With the scorching temperatures and beating sun, it’s only normal to want to spend your day in the pool! However, all that chlorine can do serious damage to your skin and hair. Although it does kill bacteria, it also strips off your natural oils and leaves you with dry hair and flaky, sensitive skin. Since it’s impossible to resist the temptation of the water, we decided to list out a few ways to protect yourself from this chemical.

1. Soak Before You Swim

Your hair can only absorb this much water! Rather than letting the chlorine seep through your strands and wreck them, it’s best to attack with tap water. Just before you jump into the pool, step into the shower and wet your locks from root to tip. This will saturate your mane and prevent too much chlorine from getting absorbed.

2. Leave It In

Since chlorine can make your hair feel like straw, you need a conditioning treatment. After wetting your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner throughout the length of your tresses. If you don’t own such a product, feel free to use a hair oil or a regular conditioner. We recommend using a wide tooth comb to spread the conditioner or oil in, as this will lead to fewer tangles and a more even application. Let it soak in for a few minutes before pulling on a swim cap. Yes, a swim cap is non-negotiable – even if you have short hair.

3.  Double Up On The SPF

Apart from protecting you from UV rays, sunscreens also prevent the loss of moisture from your skin. Opt for a water-resistant formula to create a barrier against the effects of chlorine. Remember to use a generous amount 15 minutes before you step into the pool. If you are planning on spending a large chunk of your day in the water, re-apply every 2 hours. Don’t forget about places like the tips of your ears and the back of your neck!

4. Rinse And Wash

Once you are out, rinse off ASAP! Then, lather up with a gentle soap and face wash. Avoid strong body washes and cleansers as they will only strip your skin further and leave it compromised.

For shampoos, it’s best to use a sulphate-free formula. Those of you with dyed locks should use a shampoo that’s specially formulated for your hair, as chlorine can change up the colour. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner. If you aren’t planning on washing your hair, you should at least rinse it thoroughly with water to get rid off any residue.

5. Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise

Nothing is as drying as chlorine. To replenish your body’s lost moisture, it’s imperative to use heavy-duty formulas. Ceramide-based creams are your best bet here. This ingredient is essentially a lipid that is found naturally in your skin and gets depleted with factors like chlorine. By using such creams, you not only help your skin retain moisture, but also protect it from damage and heal any irritation.

As for your hair, use a moisturising mask weekly to restore it to its natural glory. If masks are too heavy for you, use a serum or oil from the mid-lengths to the ends. These will keep your strands shiny and soft. You can also use a scalp treatment every fortnight to balance the precious skin on your head.

We hope this guide will help you protect yourself, without sacrificing your pool time! If you need product recommendations, here are a few amazing ones that we’re planning to use this summer:

Kiehl's Deep Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Treatment | Source: Kiehl's

Kiehl’s Deep Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Treatment | Source: Kiehl’s

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | Source: CeraVe

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | Source: CeraVe

Moroccanoil Color Continue Shampoo | Source: Moroccanoil

Moroccanoil Color Continue Shampoo | Source: Moroccanoil

Need any further tips? Let us know in the comments below.

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