SwimEase Resources: How to Mitigate the Side Effects of Chlorine Exposure

Swimming is a fantastic activity for children, but frequent exposure to chlorine in pools can sometimes lead to skin irritation, dry hair, and eye sensitivity.  To help parents ensure their children stay comfortable and healthy while enjoying their lessons, we have put together some simple yet effective ways to minimize chlorine’s effects.

1. Protecting the Skin

-Apply a Barrier Before Swimming – An example of a barrier could include a thin layer of oil (such as coconut, jojoba, and apricot), a thin layer of Vaseline, or even the use of a specialized chlorine-blocking lotion before entering the pool.  These all help protect the skin from chlorine absorption. -Rinsing With Water Before & After Swimming – Rinsing with fresh water before swimming helps reduce chlorine absorption, while showering after removes residual chlorine from the skin. (Rinsing before lessons is not necessary if skin protectors, such as oil or sunscreen, have been applied)-Moisturize After Swimming – Using a fragrance-free (preferably), hydrating lotion helps restore moisture to dry skin.  Aloe Vera can also be used to help soothe irritation from the sun, Shea butter and jojoba are other great options for moisturizing skin post swimming!

2. Protect the Hair

-Wet Hair Before Entering the Pool – Just like the skin, pre-soaking hair with clean water helps prevent it from absorbing too much chlorine.

-Oiling Hair Before Entering the Pool - Wetting hair is not necessary if oil is used to help moisturize the hair.  Oiling hair can help prevent dryness if one chooses not to wear a swim cap.  Oils help create a barrier that prevents moisture from leaving hair, this will help prevent frizzy and dried out hair after exposure to chlorinated water.  

Here is an additional resource published by "Prevention.com" on the effects of oiling hair and what type of oils are good for specific hair types: https://www.prevention.com/beauty/hair/a45860977/hair-oiling-benefits/

-Use a Swim Cap – A well-fitted swim cap provides a barrier against chlorine exposure.-Use a Gentle Shampoo & Conditioner – A chlorine-removing shampoo or a mild clarifying shampoo (like those with vitamin C) can help remove chlorine buildup. Follow up with a deep conditioner to restore moisture.

3. Protect the Eyes

-Rinse Eyes with Water – After swimming, gently rinse eyes with clean, lukewarm water to remove chlorine residue.  While swimming in chlorinated water, it is important to make sure you are not excessively rubbing your eyes. -Use Lubricating Eye Drops – If eyes tend to feel dry or irritated, preservative-free artificial tears can help restore moisture.

4. Hydration & Nutrition

-Drink Plenty of Water – Staying hydrated helps the body flush out chlorine more efficiently.-Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods – Foods rich in vitamin C (oranges, strawberries) and vitamin E (almonds, spinach) can help counteract chlorine’s oxidative effects.

By following these simple steps, parents can help their children, or even themselves, enjoy swimming without discomfort while keeping their skin, hair, and eyes healthy.