Do you love to dip in the pool or enjoy the refreshing splash of water to stay fit or relax? We already know the answer is yes (or else why you’d be here, right?). However relaxing it may be, it can take a toll on your skin, leaving it dry, irritated, and prone to other issues.

That’s where a dedicated skincare routine and essential skincare tips come into play. It helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of chlorine (in a pool), UV rays, and fungal infections. In this blog, we'll explore seven essential swimmers’ skincare tips to keep your skin healthy and glowing for long.

Let’s get started (swimming)!

Swimmers Skincare Tips #1: Create a Pre-Swim Barrier:

Before you plunge into the water, consider applying a layer of glycerin, oils, petroleum jelly, or a swimmer's moisturizer to elbows, knees, and ankles (basically the whole body). These products act as a protective barrier, reducing the absorption of chlorine and preventing red, dry, itchy skin from swimming.

Swimmers Skincare Tips #2: Take a Quick Shower Before the Dive

Wet skin absorbs less chlorine than dry skin. That’s why taking a quick shower before swimming becomes one of the most effective ways to minimize chlorine absorption. After rinsing off, reapply a moisturizer to restore hydration to the skin.

Swimmers Skincare Tips #3: Invest in Chlorine-Neutralising Products

After your swim, removing chlorine residue from your skin and hair is crucial. And you’d be wrong if you think that standard soap and shampoo will do the trick. Instead, invest in chlorine-neutralizing body wash and shampoo designed for swimmers. These products are specially formulated to break down and remove chlorine, leaving you feeling refreshed.

Also read: Top 5 Athletic Skincare Myths Debunked

Note:- Don’t let your body dry off in the sun, as it will further lead to skin dryness.

Swimmers Skincare Tips #4: Post-Swim Moisturizing Ritual

The body’s prolonged exposure to chlorine or salt water can leave your skin dry and irritated. You can resolve this by applying a rich moisturiser/ thick emollient (ointment) to the skin from the neck down immediately after your swim.

Swimmers Skincare Tips #5: Hydrate from Within

Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can benefit your skin, too. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and after your swim. Hydration helps your body flush toxins and keeps your skin looking and feeling confident & healthy.

Swimmers Skincare Tips #6: Shield Your Skin from the Sun

If you're swimming out in the sea or outdoor pool, remember that the sun's UV rays can harm your skin, causing sunburn and premature ageing. Before you dip in the water, apply a waterproof sunscreen of SPF 30 or more prone areas like your face, neck, and shoulders. Reapply as needed, especially if you're swimming for an extended period.

Swimmers Skincare Tips #7: Post-swim Skincare Routine

Following a post-swim skincare routine after you've finished your swim, is essential to keep your skin healthy & fit:

• Start by rinsing off the pool water, using a gentle cleanser to remove any remaining chlorine or pool chemicals.
• Pat your skin dry gently, avoiding rubbing, which can irritate the skin.
• Apply a moisturizer to lock in hydration, and consider using an after-swim lotion with added vitamins and antioxidants to nourish your skin.
• If you plan to spend more time in the sun, reapply sunscreen to maintain protection.

We hope these seven swimmers' skincare tips will help you enjoy your time in the water without worrying your brains out for skin and hair. Whether swimming for fitness, relaxation, or competition, taking care of your skin is an important part of your overall wellness routine. Please make sure to keep this in mind.

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