Over the last 30 years or so, swimmers and sunbathers have become increasingly conscious of taking care of their skin. Sunscreen use has skyrocketed and created a 13 billion dollar industry. It comes in many forms including pastes, lotions and sprays. While the different types of sunscreen we use are very effective at protecting our skin, it does get into our swimming water, which means it will have an effect. Paying attention to how much sunscreen you are using should become a regular part of your swimming routine.
Sunscreen and Your Health
It is well known that there are several advantages to using sunscreen as a way to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors in your pool and in the sun, you want to be sure to apply sunscreen before and after swimming for optimal protection.
What Sunscreen Is Best?
When it comes to sunscreen, the choices are endless. There's creams and sprays, several levels of SPF and brands that are water-resistant. When choosing a sunscreen don't necessarily look at SPF levels. Instead, you want to make sure it states how well it blocks UVB rays. A higher SPF level in one brand may actually block less UVB rays than another brand with a lower SPF.
If you plan to do a lot of swimming this summer be sure to choose a brand that is water resistant. According to the FDA, this means a sunscreen's SPF will stay effective even after 40 to 80 minutes of swimming. However, water resistant does not mean water proof. You will want to reapply after swimming.
Sunscreen And Your Water's Chemistry
Your swimming pool's water chemistry is an important part of your swimming pool enjoyment and no one understands that best than the team here at Super Shark Pools.
No matter what brand you use, sunscreen is harmful to your pool water chemistry. While it is important for protection against UV rays, it does reduce the water quality by affecting the chlorine levels. For the pool owner, this often creates a chemical imbalance that will make your pool cloudy and cause skin and eye irritations.
How To Solve Sunscreen Problems In Your Pool
Depending on how much swimming you are doing or how many swimmers are using sunscreen in your pool, there are several options you can look at for solving the chemical imbalances that can occur from too much sunscreen in the water.
Make sure you have a proper filtration system for your pool. Filtration is critical. Filters must have the correct flow rate in order for them to be effective. If you don't know how to maintain and monitor your filtration system, Super Shark Pools can help as part of a regular maintenance program.
Clean your filters regularly. Cleaning your filters from dirt and grime will help preserve the water quality.
Make sure you and your guests shower before entering the pool. Not only does this remove and dirt from a swimmer's body, it helps reduce the amount of sunscreen that may wash off in the pool.
If your pool is looking cloudy, consider shocking the water with a chlorinating agent. Ensure the filter is clean and running properly as you do this.
If you swim a lot, consider using sun protective clothing instead of sunscreen.
Enzyme treatments to your water can help break down oils and ingredients that come from sunscreen lotions.
Regular Maintenance Can Keep Your Pool Clean And Clear From The Effects Of Sunscreen
If you are unsure of how to remove the oils and grime from your pool as a result of sunscreen use, call Super Shark Pools at (941) 225-3970 to schedule a maintenance appointment or contact us on our website here. We have a team of qualified pool repair experts that can handle any issues with your pool. Our customer service is second to none and we are ready to serve you. Call us today!