Another reason to have a pool party and swim sessions in summer is the sun! Swimming is not only a great exercise for the whole body but also helps to refresh the mind. Swimming in public pools can cause skin and hair problems. Some pools don’t even test the pH of the water once a day. It is a task that must be done every two hours to prevent any damage to the skin or hair. Protect your hair and skin from damage, such as dull or damaged skin.
Health Shots spoke with Dr. Nivedita Dadu, a Renowned Dermatologist, to share some tips on protecting your hair and skin from the harmful effects of swimming pool water.
Although chlorine may kill germs and infection-causing bacteria, it does not damage the skin’s protective layer of oil (sebum). This is what our bodies produce to keep the scalp and skin moist. Itchy skin can be caused by chlorine. Remember to satisfy your body’s thirst for moisture due to the drying effects of chlorinated waters. “Chlorine can sometimes cause skin conditions like eczema,” Dr. Dadu, the founder of Dr. Nivedita Dadu’s Dermatology Clinic.
These are the steps you can take to protect your hair and skin from the chlorine water in swimming pools.
Use a body lotion that is swim-proof
Apply a body lotion before you go swimming. Although many people don’t like applying a lotion to their skin before going into the pool, it can help prevent chlorine absorption.
Massage with some oil
Before going to the pool, apply some oil such as olive oil, coconut oil, or baby oil. This will act as a barrier between the chlorine and your skin.
Before you go swimming, shower.
Take a shower before you go swimming. The skin will absorb the chlorine quickly if it isn’t dry. This water can reach deeper layers, causing more damage. A quick shower can prevent your skin from absorbing too much-chlorinated water. To prevent chlorinated water from drying on your skin, take a quick shower after swimming.
Vitamin C is a friend.
Dr. Dadu recommends adding Vitamin C to your routine. Vitamin C, an antioxidant, protects skin from UV damage. Topical Vitamin C can reduce sunburns by blocking tyrosinase, a skin melanin-producing enzyme.
Hydration is key
Dry and rough skin can be a sign of dehydration. Hydrated skin is soft and flexible on the other side. Drink water to keep your skin hydrated during swimming. It also purifies the skin and replenishes lost moisture.
Always use sunscreen
Sunscreen will protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays while you swim. It will also act as a protective layer that keeps the pool water from contacting your skin. Dr. Dadu recommends applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen at the very least 15-20 minutes before entering the pool.
Use a stiff towel to prevent friction.
Do not rub your skin with a towel after a shower. Friction can cause the skin to lose its moisture barrier. Also, rubbing could irritate.
Lip balms are a good choice.
Chlorinated water can cause cracked lips. Use lip balm to protect your lips from drying out and bleeding.
Regularly exfoliate
Dr. Dadu recommends exfoliating your skin once a week to get rid of pigmented dead skin cells. This can help reduce dark, dull-looking skin. If you’re a regular swimmer, chemical exfoliators that contain hydroxy acids can be a good choice. They work by dissolving dead cells and trapping the chemicals. This can cause more skin problems. Therefore, choose an outdoor pool.