Swimming is a summertime favorite, but the chlorine and pool water can leave your skin feeling dry and itchy. Here are some tips to help you beat the itch and keep your skin healthy and happy.
What Skin Issues Pool Water and Chlorine Can Cause
It’s no secret that pools and chlorine can cause skin issues. From itchy skin to redness and dryness, chlorine can be tricky to navigate. But with a few easy tips, you can avoid discomfort and protect your skin.
First, make sure to moisturize before swimming. Swimming in chlorinated water can dry out your skin, so using a moisturizer beforehand will help keep your skin hydrated.
Second, use a barrier cream. Barrier cream will create a protective layer between your skin and the pool water, shielding your skin from the chemicals.
And finally, take a break. If your skin is feeling particularly itchy or irritated, take a break from the pool and give your skin a chance to recover.
Swimming in chlorinated water is great for your health, but it’s important to take care of your skin as well.
With these tips, you can enjoy swimming without having to worry about how it’s affecting your skin.
How to Avoid Discomfort Before You Enter the Pool
Now, before you even get in the pool, it’s important to take a few precautionary measures to avoid discomfort. One of the best ways to do this is by using a pool water and chlorine filter. This will help to remove any traces of chlorine and other chemicals from the water, which can help to prevent irritation.
If you’re not using a pool water and chlorine filter, make sure you apply a layer of sunscreen to your skin before entering the pool. This will create a barrier between your skin and the harsh chemicals in the water. Additionally, try to avoid swimming in pools that are heavily chlorinated—the higher the chlorine levels, the more severe the irritation will be.
Protecting Yourself After Swimming in the Pool
You’ve just spent the last hour swimming in the pool and now you’re itchy. Chances are, your skin is reacting to the chlorine in the water. This isn’t anything to worry about—chlorine is a common skin irritant and can cause itchy dry skin.
There are a few things you can do to prevent this from happening, though. The most important is to moisturize your skin after swimming. Apply a heavy moisturizer and wear it overnight. This will help seal in the moisture and soothe your skin.
You can also take a shower after swimming to rinse off any chlorine. Make sure to use a gentle soap and moisturize your skin afterward.
Avoid using harsh scrubs or soaps, as these can further irritate your skin. If you’re really struggling with itchiness, apply a cold compress to the area for relief.
Must Haves for Protecting Your Skin
One of the most important things to remember is to always bring some essential items with you when swimming in a public pool. Waterproof sunscreen, goggles, and a swim cap are all great additions that can help protect your skin from any further irritation.
The swim cap may feel uncomfortable, but it will keep your hair from absorbing the chlorine, therefore preventing any more itching or redness on your scalp.
As for sunscreen, it’s important to ensure you’re using a waterproof formula that won’t be rinsed away by the pool water. Sunscreen will not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays—it also provides an additional layer of protection against exposure to chlorine and other harsh chemicals from the pool.
Don’t forget to reapply after every swim! Goggles will also come in handy as they provide a barrier against any chlorine that may come into contact with your eyes.
Tips for Moisturizing After Swimming
Once you’ve got out of the pool, it’s time to tackle the itch. This is where moisturizers come in; they bind moisture to your skin to prevent it from drying out. As an added bonus, most moisturizers also contain antioxidants and vitamins that help fight the harmful effects of chlorine.
It’s best to avoid lotions that are heavily scented because they may contain irritating chemicals that can further exacerbate any irritation you may be feeling. Instead, look for a moisturizer labeled “chlorine-protective” or “hypoallergenic” to ensure it will be suitable for your skin type.
Furthermore, opt for one that contains natural oils like coconut oil or jojoba oil, as these have properties that will help soothe your skin and lock in even more moisture to keep your skin hydrated for longer.
Plus, these oils are generally easier on sensitive skin types than harsher products with synthetic fragrances.
DIY Remedies to Combat Chlorine and Pool Water Itch
If you want to try some DIY remedies for your pool water and chlorine itch, you can try a few different things.
For a quick fix, one of the best things to do is to rinse off after swimming with non-chlorinated water and then apply some natural moisturizer or oil to your skin. Almond oil, coconut oil, and shea butter are all great options.
Another thing you can do is mix a teaspoon of baking soda and two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a cup of warm water. Soak a cloth in this solution, and then use it as a compress on the thatchy areas. You can do this up to four times a day until the itching has subsided.
Finally, an oatmeal bath can also help reduce itching—just mix half a cup of oatmeal in your bathwater, soak for fifteen minutes or so, and then rinse off. The oatmeal helps add moisture back into your skin while also providing relief from the symptoms.
Conclusion
Chlorine and pool water can be a real nuisance when it comes to your skin. But with a few simple tips, you can avoid the itch and keep your skin looking and feeling great.
One of the simplest things you can do is to make sure you moisturize your skin before you get in the pool. This will help to protect your skin against the drying effects of chlorine and water.
Another great tip is to take a shower after you swim. This will help to wash away any chlorine or pool water that may have accumulated on your skin.
And finally, make sure to drink plenty of water. This will help to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
