oils, so always follow up with a nourishing body lotion or cream.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes on damp skin: Tight clothing on wet, chlorine-exposed skin can cause friction, leading to rashes or irritation.
04FAQs
Q. How can I protect my hair from chlorine damage while swimming?
A. Wet your hair with clean water before swimming and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a protective barrier. Wearing a swim cap can also minimize exposure to chlorine.
Q. How soon should I shower after swimming?
A. It's best to shower immediately after swimming to rinse off chlorine and other pool chemicals. This helps prevent skin irritation and dryness.
Q. Can I apply sunscreen before swimming in an indoor pool?
A. Yes, even if you're swimming indoors, UV rays can penetrate through windows. Additionally, a water-resistant sunscreen can help create a protective layer against chlorine.
Q. Should I moisturize immediately after swimming?
A. Yes, applying a deep hydrating moisturizer right after showering helps lock in moisture and prevent dryness caused by chlorine exposure.
Q. How often should I exfoliate after swimming?
A. Exfoliate only once or twice a week to remove chlorine buildup and dead skin cells. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness.
