The joy of being in the pool is an unparalleled pleasure, but to fully enjoy this aquatic haven, it’s crucial to think beyond crystal-clear water. Sunbathing while gliding through refreshing water is a rejuvenating experience, but without proper protection, both the sun’s rays and pool chemicals can harm the skin.

In this article, we’ll delve into valuable tips on how to care for your skin by the pool, ensuring that your sun-soaked days are not only memorable but also safe and healthy. Let’s dive into the secrets of radiant and protected skin for all your poolside moments.

Tips for Taking Care of Your Skin Before and After Swimming

Spending a lazy summer day by a beautiful pool can be the best way to enjoy the season. With the warm weather approaching, you’ve likely packed your beach bag with a new swimsuit and sunscreen. But before you dive in, remember to prepare your skin for potential sun and pool pH-related aggressions.

Even with all the technology used in developing pool chemicals, the chemistry can still affect your skin if you don’t take proper precautions. Therefore, learn how dermatologists recommend caring for your skin before and after swimming.

1. Prepare Your Skin with a Barrier Cream

Chlorine is added to pools to disinfect and prevent the growth and spread of disease-causing pathogens. Due to its caustic nature, chlorine can cause some level of irritant contact dermatitis—red, dry, and itchy skin.

To avoid that uncomfortable itching and redness, it’s ideal to prepare your skin with a barrier cream before entering the pool. Look for products with glycerin, oils, or petrolatum listed in the composition.

1. Shower and Hydrate Immediately After Swimming

You already know you need to rinse your body before getting into the pool to prevent water contact with sweat. But if you wait until you get home to shower after swimming, you’re doing a disservice to your skin.

Rinse immediately, not allowing chlorinated water to linger on the skin for too long. Additionally, use a moisturizer or liquid soap to restore the skin’s pH balance after exposure to pool chemicals.

1. Follow Up with Moisturizer

If your skin still feels dry/scaly after leaving the pool, switch to a thicker moisturizer or ointment. Remember that lotions aren’t as hydrating as creams, and creams aren’t as hydrating as ointments.

1. Sunscreen Application

Sunscreen is your number one companion when considering sunbathing by the pool. Use a sunscreen with a higher SPF, especially if your sun time is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Why Do I Feel Itchy Scalp After Swimming in the Pool?

Itchy scalp after a dip in the pool can be attributed to various causes, and understanding these factors is crucial for relieving discomfort. Here are some common reasons:

• Chlorine Residue: Chlorine is widely used to keep pool water free of bacteria and germs. However, excessive chlorine buildup can strip the scalp of its natural oils, resulting in dryness and itching.
• Unnecessary Chemicals: Some chemicals used to treat pool water may not be tolerated by everyone. Substances like algaecides and clarifiers can trigger allergic reactions, manifesting as itching on the scalp.
• pH Imbalance: If the pool water’s pH is unbalanced, it can affect scalp health. Inadequate pH levels can make the water more acidic, causing skin irritation.
• Presence of Bacteria and Fungi: Public pools or poorly maintained pools can harbor bacteria and fungi. Contact with these microorganisms can lead to scalp irritation, itching, and even infections.
• Hard Water: In some regions, water used to fill the pool can be “hard,” containing high levels of minerals. These minerals can contribute to skin irritation and itching.

To alleviate post-swimming scalp itching, it’s crucial to adopt preventive measures. Rinsing hair immediately after leaving the pool, using neutral shampoos, and regularly moisturizing the scalp are recommended practices to maintain hair health and enjoy pleasant aquatic leisure moments.

Prioritizing Your Skin Health in the Pool

Maintaining skin health while enjoying the pool is an essential practice to ensure that moments of leisure do not result in discomfort. By understanding the challenges associated with pool water contact, it is possible to take proactive measures to protect the skin.

Choosing appropriate skincare products, rinsing the body after a swim, and paying attention to the chemical balance of the water are vital steps. Moreover, do not underestimate the power of hydration; keeping the skin well moisturized not only promotes a natural barrier against irritations but also contributes to a healthy complexion.

By adopting these simple practices, you not only maximize fun around the pool but also preserve the health and vitality of your skin. So, the next time you dive into the pool, do so with the knowledge that you are taking steps to care for your skin the way it deserves. Enjoy every moment in the pool, knowing that you are protecting your most precious asset: your skin.