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The 5 best hair products for swimmers

One of the less pleasant side-effects of pool time is the toll that chlorinated water takes on skin and hair but Rebecca Gonsalves has figured out the best way to protect it and stop that unwanted chemical smell lingering long into the evening

Rebecca Gonsalves
Friday 23 October 2015 19:12 BST
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Stop that unwanted chemical smell lingering long into the evening
Stop that unwanted chemical smell lingering long into the evening

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I was never particularly diligent in my pursuit of the dark arts of physical exercise at school, and years later the thought of being seen in Spandex brings me out in a cold sweat. Swimming, though, is a completely different story. On holiday I spend so much time splashing around that I occasionally worry that I might dissipate altogether. I've recently become a regular at my local pool, which has had a beneficial impact on the health of my body – inside and out – not to mention my mind. It's amazing how the tension of the day simply washes away.

One of the less pleasant side-effects of pool time is the toll that chlorinated water takes on skin and hair. But I've figured out the best way to protect it and stop that unwanted chemical smell lingering long into the evening. As I tend to swim in the evening and go straight home afterwards I bring my bedtime products and apply them after a shower rather than rewashing and doing it at home.

Lait crème fluide

£28, Embryolisse, boots.com

Chlorine can leave skin unbearably itchy but this lotion is rich enough to replenish and absorbs quickly, so I can pull on my skinny jeans straight away.

Masque Crème Fraiche de beauté

£18.50, nuxe.com

An occasional extra moisture boost, I leave this on while I'm drying my hair and then rub in any excess, concentrating on any dry patches.

Mega mushroom skin relief micellar cleanser

£27.50, Dr Andrew Weil for Origins

Using a harsh cleanser before getting in the pool can cause a painful reaction, but this gently removes make-up and the grime of the day

Swimcap

£22, philipkingsley.co.uk

If you can't bear a traditional swimming cap, this conditioner will help block damaging pool chemicals.

Replenishing body wash

£8, Eucerin, boots.com

I've found unscented shower gel the best way to get rid of the chlorine smell, and this body wash is mild yet efficient.

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