Whether you're taking swimming lessons or simply love taking a dip in the pool to ward off the summer heat, it's necessary to keep your skin protected from chlorine in the pool water. Chlorine is added to pool water to kill bacteria, but it is also a harsh chemical bleach that wreaks havoc on your skin.
01How Does Chlorine Water Affect Your Skin?
- Depletes Natural Oils → Strips the skin's protective barrier, leading to dryness, tightness, and irritation Accelerates
- Aging → Breaks down collagen and elastin, which may lead to fine lines and wrinkles over time Triggers Acne &
- Sensitivity → Can clog pores and worsen breakouts, especially in acne-prone skin
- Worsens Skin Conditions → May aggravate eczema, psoriasis, or other existing skin issues due to harsh chemical exposure
- Causes Itching & Redness → Frequent exposure may leave the skin itchy, red, or inflamed
02Is Chlorine Water Good for Skin?
Chlorine water has both benefits and drawbacks when it comes to skin health:
Pros:
- Chlorine helps kill harmful bacteria and microbes, which can temporarily reduce skin infections or acne-causing bacteria.
- Often used in pools and public water systems to maintain hygiene.
Cons:
- Prolonged or repeated exposure strips away natural oils, leading to dryness, flakiness, or irritation.
- Can disrupt the skin barrier, making it more prone to sensitivity, redness, or breakouts.
- May worsen conditions like eczema or dermatitis. In short: While chlorine water helps keep things clean, it's not always kind to your skin—especially with frequent exposure.
03How to Protect Skin From Chlorine Water
Prolonged exposure to chlorinated water can damage the skin tissues, rob the natural oils from the skin and lead to dry, flaky skin. It can also accelerate skin ageing and cause acne breakouts. We are not trying to scare you from stepping foot in the pool; instead, we have a few tips that will help keep your skin protected while you enjoy your swim. Instead, with the right pre and post swimming skincare routine, you can protect your skin and still make the most of your time in the pool.
1. Shower before and after you swim
The reason you see so many people standing under the shower before taking a dip is because if your skin is dry, it will quickly absorb the chlorinated water. This water will reach deeper layers and cause more damage. A quick shower will prevent the skin from absorbing a lot of chlorinated water. Don't forget to take a quick shower post swimming as well to prevent the chlorinated water from drying on your skin.
2. Apply an SPF
Sunscreen will not only protect your skin from the UVA and UVB rays while you swim, but it will also form a protective layer and prevent the water from the pool from coming in direct contact with your skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the Ponds Skin Fit Pre Work Out High Performance Sunscreen SPF50 at least 15-20 minutes before stepping into the pool for maximum protection.
3. Moisturise your skin
Exposure to chlorine and other chemicals will leave your skin feeling extremely dry; therefore, it is essential to moisturise the skin soon after taking a shower post your swimming session to lock the moisture back in. Use a body lotion with deeply nourishing and soothing ingredients such as the Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Fresh Body Lotion. Enriched with pure aloe vera extracts, this lotion will soothe and nourish your skin and keep dryness at bay.
4. Swim outdoor
If possible, avoid indoor swimming pools as they are not very well ventilated and trap the gases from the chemicals. This causes even more skin problems, therefore, pick a place that has an outdoor swimming pool.
04FAQs: Chlorine Water Effects on Skin
Here are some frequently asked questions about chorine's effect on our skin answered by the experts:
Q: Will a regular moisturiser work, or do I need something special after swimming?
A: Use moisturisers or body lotions with ingredients such as aloe vera, or hyaluronic acid. These are extra hydrating and can replenish the moisture lost because of chlorine. The Vaseline Intensive Care Aloe Fresh Body Lotion mentioned above is an excellent choice!
Q: I wear makeup to the pool. Should I be worried about chlorine affecting my skin more?
A: Yes, makeup can trap chlorine in your pores, increasing the potential for irritation. It's advisable to be makeup-free when swimming. If you must wear makeup, always use waterproof products and be sure to thoroughly clean your face after swimming.
Q: I have sensitive skin. Are there any extra precautions I should take?
A: Yes, definitely! Apply a thin layer of a natural oil such as coconut oil before your sunscreen. This can create an extra shield. Additionally, use fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturisers. If you have sensitive skin, it's crucial that you perform a patch test before using any new skincare products.
Q: Does wearing a swim cap help protect my face from chlorine?
A: A swim cap mainly protects your hair, but it can also help minimise the amount of chlorinated water that splashes onto your forehead and hairline. It's always advisable to wear one, particularly if you have sensitive skin or coloured hair.
Q: How soon after swimming should I moisturise?
A: As soon as possible! After your post-swim shower, carefully pat your skin dry and apply your moisturiser while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in the moisture.
Q: Does the PH level of the pool affect my skin?
A: Yes, pool PH level is very crucial. A pool with an improper PH level can increase the negative effects of the chlorine on the skin. A properly maintained pool will minimise negative skin reactions.
Q: Is chlorine water good for skin?
A: Typically, no, chlorine water is not good for your complexion due to its drying and irritating effects, which outweigh any potential antibacterial benefits.
Swimming is a great way to stay active and cool down, and with a few simple steps, you can keep your complexion healthy even with chlorine exposure. Don't let the fear of dry skin or acne keep you from enjoying the pool. Just make sure that you shower, protect, moisturise before and after your swim. Your complexion will be grateful, and you will be able to be stress-free while swimming!
