How does swimming impact your skin?

There’s nothing quite like diving into a swimming pool to get away from the sweltering summer heat. Between the cool water and the gentle movements, it is a fan favorite this time of year. However, like most things, there can be a drawback when using the pool for long periods of time, especially when it comes to your skin.

What does swimming pool water contain?

A swimming pool uses a recipe of different chemicals to keep it sanitary against bacteria and algae. The most common and well-known chemical is chlorine, which reacts with water to create hypochlorous acid. While the name sounds intimidating, this weak acid is actually a non-toxic compound that does the heavy lifting for pool cleaning.

Is chlorine bad for you?

Swimming in a pool can be relaxing, but it is another activity that needs moderation. Too much exposure to chlorine from swimming (or too much chlorine in the cleaning process) can strip away your body’s natural oils, making your skin dry and prone to itchiness. Some people can even be sensitive to pool water and wind up with contact dermatitis as a result.

How can I prepare for pool water?

This isn’t to say that you can’t enjoy your time in the pool, but rather there are some steps you can take to make it more enjoyable afterwards.

• Apply lotions and other barriers to your skin before swimming to block chlorine drying, especially those that have sunscreen for your face.
• Drink water to stay hydrated while you’re outside during a hot day.
• Shower as soon as you can once you leave the pool to wash off the chlorine and other chemicals, preferably with lukewarm water.
• After showering, apply moisturizers to your skin to retain your natural bodily oils.

Swimming in the pool might affect your skin, but the products sold at CEENTA can affect your life. Our skin care products provide restoration for anything from sun exposure (such as the HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36) to fine lines with the TNS Essential Serum. Browse through our selection of products and schedule an appointment with one of our facial plastic specialists today.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. New patients can make appointments online with our physicians in North and South Carolina. Current patients can also make appointments through myCEENTAchart with physicians they have already seen.