Tip of the week: Protecting yourself from chlorine

Clean thoroughly. Chlorine in swimming pools kills bacteria but also irritates skin by removing moisturizing oils. After swimming, shower with soap and water or use a chlorine-fighting bodywash like Triswim.

Be careful with your eyes. Chlorine obviously burns eyes, and goggles go a long way to protect them. Wearing contact lenses prolongs irritation by holding in chlorine; you should throw these out. A better option: prescription goggles, “surprisingly affordable”at between $20 and $60.

Save your hair. “Slap on some hair product” before hitting the pool to prevent chlorine from drying out your hair. “Oil- and silicone-based products are best.” Wet your hair in a shower before diving in; that keeps it from soaking up too much pool water. And wash your hair as soon as possible after swimming.

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Source: Health.com