Swimming is an excellent exercise for the mind and body. It’s also one of the most popular activities during the summer months. But, it’s not always the best for your skin and hair! Swimming in a chlorine-treated pool exposes your body to many chemicals and irritants. For this reason, you should know how to take care of your skin.
Below are skincare tips to enhance your swimming experience.
1. A sunscreen goes a long way!
A sunscreen forms a protective layer on your skin, hindering excessive drying and tanning due to chlorine. It also prevents sun damage and premature aging. Therefore, investing in a pre-swimming lotion is an excellent idea for such creams are formulated to obstruct chlorine while preserving your skin’s moisture. Apply the products every 15 minutes before getting into the pool; this gives your skin ample time to absorb the sunblock and form a thick barrier.
1. Don’t forget a quick shower
A quick shower before going into the pool is a must, especially when swimming in a public pool. While taking a shower before taking a dip might sound unnecessary, it prevents the pond water from becoming too dirty. A shower is also crucial in hydrating your skin cells; hence hindering them from absorbing the pool water. This way, your sunblock barrier is strengthened.
3. Stay hydrated
By drinking enough water, your skin stays hydrated. Therefore, stay hydrated throughout the day and keep on sipping more water as you swim. If you don’t drink enough water, your skin will end up absorbing the pool water due to lack of moisture. Remember your skin is like a sponge, as long as it’s moisturized, it can’t absorb extra amounts of chlorine.
Post swimming tips
1. Take a warm bath
Take a warm shower immediately after getting out of the swimming pool. By so doing, you open up your skin pores to allow for thorough cleaning. Also, use anti-chlorine soap to cleanse your skin and body and remember to wash the hair thoroughly. Finish off by rinsing your entire body with cold water; this tightens your pores and locks in moisture.
2. Apply some talc
Some little talc goes along way. By smearing talc to some parts of your body, you allow your body to dry off faster. Talc also helps in the absorption of traces of residual chlorine that might be present on your skin. But, ensure that you don’t use talc on your body parts that don’t require moisturizing.
3. Moisturize
Moisturizing is an essential part of your skincare routine. Invest in a quality moisturizer and use it often; this ensures that your skin stays hydrated.
4. Care for the swimwear
Keeping your swimwear clean is a sure way of keeping your skin healthy. Besides, chlorine can damage the swimsuit by fading its color. Add a tablespoonful of vinegar to the washing water, to neutralize the smell of chlorine and maintain the fabric color. For a pleasant swimming experience, acquire extra pairs of stylish tankinis and save yourself the stress.
5. Take some herbal tea
Herbal teas are vital in relieving stress due to oxidative damage to the skin. They also furnish your skin with antioxidants which are necessary for neutralizing free radicals. Some of the best herbal teas are; Moringa, Chamomile, Ginger.
Take home
For all swimmers, proper skincare begins way before you get into the pool and continues even after you step out of the water. So, have your bottle of water, sunscreen, moisturizer, and talc ready for this ensures a better swimming experience. Again, remember to take care of your swimsuit for this ensures a healthier skin.
Guest post by Heman Thuranira
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