Skin Care for Swimmers

You may swim for recreation in the summer months or you may hit the pool to train rigorously for competitions. While spending a lot of time in the pool may be a great workout, it may also be a recipe for skin trauma. If you take care of it, your skin does not have to suffer from swimming.

 

Shower

 

Shower immediately before and after a swim. It will help reduce the amount of bacteria circulating in the pool and will potentially help reduce the amount of chlorine that is absorbed into both your skin and hair. Also, when your skin is wet (after showering or swimming), avoid rubbing the towel over your body with too much vigor. The friction may remove your skin's moisture barrier. Rubbing may also irritate your skin cells. Instead of rubbing, try gently patting yourself down with your towel

Moisturize

When your skin is constantly in the bright sun and being immersed in chlorinated or salty water, you need to find good-quality bath products that will moisturize it well. Use a chlorine-out product designed for swimmers. A good product will be able to remove chlorine residue and moisturize your skin simultaneously. Try to find a waterproof, sweat-proof moisturizing product that contains vitamins E and A plus natural extracts.

 

Protect 

 

Do not spend too much time in or around the pool without sufficient protection. If you plan to sit next to the pool, wear sunglasses, a hat or visor, and maybe even a sarong. Always use sunscreen and apply it as frequently as directed. Make sure the sunscreen has had time to absorb into your skin before you jump into the water. (Many sunscreen products recommend waiting 10 to 30 minutes. Read the label.) 

 

Drink Water

 

 It is easy to become dehydrated when you are spending active time in the sun. Drinking lots of water will help your body restore its natural moisture. Staying hydrated will also help your body flush out contaminants brought in by pool chemicals. Experts on Swimnetwork.com recommend that a competitive swimmer should drink 17 to 20 ounces of water before swim practice, and then continue to drink small amounts (5 to 8 ounces) every 10 to 15 minutes during practice to stay sufficiently hydrated. Current recommendations for the average person are eight glasses of water each day. 

 

Warning 

 

Not all expensive skin care products are necessarily high-quality products, but many inexpensive skin care products are definitely low-quality products. Avoid products that contain unnecessary preservatives and fragrances, as they may contribute to skin damage. The TRISWIM brand is a good example of a well-balanced and healthy product line.