It is during swimming that your body comes in contact with chlorine. Chlorine is a commonly used disinfectant in swimming pools that effectively kills harmful bacteria and other microorganisms.

However, prolonged exposure to chlorinated water can adversely affect the skin. After swimming, your skin can feel dry and itchy. Chlorine can also strip the skin of its natural oils and erode your skin's natural protective barrier.

Without this barrier, your pores open, and your skin becomes more vulnerable to the effects of chlorine. When the barrier is broken, the dermal layer produces sebum in large amounts. It can also deprive your skin of moisture. If you enjoy swimming for long hours, are involved in the sport daily, or are a competitive swimmer, knowing the harmful effects of chlorine on your skin and ways to protect your skin from chlorine is crucial.

Damage to the skin

Leaving chlorine and other swimming pool chemicals on your skin after you swim is a bad idea. They can dry out your skin, removing its natural protective oils., especially if you sleep with chlorine on your body.

This can irritate it and leave it vulnerable to infections. Some of the effects of chlorine on the skin include dryness and itching, eczema flare-ups, acne, discolouration, and premature ageing.

Besides, chlorine can cause a chlorine rash or folliculitis. Some people may develop rashes on their skin after swimming in a chlorinated pool. An allergic reaction to chlorine causes it. Symptoms include red, itchy, and raised bumps on the skin.

Another common skin problem after swimming in a chlorinated pool is the appearance of white spots on the skin. These spots are caused by the depletion of melanin, the pigment that gives colour to our skin. Chlorine can bleach melanin, leading to the appearance of white spots.

Damage to the hair

Chlorine can also damage your hair, removing its natural oils and drying it out. This can cause your hair to break and develop split ends. Wash your hair with shampoo to remove the chlorine. Then consider adding some conditioner to help protect your hair from damage.

Closing thoughts

Proper swimming pool hygiene is critical to protect your health. It would help if you showered with soap before and after swimming. When showering after swimming, use an anti-chlorine soap to remove chlorine from your skin. Remember, chlorine is good for the swimming pool as it is used to disinfect it, but not ideal for your skin and hair.