Protecting Your Skin at the Pool This Summer

Spending a lazy summer day at the pool is one of the best ways to enjoy the season. However, the chlorine-treated water in pools can have harsh effects on our skin if we don't take proper care. Dryness, itching, and premature aging are just a few of the issues that can arise.

But fear not! In this ultimate guide to summer skincare, we will provide you with essential tips to protect your skin while you enjoy the pool.

Understanding the Impact of Swimming on Your Skin

Most swimming pools use chlorine to kill bacteria and keep the water clean. While effective, chlorine can strip away the natural oils that protect our skin, leading to various problems such as dryness, itching, and even acne. However, swimming itself can have positive effects on our skin, as it helps detoxify the body through exercise and can kill acne-causing bacteria with the right amount of chlorine exposure.

Now that we understand the potential harm and benefits of swimming for our skin, let's dive into the essential pre and post skincare tips for swimmers.

Preparing Your Skin Before a Swim

1. Shield Your Skin with SPF & Skin Protection

Before heading to the pool, it's crucial to protect your skin from the harmful effects of chlorine and sun exposure. Apply a waterproof sunscreen with a high SPF to form a protective barrier on your skin. This will not only prevent excessive drying caused by chlorine but also protect your skin from sun damage and premature aging. Consider investing in a pre-swimming lotion specially formulated to block chlorine and retain moisture in your skin.

If you want to keep your skin flawless as you swim, incorporate Oxygenetix Oxygenating Foundation and Concealer into your pre-pool routine. They act as a shield against harmful chlorine while providing skincare benefits.

2. Take a Quick Shower

Taking a quick shower before entering the pool might seem like an inconvenience, but it's essential for maintaining healthy skin. This pre-swim shower helps to remove any dirt or impurities on your skin, preventing them from mixing with the pool water. Moreover, it hydrates your skin cells, ensuring they don't absorb excessive pool water and reinforcing the barrier created by your sunscreen.

3. Hydrate from Within

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall skin health, especially when swimming. Keep sipping on water while you swim to prevent dehydration and maintain your skin's natural moisture balance. It's easy to forget to drink water while enjoying pool activities, so make it a habit to take regular water breaks and keep a water bottle handy.

Caring for Your Skin After a Swim

1. Rinse Off Immediately

After your swim, it's important to rinse off the chlorine and any other chemicals from your skin. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser to wash away the residue and restore your skin's pH balance. This step is crucial for preventing dryness, itching, and irritation caused by prolonged exposure to chlorine.

2. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize!

Post-swim hydration is key to replenishing your skin's moisture levels. Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and apply it generously to your entire body, focusing on areas that are prone to dryness. Look for products that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to lock in moisture and soothe your skin.

Oxygenetix Hydro-Matrix with PCA and hyaluronic acid is the perfect post-swim moisturizer. All Oxygenetix products have an aloe barbadensis base keeping your 

3. Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage

Even if you've already applied sunscreen before swimming, it's essential to re-apply it after your swim. The combination of chlorine and sun exposure can be harsh on your skin, leading to sunburn and further damage. Choose a water-resistant sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your body.

4. Don't Forget About Your Lips

Our lips are often neglected when it comes to skincare, but they need protection too. Apply a lip balm with SPF to shield your lips from the drying effects of chlorine and the sun. Look for products that contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil to keep your lips soft and supple.

5. Repair and Nourish Your Skin Overnight

After a long day of swimming, your skin deserves some extra care and attention. Before bed, apply a generous amount of a powerful hydrator like Oxygenating Hydro-Matrix, especially on areas that were exposed to the sun. This keep your skin in optimal repair overnight.

Additional Tips for Pool Skincare

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face from the sun's harmful rays.

• Consider using water-resistant makeup products if you prefer to wear makeup at the pool. Look for water-proof foundation and concealer that provide coverage while also protecting your skin from chlorine and UV rays like Oxygenetix Foundations and Concealers.

• Opt for lightweight, water-resistant formulas that won't feel heavy or cakey on your skin.

• Remember to thoroughly cleanse your skin after swimming to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

With these essential tips and recommendations, you can confidently enjoy your time at the pool without worrying about the harmful effects of chlorine on your skin. Remember, healthy skin is happy skin, and protecting it should always be a priority.