I love summer. I love sunshine, and I love swimming — ocean or pool, it doesn’t make a difference! But all that sunshine, salt, sand, and chlorine can be very damaging to your hair, skin, and nails.
Always wear sunscreen! I can’t stress this one enough. Wearing sunscreen protects your skin from damage from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. That skin damage can develop into skin cancer over time — taking time to slather on sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer.
Help heal your skin:
- If you have sensitive skin, try applying a thin coat of Vaseline before you go into the water. A Vaseline barrier between your skin and the water can help reduce irritation and breakouts.
- If you have extra-dry skin from sun, salt, and chlorine, be sure to rinse off with fresh water after you swim. Apply a hydrating lotion before you go to bed (or more often, if you like) to help smooth things over.
- Drink plenty of water! Your body needs water to be healthy, and if you’re in the sun, you’ll be sweating it out. Staying hydrated can help relieve dry skin.
Help heal your hair:
- Rinse your hair with fresh water after you swim to wash away salt and chlorine.
- Have colored hair? Look for a UV protective hair cream to keep your color bright and shiny.
- Use a conditioner in the shower or try a leave-in conditioner after swimming.
- Your hair soaks up water quickly — especially chlorinated water. This can leave your hair dry and brittle. Pin your hair up out of the way of water or wear a swim cap to protect your locks. You can even use a leave-in conditioner or other hair treatment underneath your hat or swimming cap.
If too much water time is making your nails brittle or soft, try a strengthening nail polish. A polish with extra protein can help keep your nails strong; use it as a base coat underneath your favorite nail polish. Don’t forget the top coat to keep your nails looking good!