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Tres Keikis magical representation of chlorine and the harmful effects on skin health

What is pool water doing to your skin health!?!

Posted on Jun 04, 2023 By Dr. Chantelle Davidson, Pharm. D

If you love spending time at the pool, you may want to think twice before jumping in. Tres Keikis Skin Health will tell you know to combat these potential downsides of water fun.

While chlorinated pool water can help keep the water clean and free of harmful bacteria, it can have negative effects on your skin barrier.

Whimsical children swimming underwater in a chlorinated pool. Tres Keikis skin health blog

One of the primary ways that chlorinated pool water can damage the skin barrier is by disrupting its natural balance of oils and moisture. Chlorine is a strong chemical that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and dehydrated. This can make the skin more vulnerable to environmental factors like sun exposure and pollution, as well as making it more prone to developing wrinkles and fine lines.

In addition to drying out the skin, chlorinated pool water can also cause irritation and inflammation. Chlorine is a strong irritant that can cause redness, itching, and even rashes on sensitive skin. This can be particularly problematic for people with pre-existing skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea, as it can exacerbate their symptoms.

So, what can you do to protect your skin barrier while enjoying a swim in the pool? Here are a few tips:

Shower before and after swimming: Taking a quick shower before and after swimming can help to rinse away any excess chlorine and prevent it from drying out your skin.
Apply a barrier cream: Using a barrier cream or lotion before swimming can help to protect your skin from the harmful effects of chlorine.
Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help to counteract the dehydrating effects of chlorinated pool water and keep your skin moisturized.
Consider alternative pool treatments: If you're concerned about the negative effects of chlorine on your skin, consider swimming in pools that use alternative treatments like saltwater.

While swimming in chlorinated pools can be a fun and refreshing way to beat the heat, it's important to be aware of the potential negative effects on your skin barrier. By taking the proper precautions and protecting your skin, you can still enjoy a swim without compromising your skin health.

Tres Keikis whimsical imagination of harmful chlorine used in swimming pools. Skin health blog