Protecting Your Skin, Hair, and Eyes from Chlorine in the Pool

If you're planning on swimming in the near future, chances are you're not looking forward to the effects of chlorine in the pool: the lingering chlorine odor, dry hair, and dry skin. In order to maintain a positive swimming experience, here are some tips for dealing with problems that may arise from your exposure to chlorinated water.

To deal with skin-related problems, shower without soap. Most people tend to use too much soap under normal circumstances, but it's especially important not to use it after swimming. Soap is a grease cutter, and it only robs the skin of its water-retaining oils. The more soap you use, the drier your skin and it won't get rid of the chlorine. Soap can be used on odor-generating areas of the body for cleanliness, of course, but refrain from using it on the rest of your skin. To get rid of the chlorine smell, just use more water. Stand under the shower long enough to let it wash off and you can use water as hot as you like since warmer water won't dry the skin. Following the shower, be certain to use oil or lotion for protection. For even more protection, you may want to apply some oil or lotion before you take a dive in the pool. It won't harm the pool's plumbing.

The best way to take care of your hair is to wear a bathing cap. The type of cap you wear is up to you, and it doesn't necessarily have to keep your hair dry. It should work by cutting down on the amount of chlorine that gets into your hair, not by eliminating it. After you take the cap off, you should shampoo your hair well to get rid of the chlorine aftereffects. Which brand of shampoo and whether you want to use a conditioner is up to you.

People blame the chlorine in pool water for eye irritation, but the real culprit is a poor "pH" or acid-base balance in the pool which ought to be checked regularly. To protect your eyes, it's best to wear goggles at all times unless you are just learning how to swim. If you don't experience the water without goggles when you are beginning to swim, you may panic if you're caught in a precarious situation without them later. If your eyes should get wet and are bothered by the pool water, try bathing your eyes with store-bought artificial tears or saline solutions meant for the eyes. Make certain you have a product specifically and safely made for putting in your eyes. Rinsing your eyes with tap water will also irritate them. Chlorine and a poor pH balance shouldn't interfere with the fun and exercise benefits of swimming. Take precautions and take the plunge.