The effects of swimming on the skin
Q: How can I help clients protect their skin from the effects of regular swimming?
According to the most recent Health and Wellbeing of Swimming report, 42% of the UK population goes swimming, with seven million people swimming weekly.
Most of us can relate to the tight feeling we experience on our skin after being in the pool. Of course, the swimming pools in most spas are filled with chemicals (mainly chlorine) to protect us from bacteria that can be found in the water. Chlorine strips natural oils and moisture from our skin, leaving it with that familiar tight and itchy characteristic.
So how can we help clients to protect the skin after swimming? The first step would be to remove any remaining chemicals in a warm shower using a mild body cleanser and an effective facial cleanser, containing ingredients such as glycerine which will help to hydrate the skin and prevent moisture loss.
After cleansing, recommend that clients use a hydrating concentrate and treatment cream, focusing on re-establishing the skin’s moisture levels. It’s really important they don’t miss out any steps from their usual skincare routine.
Products that contain ingredients that have a focus on stimulating hydration, and work to keep it locked in, will not only leave their skin feeling comfortable but also protected. Using a fragrance-free eye balm will stop any irritation and help to protect the delicate skin around the eyes. Using a body moisturiser containing ingredients such as shea butter and brown seaweed osmolyte will leave the skin feeling hydrated and nourished.
Kirsti Shuba has 30 years’ industry experience and is managing director at Fraser Muir and co-founder of British skincare brand Katherine Daniels.