Summer has finally arrived, and like most of us in sunny South Florida, that means spending long days tanning and swimming in the pool. At DCSI, we know how harmful chlorine and the harsh sun can be on one’s skin. Without the right swimming pool skin care routine, the chlorine and sun can cause some serious damage. With the help of our dermatologists in Wellington and Delray Beach, we share our tips on taking care of your skin before and after a swim.
How to Protect Face from Chlorine in a Pool?
Prepping your skin for a fun day in the sun includes applying an extra layer of moisturizer to your face. This layer will act as a barrier between the chlorine from the pool and your skin. Prepping with barrier cream is the best way to protect your face from chlorine in pools and avoid unwanted redness or itchiness after a swim. sPre-Swim Skin Care Routine
The first step is always to prep your skin with UV protection both before and after a swim. If you are using the same sunscreen from last summer, ensure that the sunscreen has not expired. Most swimming pools in Florida use chlorine to help kill germs and bacteria and to keep the water clean and safe to swim in. Our dermatologists in Delray Beach firmly believe that while everyday UV protection is imperative for your skin before and after a swim, taking the necessary steps to repair damage caused by chlorine is just as important both pre and post-swim. We recommend finding products that contain dimethicone, glycerin, oils, or petrolatum, to use on your skin both before and after a swim.Post-Swimming Skin Care Routine
Your post-swimming skin care routine is imperative to keeping your skin glowing and damage-free all summer long. Our dermatologists recommend rinsing off your skin as soon as you get out of the swimming pool. The longer the chlorine sits on your skin, the more damage is being done to your pores. Use a light to mild hydrating cleanser or a body wash to rinse off the pool’s chemicals and help restore your skin’s pH balance. After rinsing off, the next step to your skin care routine after swimming is to reapply a moisturizer to restore hydration to your skin. If you plan on continuing to enjoy a relaxing day in the sun and swimming by the pool, ensure you apply UV protection and moisturizer. Lastly, if you plan on spending an abundant amount of time this summer swimming in a pool, be sure to take the time to visit a dermatologist for a refreshing medical-grade facial. Help your skin before and after a swim this summer with monthly facials from our team of professional dermatologists at DCSI.Do I Have to Shower After Swimming?
Our dermatologists in Wellington recommend that you shower after swimming in public pools because of the number of contaminants like chemicals or bacteria that are in public swimming pools. Showering after swimming can help to remove any chlorine or other chemicals that may have been used to treat the water, as well as any dirt or other substances that may have accumulated on your skin. Additionally, it can help to reduce the risk of skin irritation or infection. Our Wellington, FL dermatologists recommend that you take a shower every time that you get in a public pool because of how dirty they could get.Does Pool Water Help Acne?
No, There is no evidence to suggest that pool water can help with acne. In fact, swimming in a pool may actually make acne worse for some people. Since chlorine causes skin irritation and dryness, it could lead to an increased risk of developing acne thanks to the buildup of sweat, bacteria, and other substances on the skin, which could clog pores and contribute to acne. So, our experienced dermatologist consultants in South Florida would like to point out that pool water will not help you with acne breakouts, in fact, pool water may even be worse for your skin. However, this is not to say that swimming pools are bound to cause acne since there are ways to prevent acne build-up from swimming in a pool. These include washing your face and body with a gentle cleanser after swimming, using a moisturizer to prevent dryness, and avoiding touching your face with your hands while in the pool.Why Do I Have an Itchy Scalp After Swimming in a Pool?
An itchy scalp after swimming in a pool could be due to a number of factors. One possible cause is exposure to chlorine in the pool water, which can dry out the skin and scalp and cause itching. In some cases, a reaction to the chemicals used to treat the pool water can cause an itchy or irritated scalp. Further, as mentioned above, pool water is known to have many different contaminants like bacteria and mycobacteria that could also lead to itching if your scalp is exposed or sensitive to the kinds of chemicals that swimming pools may have. Our dermatology practice would like to point out that the best way to relieve an itchy scalp is to wash your hair with a gentle shampoo since this cleans the chlorine and other chemicals from your scalp. So, showering after a pool is the best way to prevent an itchy scalp. Also, one of the best remedies for an itchy scalp once you get an itchy scalp is to use aloe vera. To use aloe vera to get rid of an itchy scalp, follow these instructions: Apply fresh aloe vera gel to your scalp and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing out. Aloe vera has natural cooling and soothing properties that can help relieve itching and irritation.Dermatologist-Recommended Summer Skin Care Hacks
Let the professionals at DCSI, one of the best dermatologists in South Florida, help your skin before and after a swim this summer! We can help recommend the best makeup for swimming and ensure your skin looks its absolute best all summer long. Contact us today to make an appointment and learn more about our medical-grade facials and chemical peels!Additional Reading:
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- Common Florida Skin Conditions and Treatments
- How Does Chlorine Affect You? The Effects of Chlorine on Your Hair, Skin, and Nails
- Vitamin C Benefits for Skin, Hair, and Health
- Is It Bad to Self-Diagnose on the Internet?
- Fungal Acne Treatment