How to take care of your skin before and after swimming in summer: 5 tips

What could be more pleasant than spending a hot summer day by the water? But at the same time, your skin is exposed to several aggressive factors: high temperature and active ultraviolet radiation, as well as chlorine or salt from the water.

Recovering from such a vacation is a responsible task. The skin needs careful treatment to avoid irritation, peeling, and itching. OBOZ.UA asked dermatologists for advice on how to properly care for your body after swimming.

Prepare your skin for relaxation

Chlorine in the pool disinfects the water and prevents the spread of bacterial, viral and fungal diseases. But it also irritates the skin and can even cause dermatitis. To avoid itching and redness, prepare your skin with a protective cream. Look for products that contain glycerin, oils, or petroleum jelly. It's even better if it contains dimethicone, which forms a fairly dense layer between the chlorine and your skin. Apply the product before entering the water.

Take a shower after swimming

Many swimming pools have a rule requiring each guest to wash their body in the shower before swimming. But in fact, the procedure should be repeated afterward. Don't leave chlorine and salt on your skin until you get home. And choose warm or cool shower water to avoid additional dryness. When you get home, you can also apply a moisturizer to your body to start restoring the skin's acidity and moisture balance.

Dry yourself with a towel

After swimming, you may be tempted to just lie down on a towel and let the sun dry you off. It feels good and keeps you feeling cool. But this can lead to even more dry skin. So, when you get out of the water, rinse off in the shower and use a towel right away. Only then can you sunbathe. Of course, don't forget to wear SPF.

Take care of moisturizing

If your skin feels dry after a day by the water, try applying a moisturizer or ointment with a thicker formula. The strength of the lotion may not be enough. Use the product before bed and apply it from the neck down.

Don't forget about your face

Fortunately, swimming usually does not lead to facial rashes. However, the face can be exposed to chlorinated or salty water. Therefore, moisturizing before and after swimming is very important. Use your face cream immediately after swimming and before going to bed to help restore your skin.

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