Swimming is a delightful activity, but when it’s accompanied with skin burning to tanned, things can be not so desirable. In fact, swimming and not getting any sun tanned can be a real challenge. However, there are many commercially available creams or lotion and even some type of special swimwear that protects you from the sun and chlorinated water. The bottom-line idea is to avail protection for your skin from both the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Here are some factors and tips that should be considered while you are choosing your sun protection while swimming -
High SPF Sunscreen
When you buy a sun guard product, the primary and basic thing to note is the SPF or Sun Protection Factor. This is a numerical value that helps you to compare the strength of one product to another. The value of the SPF specifies the duration in hours of how longer you can stay out using the sun protection product. However, this does not assure you to stay in the sun for longer, but just that your skin is getting enhanced protection with a greater SPF value as compared to the lesser one. Use this sunscreen (at least SPF 15) generously all over your body before you give a dip in the pool; preferably let it stay on your skin for at least 10 mins and then enter the pool.
Sensitivity of Sunscreen
Many people complain of skin rashes, burning sensation and itching after using a sunscreen; make sure you choose the correct product for your skin. Do a skin sensitivity test by applying the sunscreen on your elbow for few minutes and check the reactions. One of the widely used chemicals used in swimming sun block creams is PABA, which is found allergic to many people. If you are one of them then get a PABA free sunscreen.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Buy a waterproof sunscreen specifically for your swimming hours. They are water-resistant and very much effective even when you are in water. Most of these products retain their effect on your skin even after you are 80 minutes in the pool.
Repeated Application
One thing that must be remembered that any sun protection cream is wiped off after using the towel to dry yourself, thus re apply liberally every time when you pat dry yourself. For the protection of eyes while swimming get a reliable pair of sunglasses designed to protect eyes from UVA/UVB rays. You can use a hat while you come out of the pool for the head’s protection.
Change your timings
Despite the above mentioned precautions, if you fail to restrict the amount of sunburn, it’s advisable that you change your timings of swimming. Go to the pool early morning or late in the day when the sunlight is not at its peak – say around 10 AM-4 PM should be avoided.
Get a thorough bath after swimming
Water is not at all a good filter, thus you can get sunburned while swimming on a foggy, cloudy day. Thus make sure to wash yourself with a mild shampoo after every swim in a chlorinated pool as it damages the sunburned skin further more.
Photo Credit By: skinwhite.com