For pool days, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends a swim cap or pre-swim leave-in conditioner, then rinsing hair promptly and washing with swimmer's shampoo followed by deep conditioner. For skin, its guidance is to shower after swimming with fresh water and a mild cleanser or body wash made for swimmers.
Choose care products around the routine you will follow: a cap or pre-swim hair product, a prompt rinse, and a shampoo and conditioner you tolerate. A product label that says “swim” is a selection cue, not a reason to skip rinsing or follow-up care.
Pack a simple routine
| When | Hair | Skin |
|---|---|---|
| Before the swim | Use a swim cap, or consider oil or leave-in conditioner as the AAD describes | Follow the facility’s shower and pool hygiene instructions |
| Right after | Rinse promptly with fresh water | Shower with fresh water |
| At home or in the locker room | Use a swimmer’s shampoo and follow with deep conditioner; select for your hair and scalp | Use a mild cleanser or body wash made for swimmers, as the AAD recommends |
| Drying and storage | Gently blot or wrap hair rather than rubbing it hard; follow product labels | Rinse swimwear and let it dry according to its care label |
The AAD’s swim-season guidance recommends a cap or pre-swim oil/leave-in conditioner, followed by prompt rinsing, swimmer’s shampoo and deep conditioner. It also recommends an immediate shower with clean water and a mild cleanser or body wash made for swimmers. These are routine and product-selection recommendations, not a promise that a specific bottle prevents irritation.
Choose products by routine and fit
If you want less hair in your face, compare silicone, latex and fabric caps; caps vary in fit, comfort and how much water passes through. If you swim frequently, the polyester and nylon-spandex suit guide covers garment fabric durability, while this page covers personal-care steps.
Put shampoo, conditioner and body wash in a leak-resistant pouch. The swim bags and deck parkas guide explains wet/dry storage. For a first pool routine, the adult beginner kit keeps the equipment list short.
Browse deck gear and chlorine care.
Sources
Common questions
What should I use on my hair after swimming in a pool?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends rinsing hair promptly, washing with a specially formulated swimmer's shampoo and following with a deep conditioner. Choose products that suit your hair and scalp.
Should I wet my hair before swimming?
The AAD highlights a swim cap or a small amount of oil or leave-in conditioner before entering the pool. Follow each product's instructions and use a cap if your pool requires one.
What should I use on my skin after pool swimming?
The AAD recommends showering with fresh, clean water and a mild cleanser or body wash made for swimmers. Rinse thoroughly and follow the product label.
Does a swim cap keep hair dry?
A cap helps contain hair, but fit and material affect how much water reaches it. The AAD describes a cap as one way to protect hair, alongside rinsing and post-swim washing.