WHETHER you're hopping in the pool to exercise or simply cool down in the summer heat, there are some post-swim hacks worth nothing. One competitive swimmer revealed the five-step routine she uses to protect her skin and hair from chlorine. Commenting on a Reddit post , user Queen_Starsha explained that she has certain steps she follows every time she gets out of the pool.
For her first hack, she recommended avoiding "really hot water" in your post-swim shower or bath. The experts at the Children's Skin Center explained that chlorine tends to dry out your skin. "Because chlorine is a natural irritant, it opens up pores and strips the skin of its natural oils that keep it moisturized and healthy," they said.
"Too much exposure to chlorine dries out the skin and causes irritation and itchiness." Similarly, hot water can also dehydrate your skin explained Dr. Emily McKenzie in a discussion with the Health University of Utah .
This means that taking a hot shower directly after a swim can dry out your skin even more. Instead, the swimmer suggested rinsing yourself with cold water "if you don’t have time for at least a cursory full shower." After showering, she recommended moisturizing your face and neck, and the rest of your body if you have time.
She pointed out that sunscreen can work as a moisturizer if you're stuck. The Redditor also broke down the post-swim haircare routine she swears by. "At some point before bed, wash, shampoo, condition, and then put a leave-in condition.