Safe splash: Don’t let chlorine wreak havoc on your skin, hair

Summer calls for a dip in the pool, but for those hesitant thinking of chlorine damage, experts are here to help

CChlorine (in pools) often makes the skin flaky and itchy. It may even aggravate skin problems like eczema. DR NIVEDITA DADU, Dermatologist

ome summer and the first thing that comes to mind is a rejuvenating swim session. Not only is swimming is a great full-body exercise, spending time in the midst of calm, still water also refreshes the mind. However, swimming in public pools can take a toll on hair and skin. In some pools, the pH level of water isn’t checked even once during the day, whereas it needs to be done every two hours.

“Chlorine may kill infectioncausing bacteria and germs, but it damages the upper layer of oil (sebum) that our body produces to prevent the scalp and skin from drying out. Chlorine often makes the skin flaky and itchy, and if you have sensitive skin, it will cause rashes. Always remember to quench the thirst of the body for moisturisation caused due to drying effects of chlorinated water. The chlorine may even aggravate skin problems like eczema,” shares Dr Nivedita Dadu, a dermatologist, who lists some steps to protect your skin and hair from chlorine water.

Apply a swim proof body lotion: Before going to swim, apply a swim body lotion. This will help create a protective barrier around the skin to neutralise chlorine absorption. Massage in some oil: Apply olive oil, coconut oil or baby oil before going into the pool. This will act as a barrier between the chlorine water and the skin.

Shower before the swim: If the skin is dry, it will quickly absorb the chlorinated water. This water will reach deeper layers and cause more damage. A quick shower will prevent the skin from absorbing a lot of chlorinated water. Take a quick shower after swimming as well, to prevent the chlorinated water from drying out the skin. Befriend vitamin C: Dr Dadu suggests adding vitamin C to your regimen, as it is an antioxidant that protects the skin against UV damage. Topical vitamin C can help to reduce sun tan by inhibiting tyrosinase, a melanin-producing enzyme in the skin.

Hydrate well: Dehydrated skin is likely to feel dry and rough. Hydrated skin, on the other hand, stays supple. Sip water to ensure that your skin is necessarily hydrated while swimming. This also helps purify the skin, replenish lost moisture and flush out chlorine or other toxins.

Always apply sunscreen :Dr Dadu says, “Sunscreen will not only protect the skin from the UVA and UVB rays while you swim, but it will also form a protective layer and prevent the water from the pool from coming in direct contact with the skin. Apply a broadspectrum sunscreen at least 15-20 minutes before stepping into the pool for maximum protection.” Prevent friction using a harsh towel: After the shower, do not rub the skin with a towel, as friction may remove the moisture barrier. Rubbing may also irritate the skin. Use a lip balm: Spending long hours in chlorine-treated water can contribute to cracked lips. Use a lip balm to prevent them from dryness and subsequent bleeding. Exfoliate regularly: Dr Dadu says exfoliating the skin once in a fortnight can help remove pigmented dead skin cells. This can reduce the appearance of dark and dull-looking skin. Chemical exfoliators containing hydroxy acids are a good option, if you are a regular swimmer.

One must avoid indoor pools, as they are not very well ventilated and trap the gases from the chemicals, causing more severe skin problems.