Palm Springs Pools: Desert Air Crashing Eye Lipids?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 8, 2026

The desert sun beats down, reflecting off the shimmering pools that dot the landscape of Palm Springs. It’s an oasis, a playground, a place to escape. But beneath the surface of this idyllic scene lies a potential threat to your skin and eyes, especially if you’re not prepared. The very elements that make Palm Springs so appealing – the intense sun, the dry air, and those inviting pools – can wreak havoc on your delicate skin and eyes.

Palm Springs’ unique climate presents a double whammy: extremely low humidity and intense sun exposure. This combination aggressively strips moisture from your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and accelerated aging. The lack of moisture in the air pulls water from your skin, leaving it feeling tight, itchy, and uncomfortable.

And then there are the pools. While a refreshing dip seems like the perfect antidote to the desert heat, the heavily chlorinated water can further exacerbate dryness, particularly for those with sensitive skin or eczema. Chlorine, while essential for sanitation, is a powerful drying agent that strips away natural oils, leaving your skin vulnerable.

Let’s talk about dry eyes. The dry desert air evaporates tears at an accelerated rate, leading to that gritty, burning sensation. This is compounded by the wind, which further dries the eyes and can carry dust and debris, causing irritation.

And don’t forget your lips! They’re often the most neglected part of our skincare routine, yet they’re incredibly vulnerable to the elements. The thin skin on your lips lacks oil glands, making them prone to chapping, cracking, and even sunburn.

So, how do you combat these desert-induced woes and enjoy all that Palm Springs has to offer without sacrificing your skin and eye health? Here’s a comprehensive guide, focusing on readily available products at local pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, and practical tips for pool maintenance and hydration.

Hydration is Key: Inside and Out

This isn’t just generic advice; it’s the foundation of desert survival.

Drink Water Strategically: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day. Aim for at least a gallon of water daily, especially when active or spending time outdoors. Consider adding electrolytes to your water, especially if you’re sweating a lot. Look for electrolyte tablets or powders at your local pharmacy. Nuun and Liquid I.V. are popular and readily available brands.
Humidify Your Home: A humidifier, especially in your bedroom, can significantly improve the air quality and prevent moisture loss overnight. Look for cool-mist humidifiers, which are generally safer and more energy-efficient. Clean your humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Hydrating Foods: Incorporate water-rich foods into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and celery. These foods not only hydrate you but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Skincare Saviors: Building Your Desert Defense

Your skincare routine needs to be a fortress against the harsh desert environment.

Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh soaps that strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser like Cetaphil or CeraVe, both widely available at Palm Springs pharmacies. These cleansers are formulated to cleanse without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum: This is your secret weapon. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air and binds it to your skin. Apply a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin after cleansing to maximize its effectiveness. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is an affordable and effective option.
Rich Moisturizer: A thick, emollient moisturizer is essential to lock in hydration and create a protective barrier against the dry air. Look for moisturizers containing ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and glycerin. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and Vanicream Moisturizing Cream are excellent choices for dry and sensitive skin.
Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen: This cannot be overstated. The Palm Springs sun is intense, and daily sunscreen use is non-negotiable. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a popular choice among dermatologists and is available at some pharmacies or online. Reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Lip Care is Crucial: Carry a moisturizing lip balm with SPF at all times. Look for balms containing ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or cocoa butter. Aquaphor Lip Repair and Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm are readily available and effective options. Apply liberally and frequently, especially before and after sun exposure.

Eye Care Essentials: Soothing Dry Eyes

Don’t let dry eyes ruin your Palm Springs experience.

Artificial Tears: These are your go-to for immediate relief. Look for preservative-free artificial tears, as preservatives can irritate sensitive eyes. Systane Ultra and Refresh Tears are widely available and effective options. Use them liberally throughout the day, especially when you feel your eyes getting dry or irritated.
Nighttime Ointment: Apply a lubricating eye ointment before bed to provide long-lasting relief and prevent overnight dryness. Refresh PM Lubricant Eye Ointment is a good option.
Sunglasses are a Must: Protect your eyes from the sun and wind with wraparound sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Consider a Humidifier: As mentioned earlier, a humidifier in your bedroom can help to alleviate dry eyes overnight.

Pool Maintenance Matters: Minimizing Chlorine Exposure

You can’t control the chlorine levels in public pools, but you can manage your home pool.

Maintain Proper Chlorine Levels: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pool’s chlorination system. Over-chlorination can exacerbate dryness. Test your pool water regularly to ensure proper chemical balance.
Shower Before and After Swimming: Showering before entering the pool helps to remove dirt and oils that can react with chlorine, creating irritating byproducts. Showering after swimming helps to remove chlorine from your skin.
Apply a Barrier Cream: Before swimming, apply a thick layer of moisturizer or a barrier cream like Vaseline to your skin to create a protective barrier against the chlorine.
Swim Caps and Goggles: Protect your hair and eyes from chlorine by wearing a swim cap and goggles.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Not Drinking Enough Water: This is the most common mistake. Set reminders on your phone to drink water throughout the day.
Skipping Sunscreen: Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can penetrate and damage your skin. Make sunscreen application a daily habit.
Using Harsh Soaps: Harsh soaps strip your skin of its natural oils, making dryness worse. Switch to a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
Not Reapplying Moisturizer: Moisturizer needs to be reapplied throughout the day, especially after washing your hands or showering.
Ignoring Lip Care: Your lips are particularly vulnerable to the desert elements. Apply lip balm with SPF frequently.
Rubbing Your Eyes: This can irritate dry eyes and make them worse. Use artificial tears instead.

By following these tips and incorporating these readily available products into your daily routine, you can enjoy all that Palm Springs has to offer without sacrificing your skin and eye health. Remember, prevention is key. A proactive approach to hydration, skincare, and eye care will help you thrive in the desert environment. Don’t let the dry air and chlorinated pools get the best of you. Embrace the desert lifestyle with confidence and a healthy glow.