Swimming is often considered therapeutic by many, if not all. It gives us a sense of calm amidst the usual hullabaloo we are often plagued with.
However, when we are swimming, we almost forget that the chlorine present in the swimming pool water could interact with our skin and cause some damage. To protect our skin from this chlorine and to enjoy a good swim, here are some tips:
Shower before you hit the swimming pool
Taking a shower is of utmost importance before we enter the swimming pool. Given an option, use cold water to shower instead of hot. Why is taking a shower necessary before the swim? The answer is quite simple.
Besides our skin, chlorine can interact with our hair and cause damage. Our hair is like a sponge. It absorbs all the water if it is dry. So if we enter the swimming pool without getting our hair wet, it will absorb all the chlorine water. Constant exposure to chlorine can make the hair rough and unhealthy.
Take a shower after the swim
Though it may seem simple, showering with soap and shampoo after getting out of the swimming pool can do a world of wonder. It will help in getting rid of most of the chlorine.
Showering is the best, easiest, most convenient, and most effective way, just like we do before the swim; shower with cold water after the swim as well. If we use hot water, there is a chance that our skin can shrink. Therefore, use only cold water.
If possible, use citrus-flavoured body wash or soap to avoid damage due to chlorine. The Vitamin C-infused soap can remove chlorine and chloramine up to 90%. There are special shower caps with Vitamin C too.
Use Vitamin C crystals
We can mix a tiny bit of Vitamin C crystals with our body wash and shampoo to create our post-swimming shampoo and body wash.
Protect your skin with a cream
Chlorine is inevitable in the swimming pool. It is used to disinfect and prevent the rise and spread of bacterial, viral and protozoan diseases.
Due to its acidic nature, chlorine is a cause of irritant contact dermatitis, namely red, dry, itchy skin.
To avoid that uncomfortable itch and redness, it is recommended to use a pre swim lotion containing glycerine, oil, petrolatum, or dimethicone before getting in the pool.
However, it is essential to note that not all swimming pools allow creams or pre swim lotions to be worn by swimmers, as they may interfere with the disinfecting chemicals.
Clean your face with a face wash
Fortunately, swimming seldom leads to breakouts on the face. However, it may dry the skin and irritate the face for the rest of your body.
Therefore, hydration before and after swimming is critical. Hydration can be done by rinsing the face with a good face wash after the pool session.
So, the next time you plan to get into the swimming pool to have a therapeutic experience, remember to check all these boxes.
Happy Swimming!
