Swimming and Chlorine- How to Protect Your Skin, Hair, and Health

　　Interviewer: "Joining us today to tackle a seasonal hot topic as the summer sun climbs high and we seek refreshment in the pool, we have an esteemed expert to unpack the impact of swimming, particularly with chlorinated water, on our skin, hair, and health. Welcome aboard! Let’s make a splash into this subject. To kick off, could you elaborate on the widespread use of chlorine in swimming pools and the implications it has on our bodies?"

　　Our bodies thrive on the purity of natural water, and it seems a no-brainer that diving into a pool would be a healthful choice. While swimming does offer numerous health benefits, the chemicals added to safeguard us from pathogens can have their drawbacks, affecting our skin, hair, and even our teeth. The key culprit here is—chlorine. This disinfecting agent, a greenish-yellow gas, is a double-edged sword. It’s notorious for turning blonde hair a fetching shade of green due to copper pipe exposure, and it can spell trouble for our skin as well. As our largest organ, our skin can soak up waterborne contaminants. Although chronic chlorine exposure has been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, the immediate effects on skin and hair are typically benign but uncomfortable, leading to dryness and irritation. The Pacific Center for Health also warns that chlorine can strip away essential proteins, leaving skin and hair parched and hair color compromised. But fear not, there are strategies to mitigate chlorine’s effects. For hair care, one can apply protective oils before swimming, wet hair with non-chlorinated water, invest in specialized shampoos, and utilize a swim cap and deep conditioning post-swim. To shield your skin, waterproof sunscreens, regular showers, and neutralizing lotions can help. Moreover, considering the subtle yet damaging effects of chlorine in everyday showers, installing a filter might be a prudent step. It’s worth noting that water itself can rob the skin of moisture, so applying a moisturizer after swimming can help to replenish the natural oils. And for those already affected by chlorine, take heart—the human body’s resilience can help reverse the damage with proper care and minimal chlorine exposure, allowing you to continue enjoying the pleasures of swimming."