Before Swimming
Always use a sunscreen if you will be swimming outdoors. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, about 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 65 percent of melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Reapply sunscreen often.
After Swimming
Rinse your hair and body with fresh water after swimming to remove chemicals and salt or chlorine that can damage your skin. If you stay outside for a while, wear a cover-up and a hat. Lotions such as Aveeno are good for your skin; apply plenty of lotion to your clean skin.
Sunburn
If you get sunburned, immediately apply ice packs. If you are at home and have an aloe plant, cut off a piece and slice it down the middle, then apply the wet gel to your skin to help it heal. Carry some vitamin E oil with you when traveling or going swimming; it is also a good remedy for sunburn.
Swimmer's itch
Swimmer's itch is a common condition that does not usually require a visit to your doctor. If you swim in a pond, lake or ocean, you may contract cercarial dermatitis, a rash often called swimmer's itch. It is caused by parasites on waterfowl and snails. You will develop small pimples or blisters and your skin will itch, burn or tingle. Don't scratch, because that may produce a bacterial infection. Use corticosteroid cream and put cool compresses on your skin. Take a bath containing baking soda, Epsom salts or colloidal oatmeal. Calamine lotion will also help relieve the itch. You can also try applying a paste of baking soda and water.
