There’s nothing more inviting than a sparkling pool on a hot summer’s day, but many people soon find themselves suffering from skin irritations and acne breakouts.
Chlorine is used in pool water because it kills bacteria and germs, oxidizes organic debris from perspiration and body oils, and fights algae. It is a harsh chemical that strips your outer skin layer from its natural protective oils while opening up your pores. This damages the microbiome on our skin and this is what leaves us with that dry, irritated sensation when you get out of the water.
Skin can also be dry but oily, which is a compensatory action by the pores to try to correct the dry skin. The pores produce too much oil, but when wiped or cleaned away, the skin is dry. Without the proper nutritional oils or electrolytes, the skin can remain ‘oily but dry’. By having properly hydrated skin, the pores will produce much less oil.
If you are prone to skin irritation from chlorine, here are some ways you can help support your skin this summer:
• Shower immediately after your swim using a natural, chemical free soap.
• Stay well hydrated and drink plenty of water before you swim. A quality electrolyte can also be a great addition to help hydrate all the cells of the body including the skin. In our hot Australian summer, the more we sweat, the less hydrated we are and the more electrolytes we require.
• Improve skin integrity by supporting collagen production through nutrients like Zinc, Vitamin C and Collagen. A good dose of Vitamin C taken 30-60 minutes before swimming can help prevent chlorine damage. Zinc is a key nutrient for our skin and it’s great for reducing those unwanted pimples from popping up. Our skin smoothie recipe is a great way to boost your collagen intake!
• Replenish your skin with protective oils to improve skin hydration and resilience with an adequate dosage of fat-soluble vitamins like D, E, Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) and omegas from fish oil. One of my top recommendations for skin is sea buckthorn.
Your health practitioner can advise you on the correct dosage of supplements based on your nutritional needs to help you say goodbye to irritated skin this summer, so that all is left for you to do is blow up the inflatables, relax, and enjoy the pool!