Just started learning to swim ...

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Does it wreck your hair and skin?

Firstly congratulations. It's a great thing to learn.

Secondly - yes. It is worth buying the Swim & Gym type shampoos for immediate use after a lesson. And you probably want to buy a good body lotion which will prevent your skin from drying out.

I've been learning to swim for the last 6 months or so.I have found that it dries out my hair quite a bit. I use conditioner religiously and a leave in one after swimming. I also wear a swimming cap.

I use swim and gym shampoo from boots - I find it really good and it's often on offer too.

Definitely use swim and gym shampoo, and lots of conditioner. Skin wise, I find it's ok but I go to a pool that isn't highly chlorinated.

I've never really had any problems, I think it's more of an issue if you have coloured or permanently straightened hair. My skin is quite sensitive and sometimes looks a bit red/blotchy in places when I get out of the pool, but it calms down soon enough. I just rinse thoroughly in the shower afterwards, haven't used any special shampoos or lotions.

Thanks for the tips off to boots.

You've got to wear a cap. Before I swim I comb a bit of almond oil through my hair, then tie it back and put on the cap. Thorough shampoo and condition afterwards. Lashings of any cheap body lotion IMO, but my fave is Neals Yard Rose Cream - thick and delicious.

Got the Boots swim stuff do I use it only after swimming or all the time?

just after swimming. It's formulation is designed to wash the chlorine from your hair more effectively after swimming.

Always shower first. Wet hair doesn't absorb as much chlorine.

And remember the make up wipes!

Make up .... new concept on moi : ) thanks for the tips.