Swimming is a great way to stay active and cool off during hot summer days, but it can also take a toll on your skin and hair. Chlorine and salt water can strip away natural oils and leave your skin feeling dry and itchy, while exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn and premature ageing.

Fortunately, with the right skincare routine, you can keep your skin and hair healthy and glowing even after a day in the pool or ocean.

In this article, we'll share some top tips for taking care of your skin and hair after swimming, so you can enjoy your time in the water without sacrificing your beauty regimen.

Prep and Protect in the Morning

The first step to taking care of your skin when you have to be in the water all day is to prep your skin correctly in the morning. When you're spotting fascinating wildlife on your exciting Galapagos cruise, you have to protect your skin from the elements, the sun, salt water, and wind. Make sure to apply a reef-safe sunscreen on top of a weightless barrier cream. Give your cream products time to dry down before you jump in the water.

When it comes to your hair, it's better to swim with slightly dirty hair. If you can find a protective oil that is safe for marine life, then you can use a bit of that product to coat the ends of your hair, which will help slow down the damaging effects of the sun and sea. One product you can rely on is coconut oil. It's safe to use in the ocean and also creates a protective layer on your hair. You can also use it on the skin, but it can clog pores and will intensify UV rays, so it's best to avoid using it on your face.

Reapply Sunscreen Frequently

The most important thing you can do for your skin when you're on vacation is to reapply sunscreen. When you're spending time at sea exploring reefs and diving into the water regularly, then your sunscreen may not last as long as it says on the manufacturer's recommendations. Even the best waterproof sunscreens will let you down if you don't reapply. 

Try to organise your day so that you have breaks of at least 30 minutes between excursions. That way, you'll have time to dry off and reapply sunscreen before diving back in the water. Make sure to use a mineral sunscreen that is safe for both marine life and reefs.  Many sunscreens contain harmful chemicals so opt for natural-based sunscreens that clearly label they are reef and aquatic life safe.

Shower Immediately After Swimming

Once you're out of the water for the day, it's best to shower immediately. If you have dinner plans and your friends are heading straight to the restaurant from the beach, make sure to pack your cleanser and skincare products with you so that you can refresh before heading to dinner. 

The longer you wait to shower after you swim, the worse the effects will be on your skin and hair. You risk the chance of your skin and hair drying out with lingering salt and chemicals still there, which is a recipe for breakouts and breakage.

Use Gentle Cleansing Products

Even though you may feel extra grimy after swimming, make sure to stick to gentle cleansing products. The sun, water, and wind will all work to strip your skin of its natural protective barrier, so, while you need to cleanse, you have to do so gently. Also, avoid exfoliating as that could increase irritation and redness.

Go Heavy on Hydration Overnight

As you get ready to turn in for the night, you should use very hydrating products on your skin and hair. Your heavy moisturisers will be your best friends to help you replenish the moisture lost during the day. If you're doing a lot of swimming, for more than one day, you might want to invest in overnight hydration products such as hair masks and overnight serums that can nourish your skin and hair while you sleep.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing protective clothing such as rash guards, swim caps, and hats can help shield your skin and hair from the sun's harmful rays, saltwater, and chlorine. Rash guards can provide an extra layer of protection against the sun's UV rays, which can cause skin damage and premature ageing. Swim caps can help protect your hair from the harsh chemicals in the water, and hats can help shield your face and scalp from the sun. By wearing protective clothing, you can help prevent damage to your skin and hair while enjoying your time in the water.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin and hair hydrated, especially when you're spending time in the sun and water. We recommend drinking pure distilled water.  The sun and saltwater can dehydrate your skin and hair, which can lead to dryness and damage. By drinking water regularly, you can help replenish lost fluids and keep your skin and hair looking and feeling healthy.

Use Leave-In Conditioner

Applying leave-in conditioner to your hair before swimming can help prevent tangles and damage. Chlorine and salt water can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Using a leave-in conditioner can help protect your hair from these harsh elements and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny. Look for a formula that is safe for both your hair and the environment, such as a natural or organic product.

Use Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel can help soothe and moisturise sunburned or irritated skin after swimming. The sun and saltwater can cause redness, inflammation, and dryness, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. Aloe vera gel contains anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties, making it an ideal remedy for sunburn and irritation. You can apply it to your face and body to help reduce redness and inflammation and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth.

Avoid Hot Showers

Taking hot showers can further dry out your skin and hair after swimming. Hot water can strip your skin and hair of their natural oils, leaving them dry and itchy. Instead, opt for lukewarm or cool water to help lock in moisture and prevent further damage. You can also try adding a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree, to your shower to help soothe and nourish your skin and hair.

Final word

In conclusion, taking care of your skin and hair after swimming doesn't have to be a hassle. By following these top tips, you can protect and nourish your skin and hair, so you can enjoy your time in the water without sacrificing your beauty regimen. Remember to wear protective clothing, drink plenty of water, use a leave-in conditioner, apply aloe vera gel, and avoid hot showers to keep your skin and hair healthy and hydrated. With a little bit of extra effort and preparation, you can maintain a fresh, youthful look even after a day of swimming. So, go ahead and dive in - your skin and hair will thank you for it!