How to Protect your Hair and Skin from Pool Water

With winter now behind us, millions of people are going outdoors to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine. If you plan on swimming, however, you should take some precautions to protect your skin and hair from damage. Most swimming pools contain harsh chemicals like chlorine that can take a toll on your skin and hair. You may notice your hair feeling dry and frizzy, while your skin feels rough. So, what can you do to protect your skin and hair from this damage?

Wear a Swim Cap

A simple way to protect your hair from pool chemicals is to wear a swim caps. Typically made of flexible materials like latex, swim caps are designed to create a waterproof barrier around your hair. Competitive swimmers are actually required to wear them to prevent loose hair from clogging up the pool's filters. Whether you swim for leisure or competition, though, it's still a good idea to wear a swim cap.

Shower After Getting Out of the Pool

Try to get into the habit of taking a shower after getting out of the pool. Chemicals like chlorine will linger in your hair and on your skin long after you get out of the pool. The only way to remove them is to wash them off. Thankfully, many community pools have freshwater showers, which you can use to wash off chlorine from your body.

Increase Intake of Vitamin C

Studies show that vitamin C neutralizes chlorine and the effects it has on your skin and hair. Therefore, increasing your intake of vitamin C can help protect you from chlorine-related damage. Citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C. You can also increase your intake of this essential vitamin by taking a daily supplement.

Wear Waterproof Sunscreen Lotion

Another way to protect your skin from chlorine damage is to apply waterproof sunscreen lotion before getting in the pool. Assuming it's waterproof, it will stick to your skin even when you swim. Waterproof sunscreen lotion creates a thin barrier between your skin and the water, protecting it from harsh pool chemicals.

Moisturize After Getting Out

Finally, make sure you moisturize your skin after getting out of the pool. Chlorine will leave your skin feeling dry and rough. Thankfully, applying a high-quality moisturizing cream or lotion will counter these effects. For your hair, consider using a moisturizing conditioner after getting out of the pool.