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Pre-Swim
Post-Swim
Skincare Routine
Chlorine Protection
Pre-Swim
Post-Swim
Skincare Routine
Chlorine Protection
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Manya Makhija is a beauty writer, marketing professional & author of two books, featured in The Lab Mag & Who Wore What, with a love for trends.
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Swimming can be fun, especially during summer when the whole family can enjoy it together! However, you do not want to be left with dry, flaky skin after your time in the water. The sun and the chlorine in swimming pools or the sun and the salt water (if you are at a beach) can leave your skin feeling icky and tanned if not sunburned. Whether you love a morning swim to energize your day or a relaxing dip to cool off in the evening, taking care of your skin is essential. If you are a water baby and want to sail through summer with good skin, here are some essential things to do before swimming and what to do after swimming to keep your skin healthy and glowing
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Taking a good shower and soaking yourself fully before you jump into a swimming pool is an often overlooked yet crucial step. When you saturate your skin with clean water before entering the pool, it reduces the chances of your skin soaking up chlorine and other pool chemicals. This is especially important for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, as pool water can be harsh on the skin barrier. A pre-swim rinse also helps remove sweat, dirt, or product buildup from your skin, which can react with chlorine and cause irritation.
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Before stepping into the water, applying a protective layer on your skin can help minimize damage. Natural oils like coconut oil or almond oil create a barrier that prevents excessive water loss and shields the skin from the harsh effects of chlorine and saltwater. A lightweight, water-resistant moisturizer with ceramides is also a great option to maintain skin hydration.
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Whether you are swimming in a pool or at the beach, your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays. Always protect your skin from the sun and the chlorine in pools, salt, and other pollutants in the sea by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher. Look for sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as they are highly effective yet gentle on the skin. Waterproof or water-resistant formulas are ideal for swimming as they do not wash off easily. Reapply every two hours or immediately after drying off.
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Once you're out of the water, it's essential to rinse off any residual chlorine, salt, or other contaminants sitting on your skin. A shower with a mild, sulfate-free body cleanser will help remove impurities while maintaining the skin's pH balance. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of natural oils, so opt for hydrating formulas with aloe vera or oat extracts for soothing effects.
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After cleansing, lock in hydration by applying a good-quality moisturizer. Chlorine and saltwater can strip moisture from the skin, making it prone to dryness and irritation. Use a body lotion enriched with hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or glycerin to restore moisture. For your face, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer that replenishes hydration without clogging pores.
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While lounging poolside with a drink in hand may seem like the perfect way to unwind, drying off under the sun isn't recommended. Sun exposure immediately after a swim can amplify the drying effects of chlorine and salt, leading to redness, irritation, and dehydration. Instead, pat yourself dry with a soft cotton towel, reapply SPF, and then relax in the shade.
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Regular swimming can lead to a buildup of chlorine, sweat, and dead skin cells. To keep your skin smooth and refreshed, incorporate a gentle exfoliating scrub into your routine twice a week. Avoid harsh physical scrubs; instead, use chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) that help resurface the skin without causing microtears.
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Skincare isn't just about what you apply on the surface—what you consume also matters. Drink plenty of water before and after swimming to keep your skin hydrated from within. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens, can also help protect your skin from environmental damage.
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If you swim frequently, incorporating a soothing face mask into your post-swim routine can help replenish lost moisture. Look for masks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or chamomile, which provide deep hydration and calm any irritation caused by chlorine or saltwater exposure. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy swimming without worrying about the toll it takes on your skin. Whether it's things to do before swimming or what to do after swimming, a consistent skincare routine will help you maintain a soft, radiant complexion all summer long!
Before swimming, apply a waterproof sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from UV rays. You can also use a protective barrier cream to help guard against chlorine and saltwater exposure.
To protect your skin from chlorine damage, apply a thick layer of a waterproof barrier cream or oil to lock in moisture. Consider using a swim cap to protect your hair, and rinse your skin with fresh water before swimming to reduce chlorine absorption.
After swimming, rinse your skin immediately with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt. Follow up with a rich moisturizer to replenish lost moisture and soothe your skin. Opt for lotions or creams with nourishing ingredients like shea butter or aloe vera.
It's best to shower as soon as possible after swimming to wash off chlorine, salt, or sweat. This helps prevent skin irritation and dryness while also keeping your skin clean and healthy.
Yes, swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater can cause skin rashes or irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Prolonged exposure to chlorine can lead to dryness, redness, and itching.
