Swimming is one of the best forms of physical exercise, and popular physical activity during summer. But exposing skin to chlorine treated water and getting irritant skin is common.
Most swimming pools have chlorine treated water to keep bacteria and germs at bay. But this chlorine strips away protective natural oil when it comes in contact with skin and can cause:
⦁ Dry skin
⦁ Premature aging and damage due to protein loss
⦁ Itching and rash
⦁ Acne
⦁ Sun damage
So taking right precaution can help you prevent such skin problems
⦁ Sunscreen : waterproof sunscreen is best choice as it forms a protective barrier on top of your skin and prevents sun damage, and premature aging in regular swimmer ,block chlorine and retain moisturizer in your skin. Apply sunscreen 15 mins before you intend to swim. This will give your skin plenty of time to absorb the sunblock, forming a strong barrier. Chlorine by itself will not darken your skin, but with sun exposure it can give you a bad tan. This is why you must use sunscreen .
⦁ Shower : Before a dip if you take shower it will hydrate skin cells, reinforcing your sun block barrier
⦁ Hydrate : Keep sipping some water while you swim as your skin will retain moisturizer and not absorb excess amount of chlorine.
⦁ Warm water shower : Always take warm water shower as this will help open up your pores to allow a through cleaning. Use anti chlorine soap to cleanse your body,wash your hair thoroughly. Finish the shower with cool water to tighten your pores. this will prevent moisturizer loss.
⦁ Moisturizer : To keep your skin healthy it is important for swimmer to use moisturizer.
⦁ Antioxidants : Add antioxidants in diet this will help you relive the stress of oxidative damage .
⦁ After a dip ,don’t air dry as it leads to dryness of the skin
⦁ Exfoliate your face and body at least twice or thrice a week. Exfoliating allows you to get rid of dead skin and any product build up.
Now you have a completely skincare routine for swimmer, this routine will help to maintain and improve the health of your skin…
