Best Tips to Protect Tan While Swimming in Chlorine and Salt Water

#	Our Top Tips	When to Do It	What Makes This Effective
1	Exfoliate with AHAs 1-2x per week to remove dead skin cells.	Pre-Swim	Creates a smooth surface for even tanning and allows products to penetrate better.
2	Apply a waterproof SPF 30+ sunscreen 20 minutes before swimming.	Pre-Swim	Protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays and reduces the risk of burns and skin damage.
3	Wet your skin before entering the pool to limit chlorine absorption.	Pre-Swim	Pre-soaking prevents your skin from absorbing harmful chlorine or salt water.
4	Swim before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to avoid peak sun hours.	During Swim	Minimizes UV exposure during peak hours, reducing the risk of burns and skin aging.
5	Wear a hat or swim cap to protect your scalp and face from UV rays.	During Swim	Shields sensitive areas from sunburn and reduces premature aging of the skin.
6	Rinse immediately after swimming to remove chlorine or salt water.	Post-Swim	Prevents drying, irritation, and chemical buildup that can damage the skin barrier.
7	Use a hydrating lotion with antioxidants like Vitamin E after rinsing.	Post-Swim	Replenishes moisture, repairs damage from free radicals, and keeps skin glowing.
8	Pat skin dry gently, especially if wearing fake tan.	Post-Swim	Prevents streaking or patchiness while maintaining a flawless, long-lasting tan.
9	Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.	Pre, During, and Post-Swim	Flushes out chlorine, promotes healthy skin, and prevents dryness from sun or pool water.
10	Use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser after swimming.	Post-Swim	Protects the skin’s natural oils while ensuring repair and hydration.

Pre-Swim Preparation

Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells and damaged skin barriers, minimising the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

• A gentle exfoliating body wash removes dead skin cells and promotes even skin tone.
• Exfoliate your skin at least 1-2 times weekly to maintain healthy and glowing skin.
• If you are a regular swimmer, exfoliate using chemical exfoliators containing hydroxy acids which work by dissolving dead skin cells.

Protecting Your Skin from Chlorine and Salt Water

Use a Broad-Spectrum Waterproof Sun Cream

To protect your skin from harmful UV Rays (UVA and UVB rays), apply a broad-spectrum sun cream at least 15-20 minutes before swimming in a swimming pool. Reapply sun cream every two hours or immediately after the swimming pool to maintain continuous protection.

Choose a waterproof sun cream that will safeguard your skin from UV Rays, minimising the risks of skin damage and preventing skin cancer.

Choose a sun cream with a high sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 for optimal protection.

Reducing Sun Exposure

Swim During Off-Peak Hours

To minimise sun exposure and avoid intense sun rays, swim in an outdoor swimming pool during off-peak hours, ideally before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Avoiding swimming pools during peak sun hours to reduce the risks of skin damage and sunburn.

Wear a swim cap or hat to protect your scalp and face from UV Rays and minimise premature aging.

Minimising Damage from Chlorine and Salt Water

Wet Yourself Before Getting into the Pool

• Wet yourself before getting into swimming pools to prevent chlorine absorption and reduce skin damage.
• Use a quick shower to rinse off chlorine and other chemicals after swimming.
• Apply a barrier cream or petroleum jelly to exposed areas of your skin before swimming.

Post-Swim Care

Rinse and Moisturise Your Skin

• Rinse your entire body immediately after swimming to remove chlorine and other chemicals.
• Apply a hydrating lotion to replenish lost moisture, reduce dull-looking skin, and maintain hydrated skin.
• Use a gentle cleanser to clean your skin without stripping its natural oils.

Additional Tips for a Healthy Tan

Stay Hydrated and Moisturised

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while swimming. This helps replenish lost moisture, flush out chlorine, and purify the skin.
• Apply a moisturiser daily to your whole body to maintain hydrated skin and promote even skin tone.
• Use coconut oil or other natural oils to moisturise and nourish your skin.

Choosing the Right Products

Select a Gentle Cleanser and Moisturiser

• Choose a gentle cleanser that won't strip your skin of natural oils.
• Select a moisturiser rich in antioxidants and natural ingredients to promote healthy skin.
• Avoid using harsh products that can dry out your skin and cause damage.

Common Myths and FAQs

Does Swimming Give You a Tan?

The answer is yes! Swimming outdoors can give you a tan.

During swimming sessions in swimming pools, the skin is exposed to UV rays, which can cause exposed areas of the skin, like the shoulders and the back, to tan.

The sun's UV rays can penetrate the water, reflecting UVA and UVB Rays to cause a tan.

To protect your skin, use a broad-spectrum sun cream before swimming and reapply it from the pool. Use a broad-spectrum sun cream to protect your skin from UV radiation and prevent skin cancer.

Final Tips

Takeaway

Protecting your tan while swimming in chlorine and salt water requires pre-swim preparation, sun protection, and post-swim care.

Exfoliate regularly and stay hydrated to maintain healthy and glowing skin.
Use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sun cream to protect your skin from sun damage.

If you wear a fake tan, pat your skin dry after swimming. Do not rub, as this will cause the tan to go patchy.

Choose the right products and care for your skin to enjoy a healthy and long-lasting tan.