Phoenix Pools: City Water Crashing Summer Lashes?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe shimmering heat rising off the pavement is a Phoenix summer staple. So are backyard pools. But that crystal-clear water, while refreshing, can wreak havoc on your eyes and especially your eyelashes. Chlorine, pH imbalances, and other pool chemicals strip away natural oils, leaving your eyes irritated and your lashes brittle and prone to breakage. Don’t resign yourself to red eyes and stubby lashes. With a few simple steps, you can protect your peepers and maintain healthy lashes all summer long.
First, invest in properly fitting swim goggles. This is non-negotiable. Don’t rely on cheap, ill-fitting goggles that leak. Head to your local CVS or Walgreens in Phoenix – locations like the one on Camelback Road or the one near Desert Ridge Marketplace – and look for goggles specifically designed for swimming. Brands like Speedo and TYR offer a variety of options. The key is to find a pair that creates a tight seal around your eyes without being uncomfortably tight. Test the suction by pressing the goggles to your face without the strap. They should stay in place for a few seconds. If they fall off immediately, they’re not the right fit.
A common mistake is overtightening the goggle strap. This doesn’t improve the seal; it just creates pressure and discomfort, leading to those dreaded goggle marks. Adjust the strap until the goggles feel secure but not constricting.
Before you even dip a toe in the pool, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) to your eyelashes. This creates a barrier against the chlorine. You can find Vaseline at any drugstore in Phoenix, from the Walgreens on Bell Road to the CVS on Tatum Boulevard. Use a clean mascara wand or a cotton swab to apply the Vaseline carefully, avoiding getting it in your eyes. This simple step can significantly reduce chlorine exposure and prevent your lashes from drying out.
After your swim, rinse your eyes immediately with a sterile saline solution. This helps to flush out any remaining chlorine and other irritants. You can purchase saline solution at any pharmacy in Phoenix. Look for preservative-free options, as these are gentler on the eyes. A good option is the CVS Health Saline Wound Wash. Keep a bottle in your pool bag for easy access.
Don’t just splash water on your face and call it a day. Plain water can actually exacerbate the problem by further drying out your skin and lashes. Saline solution is specifically formulated to be gentle and effective at removing irritants.
Now, let’s talk about lash care. Chlorine strips away natural oils, leaving your lashes dry and brittle. To combat this, incorporate castor oil into your nightly routine. Castor oil is a natural emollient that helps to moisturize and strengthen lashes. You can find it at most drugstores in Phoenix, often in the skincare or hair care aisle. The Walgreens on 7th Street and McDowell Road usually carries it.
Before bed, apply a small amount of castor oil to your eyelashes using a clean mascara wand or cotton swab. Be careful not to get it in your eyes. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off in the morning with warm water. Consistent use of castor oil can help to improve lash health and prevent breakage.
A common pitfall is using too much castor oil. A little goes a long way. Applying too much can cause the oil to drip into your eyes, leading to blurry vision and irritation. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed.
Another natural remedy to consider is coconut oil. Similar to castor oil, coconut oil is a great moisturizer. It can help to replenish the natural oils that are stripped away by chlorine. You can find coconut oil at most grocery stores and drugstores in Phoenix. The Fry’s on Indian School Road and the Safeway on Scottsdale Road are good options.
Apply a small amount of coconut oil to your eyelashes before bed and rinse it off in the morning. You can also use it as a makeup remover, which can be gentler on your lashes than harsh chemical-based removers.
Beyond these immediate pre- and post-swim routines, consider your overall lash health. Avoid rubbing your eyes excessively, as this can weaken and break your lashes. Be gentle when removing eye makeup. Use a gentle, oil-based makeup remover and avoid tugging or pulling on your lashes.
If you wear mascara, choose a formula that is specifically designed to be gentle on lashes. Avoid waterproof mascaras, as these can be difficult to remove and can cause lash breakage.
Finally, remember that consistency is key. These tips won’t work overnight. It takes time and consistent effort to protect your eyes and maintain healthy lashes. Make these routines a part of your regular swimming routine, and you’ll be able to enjoy your Phoenix pool all summer long without sacrificing your eye and lash health. So, grab your goggles, Vaseline, saline solution, and castor oil, and get ready to make a splash!