My niece is always dying her hair some outrageous color. Every time I see her it's a new shade of purple, blue, pink, or whatever. So, naturally, last summer it was this amazing neon green color. I told her I loved her new dye job. She laughed hysterically and said "I haven't done anything to it in a while, it's just the pool water that did this". Okay, so it worked out for her in that case, but not everyone is cool enough to pull off lime green hair. If you're looking for a way to prevent this, stay tuned. Today's post covers how you can protect your hair and skin from chlorine in swimming pools.

Chlorine used to balance the water can take its toll on your hair and skin. Swimming for long periods in chlorinated water can cause green, dry hair, chapped skin, and much more. This is common knowledge, so you're likely aware of the risks, especially if you're a pool owner. Let's take a look at how you can prevent and treat your hair and skin from chlorine exposure.

Hair

Regardless of hair color or length, you should always wet your hair before entering the water, as dry hair will quickly absorb Chlorine directly. All hair types can experience damage from chlorine exposure, so it's not a bad idea to prime your hair with a bit of coconut oil. Run it through your hair and let it absorb for a minute. Once you get in the water, it will act as a barrier between your hair and chlorine. It won't wash off in the water, but it could leave residue and phosphates, which feed algae. If you use coconut oil before a swim, be sure to vacuum and treat the water afterwards.

For those with lighter hair, you can purchase a product called  TRISWIM. This highly esteemed shampoo will help prevent your hair from turning green or blue in the water.

Skin

First and foremost, you have to protect your skin from the sun before the water. So, get yourself some waterproof sunscreen. There are even certain brands made for protecting your skin from sun AND chlorine. Next, make sure you shower before and after getting out of the pool. Phosphates from beauty products can cause the chlorine to work harder, which explains why you should shower before. Showering after ensures no chlorine stays on your skin post-swim. Another note, is that you should get out and shower or rinse off periodically if you're in the water for a long time. Extended exposure can result in dry or irritated skin.

Even without chlorine, water removes moisture from your skin. So, with all the swimming and showering, you'll want to end with some healing lotion. I personally prefer  Jergen's Ultra Healing Lotion.