Why do I have to shower before a swim?

Q: I love to swim, but I hate taking a shower prior to getting in the pool. Why are showers required? - J.B., Omaha, NE

A: Taking a shower before swimming helps remove body oils, lotions, deodorant, and hair chemicals from the body. These products can pollute the pool water and require additional maintenance to keep the pool clean and hygienic.

A pre-swim shower can benefit your skin and hair, too. Skin and hair are like sponges. If they are fully hydrated, they cannot absorb much water; however, if they are dry, large amounts of water will be absorbed into the cells. Showering before climbing into the pool assures hair and skin will not be able to absorb as much of the pool water and the potentially drying chemicals it contains. For your health and the health of everyone in the pool, please take a full body shower before swimming.