Skin Care for Swimmers: A Derm-Approved Guide to Care for Your Skin Before and After a Swim
Swimming is that kind of full-body workout that feels more like play than punishment. But while your muscles are loving all that cardio and strength training, your skin? Probably not so thrilled. Prolonged exposure to saltwater, chlorine, and the sun can lead to all sorts of skin drama. Think dryness, itching, breakouts—even premature skin aging. Here’s the good news: a solid skin care for swimmers routine can help ensure your skin stays calm, hydrated, and protected before and after you hit the water. To help you dive in (pun very much intended), we asked a dermatologist for the best pre- and post-swim skincare tips.
Meet the Expert
- Dr. Connie Yang- - Board-certified dermatologist and member of Dermstore's Medical Advisory Board
How Can Swimmers Protect Their Skin?
A good skin care for swimmers routine starts well before your first lap—and doesn’t end with rinsing and hoping for the best, says Dr. Connie Yang, board-certified dermatologist and member of Dermstore’s Medical Advisory Board. Before taking the plunge, apply an emollient, body oil, or rich lotion to create a protective barrier and limit your skin’s contact with chlorine or salt. Sunscreen, of course, is a no-brainer if you’re swimming outdoors, but make sure to switch to a broad-spectrum and water-resistant formula. Reapplication is also just as crucial: you should re-up every time you get out of the water and towel off or whenever its water-resistance time has elapsed (typically 40 or 80 minutes).
You’ll also want to make sure you get rid of all chemical and saltwater residue on your skin, so rinsing off with fresh water immediately after your swim is a must. Follow this up with a hydrating lotion to quickly restore your skin’s moisture balance.
If you want to take it a step further, consider saving that cute bikini for lounging poolside and opting instead for a rash guard made from UV-protective fabric to reduce your skin’s direct exposure to harsh pool chemicals and sunlight.
Which Skin Care Products are the Most Important for Swimmers?
Sunscreen remains the ultimate must-have skincare product any time you’re spending time outdoors, but for swimmers, the type of SPF you’re packing can make a huge difference. “No sunscreen is completely waterproof but look for water-resistant ones. I find that zinc-based mineral SPFs tend to last longer on the skin in the water. Plus, they are reef-safe,” she explains.
Cleansers and moisturizers are just as essential as these can “restore the skin’s barrier after exposure to saltwater and chlorine.” Gentle, non-stripping, and sulfate-free face washes remove impurities and residue without disrupting your skin’s pH balance or worsening any dryness you may be experiencing after a swim. Moisturizers and hydrating antioxidant serums, on the other hand, can instantly replenish lost moisture and defend against free radical damage.
Ingredients to Look for in Skin Care for Swimmers
Protecting, hydrating, and soothing your skin are key in building a skin care for swimmers routine, especially since chlorine and saltwater can be particularly harsh and drying on the skin, explains Dr. Yang. “Swimmers should focus their skincare routine on replenishing that moisture and strengthening their skin barrier,” she adds. Key ingredients for a swimmer-friendly regimen include:
Niacinamide: Counters inflammation and skin barrier damage caused by exposure to the elements. Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin: Attack and lock in moisture to combat post-swim dryness and dehydration. Ceramides: Reinforce the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. Aloe Vera: Instantly soothes and relieves redness and irritation after chlorine, saltwater, or sun exposure. Vitamin C: Brightens and defends skin from free radical damage caused by sun and chemicals. Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide: Provide long-lasting sun protection and are reef-safe.
Shop the Best Skin Care for Swimmers
1. MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Crème SPF30
8 reviews
$35.00
Boosted by the brand’s own ProVention-R® technology, this antioxidant- and zinc oxide-powered tinted UV filter provides broad-spectrum protection versus UVA and UVB rays while lending a hand in restoring skin, preventing future damage, and blurring existing imperfections.
Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Vitamin C, Green Tea, Cranberry Fruit and Pomegranate Extracts
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Non-irritating protection from UV rays, silky and lightweight, smoothes and blurs pores and imperfections, antioxidant-enriched, promotes skin health
Beauty Insider Tip: Designed to complement all skin tones and types, this multi-action primer can act as a mattifying primer under makeup but also works beautifully on its own, leaving your skin with a smooth, filter-like finish.
2. MDSolarSciences Quick Dry Body Spray SPF40
2 reviews
$24.00
Water-resistant and quick-drying, this non-aerosol chemical sunscreen features a vitamin C-boosted formula to keep not only harmful UV rays at bay but also free radical damage. Bonus points for its 360-degree delivery so you won't have any trouble spritzing all those hard-to-reach places.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Indian Gooseberry, Avobenzone 3%, Octisalate 5%, Octocrylene 2.75%
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Non-aerosol broad-spectrum spray, gentle even on sensitive skin, lightweight and non-greasy, fast-absorbing, antioxidant protection
Beauty Insider Tip: To get optimal sun protection, apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after towel drying.
3. Obagi Sun Shield Mineral Broad Spectrum SPF 50
4 reviews
$59.00
Mineral-based, water-resistant (40 minutes), and reef-safe, this sheer, quick-absorbing sunscreen ticks all the boxes. Aside from giving your skin serious UVA and UVB defense, it also scores major points for shielding the skin against infrared and HEV or blue light.
Key Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Nasturtium Flower Extract
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Provides comprehensive defense against UVA/UVB, infrared, and blue light; non-greasy, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic; reef-safe
Beauty Insider Tip: This derm-tested SPF boasts an ultra-gentle formula that makes it ideal for post-procedure skin.
4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted Mineral Light Fluid SPF 50
This 100 percent mineral sunscreen comes in a non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and water-resistant formula that combines powerful UV protection with superior free radical defense, courtesy of the brand’s proprietary antioxidant technology.
Key Ingredients: Cell-Ox B3 Shield® Technology, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Comprehensive UV protection, antioxidant defense, fast-absorbing and blendable, lightweight with a matte finish, water-resistant
Beauty Insider Tip: This sunscreen comes in four subtle, flexible shades–tinted, medium, medium-deep, and deep–that perfectly mesh with all skin tones and make for an excellent base under makeup.
5. EltaMD UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
91 reviews
$37.00
From the most trusted name in sun protection, this best-selling, water-resistant mineral sunscreen is your ultimate swim buddy. Featuring high SPF protection and broad-spectrum defense, it boasts a formula boosted by antioxidants and hydrators to combat skin-aging free radical damage caused by UV rays, infrared, and HEV light.
Key Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Vitamin C
Skin Type: Acne-Prone, Dry, Normal, Oily
Skin Benefit(s): Excellent UVA/UV protection, defends against infrared and HEV or blue light, water- and sweat-resistant up to 80 minutes, prevents dryness and restores moisture
Beauty Insider Tip: This fast-absorbing sunscreen starts with a sheen-like look when applied then immediately dries down, leaving you with a matte, shine-free finish.
6. Pai Skincare Middlemist Seven Camellia And Rose Gentle Cream Cleanser
1 reviews
$59.00
Powered by a blend of the most nourishing and skin-loving oils, this creamy and dreamy face wash is the perfect post-swim treat for skin that needs thorough cleansing while preserving its delicate oil and pH balance.
Key Ingredients: Camellia Oil, Rose Oil, Castor Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Lavender Oil, Vitamin E
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Gently and easily lifts away dirt and makeup, rebalances pH, restores and locks in moisture, certified clean and vegan
Beauty Insider Tip: This derm-approved cream cleanser comes with an organic cotton Twin Flyer muslin cloth that gently removes all the ick with every sweep.
7. Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Facial Cleanser
$38.00
If your skin has been having a rough time and showing signs of a damaged skin barrier, this gentle face cleanser is your first step to bringing back healthy, naturally glowing skin. All thanks to its soothing blend of botanicals that ensures optimal cleansing while boosting hydration and comforting compromised skin.
Key Ingredients: Chamomile, Bergamot, Willow Bark, Rose Damascena Flower, Aloe Vera
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Cleanses gently, hydrates and soothes, promotes natural radiance, improves product absorption
Beauty Insider Tip: On damp skin, massage a small amount of the product with your fingertips and add warm water to create a lather.
8. Aesop Eleos Nourishing Body Cleanser
$37.00
This refreshing body cleanser brings chlorine- and saltwater-soaked skin back to life with its gentle and ultra-hydrating formula, ensuring your skin is immediately cleansed, nourished, and restored from neck to toe.
Key Ingredients: Cedar Atlas Bark Oil, Glycerin, Shea Butter, Lavender Oil
Skin Type: Dry
Skin Benefit(s): Cleanses while moisturizing skin, promotes softer and more supple complexion
Beauty Insider Tip: Formulated for dry and dehydrated skin, dispense a generous amount of the product into hands or sponge and gently massage onto damp skin to instantly rejuvenate skin.
9. MZ Skin Hydrate & Nourish Age Defence Retinol Day Moisturizer SPF30
$150.00
This retinol-infused moisturizer takes on signs of anti-aging and replenishes lost moisture as you go about your day. Yes, you heard that right: it’s a daytime retinol wonder. How, you ask? The answer lies in its pioneering formula that combines an intense dose of hyaluronic acid, encapsulated and non-irritating retinol, and SPF.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Moisturizes and softens skin, brightens, protects against free radicals and sun damage, tackles signs of aging, boosts collagen production
Beauty Insider Tip: In the morning, apply this moisturizer over face, neck, and décolleté and wait 10 minutes before proceeding with your makeup routine.
10. IMAGE Skincare VITAL C Hydrating Facial Cleanser
23 reviews
$40.00
Keep your skin soft and glowing even after a long training sesh in the pool with this hydrating cleanser that emulsifies to gently remove makeup, chemical residue, and impurities–all without stripping or drying out your skin.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Soapwart, Superoxide Dimustase
Skin Type: Dry, Sensitive
Skin Benefit(s): Brightens and nourishes skin, protects against free radicals, gently cleanses and removes dirt, makeup, and other impurities
Beauty Insider Tip: This nourishing cleanser helps to relieve the dryness, itching, and irritation commonly experienced by chlorine-soaked skin.
11. Sunday Riley ICE Ceramide Moisturizing Cream
85 reviews
$65.00
With ceramides at the helm, this rich yet lightweight moisturizer works hard to strengthen and restore the skin barrier by delivering and locking in much-needed moisture, preventing water loss, and replenishing lipid levels.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Vitamin F, Coconut, Red Algae Extract, Pomegranate Sterols
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Hydrates and prevents water loss, restores the skin barrier, protects from environmental stressors
Beauty Insider Tip: Apply this dryness-banishing cream day and night to swim-proof your skin and maintain a soft, glowing, and hydrated complexion.
12. Augustinus Bader The Body Cream
3 reviews
$112.00
Say goodbye to stubbornly dry skin and keep chlorine and saltwater damage at bay with this luxurious body cream that delivers deep hydration and comfort while firming the skin, supporting barrier function, and smoothing out tone and texture.
Key Ingredients: TFC8®, Bisabolol, Polysaccharide Moisture Complex, Shea Butter
Skin Type: All skin types
Skin Benefit(s): Tones, firms, and evens skin; improves overall hydration; fortifies and restores skin barrier; softens and smooths
Beauty Insider Tip: Apply this body moisturizer post-swim to instantly soothe, comfort, and rejuvenate your complexion.
How Does Chlorine Impact Skin Health
Although chlorine is excellent at disinfecting pool water, it’s not so great for your skin. “Chlorine is very drying on the skin and can strip it of its natural oils,” explains Dr. Yang. “Prolonged exposure can disrupt the skin barrier and trigger flareups of conditions like eczema and rosacea.”
Repeated chlorine exposure interferes with your skin’s microbiome and weakens its natural barrier, leaving your skin looking and feeling extra dry, rough, itchy, and sensitive. To prevent this, Dr. Yang recommends the following steps to swim-proof your complexion.
Pre-Swim Skin Care
Apply a barrier cream or occlusive balm: Applying a petrolatum jelly or silicone-based lotion before swimming helps protect the skin from chemical exposure, says Dr. Yang. Rinse with fresh water before swimming: This reduces how much chlorinated water your skin absorbs. Use a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen: UV rays reflect off the water’s surface, which means your skin is not only getting direct UV exposure but also secondary radiation, leading to accelerated sun damage.
Post-Swim Skin Care
Rinse immediately after swimming: Getting rid of chlorine or saltwater residue is important to prevent irritation and over-dryness. Use a gentle cleanser: Remove impurities and remaining traces of chlorine or saltwater and reset your skin’s pH balance. Apply a hydrating serum: Look for humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin as well as antioxidants like vitamin E, vitamin C, and green tea that prevent oxidative stress while helping the skin retain moisture. Seal everything in with a moisturizer: Opt for niacinamide- and ceramide-enriched moisturizers to restore and fortify your skin barrier. Keep your mist handy: A refreshing toner or mist is a great way to instantly soothe and rejuvenate parched skin after a swim.
Can the Skin Barrier Be Compromised?
As the body’s frontline defense, the skin barrier does the heavy lifting to protect the skin and body from external threats, but several factors can also put it at risk. And yes, swimming is one of the major culprits. “Chlorine can compromise the skin barrier and throw off the skin’s natural pH with prolonged exposure,” says Dr. Yang. That’s because the skin is acidic in nature, and extended contact with an alkaline like chlorine can lead to inflammation and irritation.
If you notice that your skin feels tight, looks dull, or becomes highly reactive to certain ingredients, it may be a sign that your skin barrier needs extra TLC. Here’s how you can prevent and repair barrier damage, according to Dr. Yang.
How to Repair:
Apply a barrier cream: Before swimming, add a layer of protection between your skin and harsh pool chemicals or saltwater. Choose one that’s packed with ceramides, fatty acids, and nourishing oils to help your skin lock in moisture and fortify its natural barrier. Skip heavy-hitting ingredients: Look for ingredients like niacinamide, growth factors, and ceramides to double down on moisturizing and take advantage of your skin’s natural repair process while you sleep. Switch to a richer moisturizer at night: Look for ingredients like niacinamide, growth factors, and ceramides to double down on moisturizing and take advantage of your skin’s natural repair process while you sleep. Stay consistent with your pre- and post-swim routine: Consistency is key if you want to avoid compromising your skin barrier and prevent further damage.
FAQ
Which Skincare Concerns are the Most Common Among Swimmers?
While we all deal with dryness, dehydration, pigmentation, and sun damage from time to time, swimmers are at a higher risk of experiencing these common skin concerns due to prolonged and repeated exposure to harsh pool chemicals, saltwater, or UV radiation. Additionally, swimmers can develop chlorine sensitivity, which can trigger redness and irritation and disrupt barrier function. Chlorine and hard minerals in water can also clog pores and trigger breakouts.
The Bottom Line
Reaping the health benefits of swimming doesn’t need to come at the expense of your skin. With the right products and a tailored approach to skin care for swimmers, you can indulge in your favorite activity without sacrificing your skin’s health. The secret? Choosing ingredients that strengthen and protect the skin barrier, focusing on soothing and restoring your skin, and an uncompromising commitment to sun protection. With a consistent, barrier-focused pre- and post-swim routine, your skin can stay balanced, hydrated, and well-protected all year.
Janeca Racho is a Journalism graduate with over 15 years of writing experience. After getting her start in public relations and advertising, she made the switch to freelance writing and began working for various lifestyle, fashion, and travel brands. Her love for all things skincare has led her to beauty reporting and research for the last ten years. Writing for several hair and beauty blogs, she reports on anti-aging staples, trending brands and products, must-have ingredients, and health and wellness.
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