## Palm Springs Pools: Chlorine Lies About Youth?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun beats down, promising endless days of poolside bliss. But for those of us living in or visiting Palm Springs, that constant dip in the pool comes with a hidden cost: chlorine’s relentless assault on our skin. It’s not just about dryness; we’re talking accelerated aging, irritation, and a whole host of other skin woes.
Chlorine, while essential for keeping our pools clean, strips away the natural oils that protect our skin. This leads to dryness, which in turn can exacerbate fine lines and wrinkles. Think of it as fast-forwarding the aging process, one cannonball at a time.
But don’t despair! You don’t have to choose between youthful skin and enjoying the Palm Springs pool scene. With the right knowledge and a proactive approach, you can mitigate the damaging effects of chlorine and keep your skin looking its best.
First, let’s talk prevention. Sunscreen is your first line of defense, but not just any sunscreen will do. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher, and make sure they’re water-resistant. Brands like EltaMD and La Roche-Posay, readily available at local Palm Springs pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, are excellent choices. These brands often contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which provide a physical barrier against the sun and are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Apply sunscreen liberally 15-20 minutes before hitting the pool, and reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-neglected areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Beyond sunscreen, consider a pre-swim barrier cream. These creams create a protective layer between your skin and the chlorinated water, minimizing the absorption of chlorine. Look for products containing ingredients like dimethicone or petrolatum. You can find these at beauty supply stores like Sephora in Palm Desert.
Now, let’s address the post-swim damage control. The key is to neutralize the chlorine and replenish your skin’s moisture.
Here’s a simple DIY chlorine-neutralizing rinse you can make at home:
- Mix one cup of apple cider vinegar with four cups of water.
- After swimming, rinse your body with this solution.
- Follow with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to remove any remaining chlorine and vinegar.
Why apple cider vinegar? It helps to restore your skin’s natural pH balance, which is disrupted by chlorine.
Next, it’s time to moisturize. And not just any moisturizer will do in the dry desert climate of Palm Springs. You need something rich and emollient to replenish the lost oils. Look for moisturizers containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter. These ingredients help to hydrate and repair the skin barrier.
Consider brands like CeraVe or Cetaphil, widely available at local drugstores. Apply moisturizer immediately after showering, while your skin is still damp, to lock in moisture.
For an extra boost of hydration, consider using a hydrating serum before your moisturizer. Serums containing hyaluronic acid are particularly effective at drawing moisture into the skin.
But what if the damage is already done? What if your skin is already dry, irritated, or showing signs of premature aging?
That’s where professional treatments come in. Palm Springs is home to a number of excellent spas that offer post-sun/chlorine recovery treatments.
- The Well Spa at Miramonte Resort & Spa offers a variety of hydrating and restorative facials and body treatments.
- Estrella Spa at the Parker Palm Springs is known for its luxurious and results-oriented treatments.
- Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs offers unique mineral baths that can help to detoxify and hydrate the skin.
These spas often use specialized products and techniques to address the specific needs of chlorine-damaged skin. They may offer treatments like:
- Hydrating facials: These facials use masks and serums to replenish moisture and improve skin elasticity.
- Microdermabrasion: This treatment exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and revealing a brighter, smoother complexion.
- Chemical peels: These peels can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage.
Don’t underestimate the power of hydration from the inside out. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day, and consider adding electrolytes to your water to help replenish those lost through sweat.
One common mistake people make is using harsh soaps and cleansers after swimming. These products can further strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating the drying effects of chlorine. Instead, opt for gentle, sulfate-free cleansers that won’t irritate your skin.
Another pitfall is neglecting to exfoliate. Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, allowing your moisturizer to penetrate more effectively. However, be careful not to over-exfoliate, as this can further irritate the skin. Aim for exfoliating once or twice a week using a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant.
Finally, remember that consistency is key. Protecting your skin from chlorine is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can enjoy the Palm Springs pool scene without sacrificing the health and beauty of your skin. So go ahead, take a dip, and soak up the sun, knowing that you’re doing everything you can to protect your skin from the damaging effects of chlorine.