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 chlorine 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 of red and inflamed skin which runs the risk of becoming blisters if continuously exposed to more chlorinated water.
Be sure to keep this in mind when swimming at pools with a chlorine concentration, with Spring break and Summer coming up soon! The key to offsetting the damage that chlorinated pools can do to the skin is to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Taking a shower before exposing yourself to swimming pool water helps prevent the skin from absorbing pool chlorine. Also, be sure to rinse off as soon as you get out of the water to get any excess chlorine residue off your body and prevent dry skin.
Additionally, indoor areas tend to trap the gasses from the pool 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 pools is important.
When possible, opting to swim in saltwater pools is much better for preserving your healthy skin. Saltwater smoothes and softens skin while also being a natural exfoliator of dead skin cells. 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_