Why Swimming Affects Your Skin
Chlorinated pool water and saltwater each present unique challenges for skin health. Chlorine is a strong disinfectant used to kill bacteria in pools, but it also strips the skin of sebum, your body’s natural protective oil. Over time, this can weaken your skin barrier, leading to dryness, itching, and increased sensitivity.
Saltwater, on the other hand, can be mildly antimicrobial but also extremely dehydrating due to its high salinity. When the water evaporates from your skin, it leaves salt behind, which can further dry and irritate the surface. Add sun exposure, wind, and sweat to the equation, and summer swimming becomes a full-on stress test for your skin.
What Happens to the Skin Barrier?
Your skin barrier, the outermost layer of the epidermis, is your body’s first line of defense against environmental irritants and water loss. When chlorine or saltwater disrupts this barrier, it can result in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), increased sensitivity or redness, flare-ups of chronic conditions like eczema or psoriasis, and a greater susceptibility to sun damage and rashes. That’s why it’s so important to support and strengthen your skin barrier with the right skincare routine before and after swimming.
Before You Swim: Strengthen & Shield
A strong defense is the best offense when it comes to skincare.
1. Apply a Barrier Cream or Rich Moisturizer
Before entering the water, apply a lightweight but emollient-rich moisturizer to create a semi-occlusive shield on your skin. This reduces direct contact with chlorine or salt.
Pro tip: Look for moisturizers containing ceramides, dimethicone, squalane, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help prevent water loss and soothe irritated skin. We love CeraVe lotion!
2. Choose a Water-Resistant SPF
Always apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher 15–30 minutes before swimming. Reapply every 2 hours or immediately after exiting the water.
Columbia Skin Clinic recommendations:
- EltaMD UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+
- EltaMD UV Clear (Tinted or Untinted) SPF 46
- ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+
Find all of our sunscreen recommendations here. These sunscreens are dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin.
3. Rinse Off First
Rinsing your body with fresh water before entering a pool or ocean can reduce how much chlorine or salt is absorbed. Think of it as saturating a sponge; if your skin is already hydrated, it absorbs less irritants.
While You Swim: Be Smart & Strategic
1. Limit Time in the Water
If possible, swim in 30–60 minute intervals. Prolonged exposure increases the drying effect of chlorine and salt.
2. Avoid Shaving Right Before Swimming
Freshly shaved skin is more vulnerable to stinging and irritation. Shave the night before, not right before.
3. Use Swim Caps or Protective Clothing
For those with scalp sensitivity or colored hair, a swim cap helps reduce chlorine exposure. Rash guards or UV-protective shirts are great for extended sun and water exposure.
After You Swim: Rinse, Rehydrate, Restore
What you do after swimming is just as important as what you do before.
1. Rinse Immediately
The longer chlorine or salt sits on your skin, the more damage it can do. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water as soon as you exit the water.
2. Use a Gentle Cleanser
Skip harsh soaps and reach for a sulfate-free, fragrance-free cleanser. These help rebalance your skin’s pH without stripping away essential oils. For a gentle cleanser, we love Replenix Gentle Antioxidant Soothing Cleanser and Zo Hydrating Cleanser.
3. Reapply Moisture Within Minutes
Apply a rich moisturizer while your skin is still damp. This helps seal in hydration and repair the skin barrier. Our go-to is ZO Recovery Crème.
4. Treat Irritated Skin Promptly
If you notice redness, rashes, or tightness, apply a calming product with colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, or niacinamide. We recommend ZO Soothing Hydro Mist. For severe irritation, a prescription cream may be needed, Columbia Skin Clinic is here to help.
Special Considerations for Sensitive Skin
Eczema: Chlorine can worsen eczema symptoms, but saltwater may temporarily soothe flare-ups. Always moisturize before and after swimming and avoid hot showers.
Rosacea: Heat, sun, and salt can trigger redness and flushing. Use mineral-based sunscreens and avoid scrubs or chemical exfoliants post-swim.
Acne-Prone Skin: Choose non-comedogenic moisturizers and rinse immediately after swimming. If you wear water-resistant SPF, cleanse thoroughly to remove buildup.
Don’t Forget the Scalp, Lips, and Eyes
- Scalp: Chlorine dries the scalp and can worsen dandruff or irritation. Use a clarifying shampoo 1–2x/week.
- Lips: Use SPF lip balm before and after swimming to prevent sunburn.
- Eyes: Rinse eyes with fresh water after swimming. Use preservative-free drops if they feel dry or itchy.
Enjoy the Water Without the Worry
Swimming is a healthy, joyful part of summer in the Midlands, from pool parties to beach vacations. But keeping your skin healthy requires more than sunscreen. With the right steps before and after your swim, you can prevent dryness, irritation, and long-term damage.
Whether you need personalized product recommendations, help managing flare-ups, or a skincare checkup, Columbia Skin Clinic is here for you.
📍 Visit any of our four Midlands locations
📞 Call 803-779-7316 to book an appointment
🌐 Or visit columbiaskinclinic.com to learn more
