Because chlorine is a natural irritant, it strips the skin of its natural oils that keep it moisturized and healthy. Too much exposure to chlorine dries out the skin and causes irritation and itchiness. Continuous exposure over several years can result in premature aging and can affect the skin's health tremendously. It is common for people to get patches or red and inflamed skin which run the risk of becoming blisters if continuously exposed to more chlorine.
Be sure to keep this in mind when swimming with Spring break and Summer coming up soon! The key to offsetting the damage that chlorine can do to the skin is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Taking a shower before going to swim helps prevent the skin from absorbing the chlorinated water. Also be sure to rinse off as soon as you get out of the water to get any excess chlorine off your body and prevent drying of the skin.
Additionally, indoor swimming pools tend to trap the gasses from the chemicals being that they aren't ventilated. This can result in even more skin problems, so choosing an outdoor swimming pool, or limiting your time using indoor swimming pools is important. When possible, opting to swim in saltwater pools is much better for your skin health. Saltwater smoothes and softens skin while also being a natural exfoliator. It also has been found to promote natural healing, on a skin level as well as in bones and muscles.
Thank you for reading!
This article of the Skinsider Scoop was graciously written by Licensed Esthetician, Taylor Gasbarro, and edited by the Clean Skin Club team. If you're interested in more from Taylor, please shoot us an email, and follow her Instagram - @skinbytaylor_