Does your skin get dry, flaky, and itchy after swimming? Use these tips to keep you skin soft and smooth.
Jumping into water refreshes you instantly and cools you down on a hot day. While your skin might feel smooth while swimming, it’s just because of the layer of water. Salt water from the sea makes your skin dry as it evaporates faster and makes your body lose water to the surroundings. Water from the pool is no better because chlorine dries out your skin as well.
Nobody wants to stop swimming, especially because it’s a great workout. Here are ways to keep your skin feeling soft and smooth after swimming.
(Also read: How Swimming Can Make You A Faster Runner)
Rinse before entering the water
Like skincare, your skin absorbs the water and its chemicals. Salt water and chlorine causes your skin to dry out once you exit the water. To prevent dryness, rinse your hair and body in tap water before swimming, so the layer of tap water will act as a protective barrier.
(Also read: Surprising Causes of Dry Skin)
Don’t soak
As appealing as laying in the jacuzzi sounds, be sure not to soak yourself for too long. Once your fingers and toes start to get wrinkly (something that happens to give you a better grip in water), it’s a good indication that it’s time to leave.
(Also read: Why Swimming Is Good For Older People)
Protect yourself from the sun
Don’t forget about sun protection even when you’re underwater. In fact, it’s even more important to be sun-protected in water because UV rays pass through water easily. Sunscreen sticks easy to use for reapplication, and do not get washed off easily in water. Remember to use an ocean-safe sunscreen when swimming in the sea, or opt for physical protection in clothes, accessories, and location.
(Also read: 8 Sun Protection Products You Absolutely Need For Singapore’s Weather)
Wash up immediately
After submerging your body in water for a long period of time, the last thing you want is for your skin to continue absorbing the chemicals after your swim. Try to shower as soon as possible, and remember to scrub well. This will not only exfoliate your body, but also make sure that the chemicals are washed off properly.
(Also read: Here’s Why You Should Start Taking Cold Showers)
Use an oil-free toner
To restore your skin’s natural pH level, use a toner that will regulate your skin’s oil production. This helps to ensure you do not over- or under-produce sebum, to keep your skin feeling fresh. Toning also helps to balance your skin and prepare it for better moisturiser absorption.
(Also read: 16 Best Toners For Oily And Acne-Prone Skin)
Use a moisturising oil
Moisturising is a no brainer after swimming, but instead of using a thick cream, you might want to step it up a notch with an oil. Start with a small amount so that it spreads and gets absorbed easily. You can then apply a little more to the drier areas like your elbows and ankles.
(Also read: 7 Best Body Moisturisers That Will Rescue Your Dry Skin)
Follow up frequently
Products and treatments have to be applied regularly for you to see effects. So remember to incorporate the above steps into your routine, and you’ll be on your way to maintaining soft, smooth skin.
(Also read: 6 Moisturising Body Care Products For Smooth And Supple Skin)
