A Guide to Skincare for Swimmers: Navigating the Waters to Radiant Skin

When you think of a refreshing swim, the last thing you want is for your skin to pay the price. But let’s face it—the chlorine and chemicals that keep pools clean can be less than kind to our complexions. 

This got us thinking: what should skincare for swimmers look like? 

At MD GLAM, we're all about embracing the water while keeping skin happy and healthy. To do that, you need a routine that delivers the TLC your complexion craves while dodging that all-too-familiar dry and irritated feeling triggered by pool chemicals.

In this comprehensive swimmer's skincare guide, we’re breaking down the ins and outs of swimmers’ skincare—from the effects of chlorine to tips for a routine that truly makes waves.

Let’s dive right in! (pun intended)

The Aquatic Adversary: Chlorine and Skin Health

Chlorine is a chemical used to disinfect and sanitize swimming pool water. It kills bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can harm human health. 

While it comes in different forms (like gas, solid, or liquid), it doesn’t make much of a difference to your complexion. In all its forms, chlorine and skin health are far from compatible. This chemical can trigger dryness, irritation, and even allergies in many people. 

As for foregoing these chemicals? That isn’t an option either. 

Without chlorine, all those microorganisms and bacteria would multiply, posing an even greater health risk to swimmers. Meaning? You’d be susceptible to infection and exposure to algae or organic matter (like sweat and urine). Gross.

Now, this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a swim without compromising your skin's health. The trick? Stay informed and arm yourself with the right habits. Otherwise, you could be rendering your skin defenseless. 

Swimmer’s Skin: Recognizing and Addressing Common Concerns

Anytime you dip in the pool, you leave your skin vulnerable to a host of issues. Before we get into preventing swimmers’ skin damage, let’s touch on what happens if you forego tailored skincare for your lifestyle:

Dryness

Pool chemicals can leave your skin feeling parched and desperate for hydration.

Irritation

The combination of chlorine and other chemicals can irritate your skin, triggering redness and discomfort.

Allergies

Some swimmers are allergic to pool chemicals, developing itchy, inflamed skin post-swim.

Premature Aging

Over time, too much chlorine exposure can break down the collagen in your skin, leading to premature aging.

Acne Flare-Ups

Chlorine can disrupt your skin's natural balance, potentially triggering acne breakouts.

Rather dodge these complexion woes? We can’t blame you. 

The secret: Maintaining healthy swimmers’ skin starts outside the water.

Pre-Dive Preparations: Protecting Swimmer’s Skin

Before taking the plunge, it’s essential to prepare your skin for the environment it's about to face. While the chlorine and chemicals in pools are harsh, the right pre-dive prep can minimize their impact and keep you glowing with every lap.

Here are some ways to prep your complexion before every swim:

Hydrate from the inside out

Start by drinking plenty of water. Proper hydration helps to keep your skin barrier strong and resilient.

Rinse with fresh water before diving in

This might sound counterintuitive, but rinsing before getting into the pool can help reduce the amount of chlorine your skin absorbs.

Apply and reapply sunscreen

Opt for a waterproof sunscreen to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Remember to reapply as directed on the label for optimal protection.

Avoid prolonged exposure

Limit your time in the pool to reduce your skin's exposure to chlorine and other chemicals.

Next: your post-swimming skincare routine.

Post-Swim Pampering: Nurturing Your Skin After the Laps

Emerging with dry, irritated skin? That’s definitely not part of your Sunday Funday.

Here are some tips for protecting swimmers’ skin post-dip:

Shower immediately after swimming

Rinse off as soon as you get out of the pool. This removes any residual chlorine or other chemicals that can harm your skin post-swim.

Avoid hot water

While it might be tempting to take a steamy shower, opt for lukewarm water to prevent further drying out your skin.

Hydrate your skin and hair

In addition to drinking water, apply a moisturizer to your skin and leave-in conditioner to your hair to prevent further dryness. 

Resist the urge to scratch

Since chlorine causes dryness, your skin may itch after exposure. Resist the urge to scratch, which can damage your skin barrier and lead to further irritation.

By incorporating these pre- and post-swim rituals, you're setting the stage for healthy, hydrated skin that can withstand the effects of pool chemicals. 

And speaking of setting the stage, let's see which MD GLAM products fit best into your skincare for swimmers.

MD GLAM: Swim Skincare Solutions

As we’ve learned, swimmers’ skincare is anything but ordinary. You need products that pack an extra punch in combating the sun and harsh chemicals found in pools. The good news? Our line-up is your ultimate ally in maintaining gorgeous skin, even after countless dips in the pool.

First, which SPF is best for protecting swimmers’ skin?

Sunshout Sunscreen SPF 50

This water-resistant formula delivers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, shielding your skin from the sun's harsh rays with every splash. And thanks to its high SPF 50, you’re also fighting premature aging or hyperpigmentation. Plus, nourishing ingredients (like vitamin A and vitamin E) further hydrate and protect you from the drying effects of chlorine and saltwater. 

Pore Beautifying Set 

Now that we've uncovered the tumultuous relationship between skin health and chlorine, getting every trace of it off your skin post-swim is non-negotiable.

Start with our Exfoliating Enzyme Scrub to gently buff away any impurities and dry skin flakes. With skin prepped and polished, you’re ready to go in with the Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser to wash away any lingering residue and feed your skin a dose of anti-aging goodness. 

DMAE Antioxidant Day Moisturizer

Hydration for swimmers’ skin is crucial. Since chlorine triggers dryness, you’ll want to pump some moisture back into your skin post-swim. Our DMAE Antioxidant Day Moisturizer contains botanical extracts like lavender and lemon peel to soothe and nourish your skin. Antioxidants like Vitamins C and E fend off the damaging effects of pool chemicals, while DMAE works magically to tighten and firm the skin. 

Hyaluronic Acid Night C-Complex

Nurturing the moisture barrier in swimmers is crucial to avoid dryness. So, at night, give your skin a little extra boost with Dr. Cat’s holy grail: the Hyaluronic Acid Night C-Complex. This powerful PM moisturizer is a swimmer’s dream, delivering intense hydration with low-molecular hyaluronic acid while Vitamin C brightens and balances your complexion. Glycolic and lactic acids gently exfoliate, helping to remove any chlorine residue. 

Dry, flaky skin? Not in this swimmer’s lane.

MD GLAM: Glowing Skin with Every Stroke

Swimming is an amazing way to stay fit and have fun. But letting your skin pay the price? That's simply not an option. 

From the drying effects of harsh pool chemicals to the potential for irritation and other issues, skincare for swimmers delivers the extra care and defense you need to keep your complexion thriving. 

That’s why we’ve formulated each product with the unique needs of swimmers in mind so your skin stays healthy, hydrated, and radiant. 

Ready to make a splash and let MD GLAM handle the rest? 

Shop our collection of luxurious, medical-grade skincare today.