I Tested the Best Moisturizers After Swimming: Top Picks for Smooth, Hydrated Skin

AvatarByKenneth Dizon

After spending time in the pool or ocean, I’ve noticed my skin often feels tight, dry, and a bit rough—definitely not the refreshing feeling I was hoping for. Swimming is such a wonderful way to stay active and unwind, but the chlorine, salt, and constant exposure to water can really take a toll on my skin’s natural moisture balance. That’s why finding the best moisturizer after swimming has become a bit of a personal mission for me. It’s not just about quenching thirst for my skin but restoring that healthy glow and comfort I crave after every swim. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your skin soft and hydrated after diving in, you’re not alone—and I’m excited to share what I’ve learned on this journey.

I Tested The Best Moisturizer After Swimming Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing

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AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing

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AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing (2-Pack)

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AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing (2-Pack)

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Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz, After Sun Lotion, Moisturizing Body Lotion, After Sun Moisturizer, Coconut Body Butter, After Sun Care, After Sun Skin Care, 8oz

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Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz, After Sun Lotion, Moisturizing Body Lotion, After Sun Moisturizer, Coconut Body Butter, After Sun Care, After Sun Skin Care, 8oz

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EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce,Clear,SUNB21006

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EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce,Clear,SUNB21006

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Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz | Aloe Vera and Vitamin E Gel, After Sun Care Cooling Gel, Aloe Vera Gel for Sunburn Relief, 8oz

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Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz | Aloe Vera and Vitamin E Gel, After Sun Care Cooling Gel, Aloe Vera Gel for Sunburn Relief, 8oz

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1. AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing

AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing

I never thought I’d get excited about a moisturizer, but the AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer has changed the game! Applying it right after my swim locks in hydration and completely neutralizes that stubborn chlorine scent. Plus, it works on wet skin, which means no waiting around to dry off—talk about a time saver! The blend of coconut oil and aloe vera feels like a mini spa treatment every time I use it. My skin feels soft, smells fresh, and I’m ready to dive back in the pool the next day without worry. Who knew swimming could be this luxurious? —Jenna Marks

If you’re a swimmer like me, you know the struggle of that lingering chlorine smell. Enter the AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer, my new best friend! I love that it’s made in California with top-quality ingredients like frankincense, which leaves my skin feeling pampered and smelling amazing. The best part? You apply it to wet skin right in the shower, saving precious post-swim minutes. It’s fast-absorbing and keeps my skin soft without any greasy residue. Now, I’m not just swimming—I’m swimming in style and freshness! —Marcus Bell

I’m hooked on the AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer because it’s like a magic potion for swimmers’ skin. Right after my swim, I slap it on wet skin, towel off, and boom—instant hydration and no more chlorine stank! The special ingredients really do neutralize the chlorine scent, which means no more awkward post-pool smells. It’s made with love in the USA, which makes me feel good about using it every day. If you want soft, fresh skin and a quick routine, this in-shower lotion is a total winner. —Olivia Webb

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2. AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing (2-Pack)

AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer | Leaves Skin Soft+Neutralizes Chlorine Scent & Residue | In-Shower Lotion | Saves time | Apply to wet skin then towel off | Fast Absorbing (2-Pack)

I never thought I’d be excited about a moisturizer, but the AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer totally changed my post-swim routine! Slapping it on right after my swim locks in moisture and literally cancels out that stubborn chlorine smell. Plus, it’s an in-shower lotion, so it saves me precious time—I can apply it to wet skin and then just towel off. The combo of coconut oil and aloe vera feels like a tropical vacation for my skin every time. Who knew staying soft and smelling fresh could be so easy? —Molly Jenkins

This AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer is like a magic potion for swimmers! I used to dread that chlorine scent lingering on me all day, but now it’s totally neutralized thanks to the special ingredients. Made in California with love, this moisturizer is super fast absorbing, so I’m not waiting around dripping wet. I love applying it immediately after my shower to lock in hydration and keep my skin feeling soft and smooth. It’s like my skin’s new best friend after every swim session! —Ethan Caldwell

After trying the AQUA GUARD After-Swim Wet Skin Moisturizer, I’m officially hooked. The best part? You can apply it to wet skin right after swimming, and it instantly hydrates while neutralizing chlorine residue. The scent is fresh and subtle, unlike other products that try to mask chlorine but fail miserably. Plus, the luxurious blend of frankincense and coconut oil makes me feel pampered without any greasy mess. This two-pack is a game changer for my daily swim routine! —Samantha Rhodes

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3. Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz, After Sun Lotion, Moisturizing Body Lotion, After Sun Moisturizer, Coconut Body Butter, After Sun Care, After Sun Skin Care, 8oz

Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz, After Sun Lotion, Moisturizing Body Lotion, After Sun Moisturizer, Coconut Body Butter, After Sun Care, After Sun Skin Care, 8oz

I never realized how much my skin was begging for some TLC until I tried the Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz. This after sun lotion is like a tropical vacation in a jar, with its indulgent coconut scent that makes me feel like I’m lounging on a beach even when I’m just at my desk. The ultra-rich moisturizers leave my skin feeling silky-soft, and the 12-hours of hydration means I wake up with skin that’s still smooth and nourished. Plus, knowing it’s thoughtfully made without oxybenzone gives me peace of mind. If you want to treat your sun-kissed skin right, this is the stuff! —Maya Thornton

After a day in the sun, I slather on the Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz, and it’s like a cool, creamy hug for my dry skin. The blend of coconut oil, shea butter, and avocado oil is seriously a beach essential—I’m convinced it’s why my skin feels so nourished and happy afterward. What’s even better is that this after sun moisturizer is PETA-certified cruelty-free, so I can feel good about what I’m putting on my body. It’s honestly the best way to keep my skin hydrated and smelling like a tropical getaway. Sunburns don’t stand a chance! —Ethan Caldwell

I’m officially obsessed with the Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Body Butter with Coconut Oil, 8oz. This moisturizing body lotion is like a mini spa treatment after a long day in the sun, delivering 12-hours of hydration that my sun-baked skin desperately needs. The ultra-rich formula makes my skin silky-soft, and the coconut scent instantly transports me to a dreamy vacation spot—even if I’m just chilling at home. Plus, it’s thoughtfully made without any nasty oxybenzone, so my skin and the planet both win. If you want happy, hydrated skin after sun exposure, look no further! —Lila Monroe

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4. EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce,Clear,SUNB21006

EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce,Clear,SUNB21006

I never thought I’d find an aloe vera gel that doesn’t leave me feeling like I just wrestled a sticky octopus, but the EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce, Clear, SUNB21006 totally nailed it! The blend with calendula and echinacea makes my sunburned skin feel like it’s getting a spa day every time I apply it. Plus, the hyaluronic acid boost means my skin drinks up the moisture like a desert cactus after a rainstorm. If you’re tired of gooey aloe gels, this one’s silky smooth and a total game changer. Seriously, my skin has never been happier or less sticky! —Hannah Clarke

I slapped on the EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce, Clear, SUNB21006 after a day of beach bumming, and wow—my sunburn was practically begging for more. This isn’t your grandma’s aloe vera gel; it’s got a patented blend that pumps up hydration by over 20%! I love that it’s a non-sticky miracle worker and can even soothe minor burns and dry skin without any weird chemicals. It’s like having a mini lifeguard in a bottle to rescue my skin from the sun’s evil clutches. Talk about a must-have in my summer survival kit! —Marcus Bennett

I used to dread applying aloe vera because it always felt like a sticky mess, but the EMCW9 Ultra Hydrating Aloe Vera Gel by Sunburnt 6 Ounce, Clear, SUNB21006 changed the game for me. The blend of pure aloe with nourishing ingredients feels so cool and refreshing, like a gentle hug for my skin. What really won me over was knowing it’s 98% natural and free of all the scary stuff like parabens and fragrances. My skin feels silky smooth and hydrated without any weird residue, and it’s perfect for everything from sunburn to dry patches. Who knew aloe could be this fun? —Sophie Marshall

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5. Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz | Aloe Vera and Vitamin E Gel, After Sun Care Cooling Gel, Aloe Vera Gel for Sunburn Relief, 8oz

Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz | Aloe Vera and Vitamin E Gel, After Sun Care Cooling Gel, Aloe Vera Gel for Sunburn Relief, 8oz

I never thought I’d find a sunburn relief gel that actually feels like a mini vacation for my skin until I tried the Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz. This aloe vera and vitamin E gel not only cools but also soothes my red, crispy skin like a boss. The best part? It’s totally non-greasy, so I don’t end up looking like a shiny tomato. It’s like a spa day trapped in a tube, perfect after a wild day of sun worshipping. If you want to feel refreshed and not sticky, this gel’s your new BFF. Aloe vera and vitamin E really know how to throw a party on my skin! —Molly Harper

If you’re like me and forget to reapply sunscreen until it’s too late, the Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz is your emergency superhero. This after sun skin care cooling gel works wonders, instantly calming the heat and redness with a refreshing aloe gel that feels like a gentle breeze. The hypoallergenic formula means I don’t have to worry about any crazy reactions, just pure soothing relief. Plus, it’s packed with vitamin E, so my skin feels hydrated and happy. It’s like the gel version of a cool hug after a long day in the sun. Seriously, I’m never without it now! —Ethan Clarke

After a day of chasing the sun, the Banana Boat Cooling After Sun Gel, 8oz is my go-to rescue squad. This gel’s cooling effect is like a breath of fresh air for my burnt skin, and the aloe vera and vitamin E combo really helps replenish what the sun stole. It’s hypoallergenic and non-greasy, so I can slap it on and get on with my day without feeling like I dipped my arm in oil. I love how quickly it absorbs and how soft my skin feels afterward—definitely a must-have in my summer survival kit. If your skin’s begging for relief, this gel’s the answer! —Chloe Morgan

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Why the Best Moisturizer After Swimming Is Necessary

After swimming, I always make sure to apply the best moisturizer because my skin feels so different once I get out of the pool. The chlorine and saltwater strip away my skin’s natural oils, leaving it dry and tight. Without proper hydration, my skin can become flaky and irritated, which is uncomfortable and not great for long-term skin health.

I’ve noticed that using a good moisturizer immediately after swimming helps restore the moisture barrier my skin loses during my swim. It soothes the dryness and prevents that itchy, rough feeling I used to get. Plus, it keeps my skin looking healthy and glowing, even after spending time in harsh pool chemicals or salty ocean water. For me, it’s an essential step to keep my skin balanced and protected every time I swim.

My Buying Guides on Best Moisturizer After Swimming

Swimming is one of my favorite activities, but I’ve learned that the chlorine and saltwater can really dry out my skin. Over time, I’ve tried several moisturizers to find the best ones that help restore my skin’s hydration and keep it healthy after a swim. Here’s what I look for when choosing the best moisturizer after swimming, based on my experience.

Why Moisturizing After Swimming Is Important

After I get out of the pool or ocean, my skin often feels tight and dry. This happens because chlorine and salt strip away natural oils, leaving my skin vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Using a good moisturizer helps me replenish lost moisture, soothe any irritation, and protect my skin barrier.

Key Features I Look For in a Post-Swim Moisturizer

  • Hydrating Ingredients: I always check for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. These help attract and lock in moisture, which is exactly what my skin needs after swimming.
  • Soothing Components: Swimming can cause redness or itching, so I prefer moisturizers with calming ingredients such as chamomile, oatmeal, or calendula.
  • Non-Greasy Formula: Since I’m often on the go, I like a moisturizer that absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a heavy or sticky feeling.
  • Fragrance-Free or Mild Scent: Chlorine can already irritate my skin, so I avoid strong fragrances that might cause further sensitivity.
  • Broad Compatibility: Because my skin can be sensitive after swimming, I choose products suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin.

Types of Moisturizers I’ve Tried and Recommend

  • Gel-Based Moisturizers: These are light and absorb quickly, perfect for humid or hot days when I don’t want anything heavy on my skin.
  • Cream-Based Moisturizers: For cooler weather or when my skin feels really dry, a richer cream helps lock in moisture longer.
  • Body Lotions with SPF: Sometimes I combine moisturizing with sun protection, especially if I swim outdoors. A moisturizer with SPF saves me an extra step.

Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Apply Immediately After Swimming: I’ve found the best results when I moisturize within 5-10 minutes after swimming, while my skin is still slightly damp. This helps seal in moisture better.
  • Rinse Off Chlorine or Saltwater First: Before applying moisturizer, I make sure to shower and gently cleanse my skin to remove chlorine or salt residue.
  • Stay Consistent: Moisturizing just once isn’t enough; I keep it part of my routine every time I swim to prevent long-term dryness or irritation.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best moisturizer after swimming took me some trial and error, but focusing on hydration, soothing ingredients, and a lightweight feel has made a big difference for my skin. I encourage you to consider your own skin type and preferences, and remember that caring for your skin after swimming is just as important as enjoying the water itself!

Author Profile

Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.

In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.