Chlorine and swimming: Why does your skin suffer in the pool?
Swimming in a pool is synonymous with relaxation and exercise, but did you know that chlorinated water can be your skin's worst enemy? Irritation, dryness, itching... The effects of chlorine are very real and often underestimated. Find out how to recognize skin damage caused by swimming pools and learn the right habits to effectively protect your skin.
Swimming pools and skin: an aggressive chemical interaction
Why is chlorine used?
Swimming pool water treatment involves adding disinfectants such as chlorine or calcium hypochlorite. Their role is to prevent the proliferation of bacteria, algae, and fungi.
The formation of irritating byproducts
When chlorine comes into contact with organic matter (sweat, urine, dead skin, saliva, cosmetics), it generates chloramines. These chemical compounds are responsible for skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, as well as the characteristic «chlorine» smell of swimming pools.
Air saturated with volatile substances
At high concentrations, particularly above 0.5 mg/m³ of chloramines in the air, symptoms of irritation may appear. The National Health Safety Agency recommends a maximum value of 0.3 mg/m³ in aquatic facilities.
The effects of chlorine on the skin: what you need to know
Alteration of the skin barrier
Chlorine and its derivatives attack the stratum corneum of the skin, disrupting its natural moisture balance and promoting water loss. As a result, the skin becomes dry, rough, and prone to tightness and itching.
Symptoms vary depending on exposure
- Occasional swimming Dry skin, erythema, contact urticaria, allergic dermatitis.
- Frequent exposure (water sports, lifeguards) : Severe xerosis (extremely dry skin linked to a deterioration of the hydrolipidic film), aggravated eczema, warts, fungal infections caused by moisture.
How to protect your skin before entering the pool
Preparing effectively before swimming
- Mandatory shower Rinsing thoroughly with soap before entering the pool reduces the amount of organic matter that will react with the chlorine.
- Avoid cosmetics Remove your makeup and avoid using creams or oils on your body, as these promote the formation of chloramines.
- Strict hygiene : It is essential to use the footbaths and restrooms before swimming in order to limit organic pollution of the water.
After swimming: restore the skin barrier
Rinse quickly and thoroughly.
After getting out of the water, it is crucial to shower with clean water to remove all chlorine residue from the skin and hair.
Adopt a suitable skincare routine
- Moisturizing shower gel or shower oil Use a mild, pH-neutral cleanser to maintain the skin's balance.
- Intensive hydration Apply a lipid-rich moisturizer generously (shea butter, plum oil, squalane) to restore the skin's protective film.
- Specific facial treatment : Choose moisturizing products containinghyaluronic acid and soothing extracts such as chamomile.
Bonus tip: Treat your skin to a weekly repair treatment.
A hydrating mask to boost regeneration
Once or twice a week, apply a mask rich in natural hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and tremella extracts. These moisturizing ingredients strengthen the skin barrier's impermeability and provide immediate relief.
