Under the Skin of Swimming

Under the Skin of Swimming

By Professor Greg Whyte OBE

Swimming’s a brilliant form of exercise. It’s full-body, low impact, and great for your fitness. But like any sport, it comes with its own set of demands. That means looking after yourself not just in the water, but out of it too.

Why Recovery and Aftercare Matter for Swimmers

Land-based training helps your body cope with what swimming throws at it. And when it comes to recovery, it’s not just about muscle repair. You’ve got to think about things like skin, hair and hydration, especially if you're in the water regularly.

Swimwear: Don’t Let Chlorine Ruin It

Chlorine (or rather the hypochlorite ion that is formed from chlorine in water) causes fabrics to fade quickly when not rinsed off immediately after swimming. You’ve probably noticed your swimwear fading or losing shape. That’s because chlorine affects elasticity as well as colour.

Quick tip:

  • Rinse your costume in fresh water (even just in the shower) straight after swimming.

  • Dry it fully before chucking it back in your kit bag.

This simple habit will save you money and stop your kit from going saggy and sad!

Skin After Swimming: How to Avoid ‘Swimmer’s Itch’

Swimming can really take it out on your skin. In pools, the chemicals that keep the water clean also strip moisture and natural oils from the skin. In open water, it’s salt, sun, and sometimes even parasites that can cause rashes or irritation. That’s where swimmer’s itch comes from. It’s very common, especially with regular exposure.

How to prevent swimmer’s skin problems:

  • Shower immediately after your swim to wash away chlorine or salt.

  • Use a soap or shower gel that helps neutralise chlorine.

  • Dry off thoroughly with a clean towel – don’t leave skin damp.

  • Moisturise all over. There are specialist swimming creams, but your usual moisturiser is fine too.

Hydrated skin = happy skin. Don’t skip this step.

Hair Care for Swimmers: No More Dry or Green Hair

Chlorinated pool water is harsh on your hair. It can leave it dry, brittle, and if you're blonde – even greenish! That lovely shade comes from oxidised metals like copper in pool water, not just the chlorine.

To protect your hair when swimming:

  • Use a swimming shampoo that removes chlorine, copper, and that chlorine smell.

  • Follow with a rich conditioner, especially if your hair is already dry.

  • Wear a swim cap to limit water exposure. It’s a time-saver and hair-saver in one.

Looking after your hair is not vanity – it’s basic recovery and self-care.

Hydration and Nutrition: Fuel Your Swim and Recovery

Hydration is absolutely key – before, during and after your swim. Swimming may not make you feel sweaty, but you’re still losing fluid. Dehydration affects performance, recovery, and even skin health.

And when it comes to nutritional support, collagen is a game-changer for swimmers.

At U Perform, we’ve developed Active Collagen specifically to support:

  • Skin health after exposure to chlorine and salt

  • Hair strength and quality

  • Joint and muscle recovery from training

Final Word

Swimming is brilliant. But looking after your body outside the water is just as important as what you do in the pool. Recovery, hydration, skin and hair care – they’re all part of performing at your best.

And remember: If you want to look great and feel even better, it starts under the skin.