It’s the season to swim! But keep these skincare tips handy

Keep these expert-recommended pre and post swimming skincare tips in mind to avoid facing side effects on your skin health.
water aerobics
You might wanna ditch gym to try water aerobics this summer! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Updated: 4 Apr 2022, 19:04 pm IST
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Summer time is also swimming time! But don’t forget that the chlorine present in the swimming pool can be harsh on your skin Yes, that’s true! While chlorine is added to water to kill germs, but over-exposure to it can dry out the skin and cause irritation and itchiness. Don’t lose hope here! You can still swim and protect your skin. Just stick to these pre and post swimming skincare tips that can protect your skin against the negative impact of chlorine.

In her recent Instagram post, celebrity dermatologist Dr Jaishree Sharad, has shared some basic yet effective skin care tips that everyone should follow before going to the pool and after coming out of it.

These are some skin problems caused by swimming pool water:

Dry skin: One of the most common skin problems that tops this list is dry skin. Your skin can get dry, irritated, and even itchy. And guess what, dry skin can also contribute to ageing.

swimming skincare tips
You don’t want to add to your skincare problems so try these tips. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Rashes: When you are exposed to chlorine for long hours, it can make your skin itchy, or even lead to rashes. Rashes can appear on anyone due to chemical sensitivity.

Burns: Swimming long hours in the pool, especially in summer, can also cause sunburns on your skin. However, it can be prevented easily.

Let’s find out the pre and post swimming skincare routine that you must follow:

1. Use a moisturizer

A moisturizer is really very essential if you want to reduce the impact of swimming water on your skin. Applying it before going to the pool will not prevent dryness but will also create a protective layer on your skin. “Use a moisturizer that contains dimethicone, glycerin, oils, or petrolatum, on your skin both before and after a swim,” suggests Dr Sharad.

2. Do not forget the sunscreen

Make sure you apply the sunscreen after applying the moisturizer on your skin.
Dr Sharad suggests using waterproof sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before getting into a pool. Also, re-apply it every two hours. And look for a water based sunscreen so that it won’t wash off in the pool water.

3. Under eye sunscreen

Most people apply sunscreen under the eyes. But avoid applying it under and wear well fitted swimming glasses instead.

swimming skincare tips
Using the right sunscreen correctly is important to protect you from being sunburnt. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

4. Swimming cap

While taking care of your skin, do not forget to protect your hair. Don’t step into the pool without a well-fitted swimming cap. It will also help you to avoid your loose hair strands from floating away too!

5. Take a shower

After swimming, take a shower immediately to rinse off the chlorine from your skin. You can use a mild cleanser to clean your skin, before taking a proper bath.

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6. Moisturize

Post shower, do not skip the moisturizer. Moisturizing your skin liberally will prevent your skin from getting dry out due to chlorine.

Dr Sharad also advises that you should avoid swimming between 10 AM and 4 PM. The best time to swim is early morning or post sunset.

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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