A true swimming enthusiast is usually more concerned about the workout and freedom that comes from spending time in the water, and less time worrying about the effect that swimming has on skin and hair. Unfortunately, chlorine can wreak havoc on your body if you don't properly care for your skin and hair. Dryness and discoloration can make you reduce your time in the water; instead, watch for signs that swimming is affecting you and then find solutions to help combat the problem.
Dry Hair
The chlorine found in most swimming pools can have a drying effect on your hair. If you swim outside, you also run the risk of the sun drying out your hair. The beating that your hair takes while you swim can result in dry, less than lustrous locks and susceptibility to breakage. Wearing a bathing cap can help minimize the damage and keep your hair chlorine free. A conditioning treatment after each session in the water helps too.
Dry Skin
Another effect that chlorine can have on your body is dry skin. HeatlhGuidance.org warns that chlorine can sometimes leave a residue on your skin after swimming, clinging to your skin and drying it out even more. It's important to take a shower after you swim, and use products that are rich in vitamin E to help replenish some of the moisture lost through your skin. Drinking water, something you may not think of while swimming, can help replenish lost moisture as well.
Discolored Hair
The copper that is common in most chlorine solutions can tint light hair a green color if you swim often enough. Because of this, some swimmers reduce their time in the water. Instead, invest in a good swimmer's shampoo, which can purchased through a swimmer's specialty shop, suggests DermaDoctor.com. The swimmer's shampoo strips the hair of chlorine so you aren't left with the green tint to your locks.
Split Ends
While chlorine dries out your hair, other facets of swimming can leave you with frayed, split ends. The bathing cap can pull and tug at the hair shaft as you put it on and remove it. Also, if you swim with your hair in a ponytail and remove the hair tie when wet, you can break the delicate hair strands. Columbia University's advice columnist Alice suggests always using a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair after swimming. A conditioning treatment can make the hair easier to comb.
Sunburn
If you typically swim outside, your skin is at risk for sunburn. You may think you're safe in the water, but UV rays penetrate water easily, leaving you feeling fried, sore and at risk for skin cancer, says the Skin Cancer Foundation. Make sure you apply a waterproof variety of sunscreen 30 minutes before you get in the water, and reapply often if you spend the majority of time in the water.
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