Swimming is a popular activity, but for people managing eczema (atopic dermatitis), the thought of diving into a pool often comes with concern. Eczema is a chronic skin condition defined by a compromised skin barrier, making the skin sensitive to irritants and prone to dryness and inflammation. The dilemma is whether swimming in standard chlorinated water will trigger a flare-up or if the water contact offers any benefit. The effect depends heavily on the pool’s chemistry and the protective measures taken by the swimmer.
Understanding the Impact of Pool Chemicals on Eczema
Standard pool water affects eczematous skin primarily by stripping away its existing, fragile protective layer. Chlorine, the primary disinfectant used in pools, acts as a solvent that dissolves the natural oils (sebum) on the skin’s surface. This loss of sebum increases transepidermal water loss, exacerbating the dryness and itching associated with atopic dermatitis.
Another source of irritation is the difference between the pool’s pH and the skin’s natural acidity. Healthy skin maintains an acidic mantle (pH 4.1 to 5.8) necessary for barrier function. Pool water is typically maintained at a slightly alkaline pH of 7.2 to 7.4 to ensure chlorine efficacy. This alkaline environment can disrupt the skin’s acidic mantle, impairing the skin barrier and increasing sensitivity.
Beyond chlorine, compounds known as chloramines are formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter like sweat and skin cells. These disinfection byproducts are particularly irritating and are responsible for the strong chemical odor often associated with pools. While chlorine’s antiseptic quality may temporarily reduce the bacterial load of Staphylococcus aureus on the skin, the overall drying and irritating effects often outweigh this positive unless proper pre- and post-swim care is followed.
Essential Skin Protection Protocol for Swimmers
Minimizing the negative effects of pool chemicals requires a systematic, two-part routine focused on barrier protection and immediate rehydration. The strategy begins before entering the water with a pre-swim application of a protective layer. Applying a thick, occlusive barrier cream or ointment, such as petroleum jelly or a heavy emollient, helps create a physical seal. This protective layer reduces direct contact between the skin and the chlorinated water, limiting the amount of chlorine that can penetrate and strip the skin’s natural oils.
The second, equally important step is the immediate post-swim care routine. As soon as possible after exiting the pool, the skin must be thoroughly rinsed with cool or lukewarm fresh water. This immediate rinsing is designed to wash away all residual chlorine and chloramines before they can continue to irritate the skin. It is important to use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser, avoiding harsh soaps that can further dry the skin and disrupt the pH balance.
Following the rinse, the “soak and seal” method should be employed to lock in hydration. The skin should be gently patted mostly dry with a soft towel, leaving a slight dampness. Within three minutes of exiting the shower, a generous amount of moisturizer or prescribed topical medication should be applied to the damp skin. This rapid application is essential because it traps the water absorbed during the rinse, preventing the skin from drying out further as the water evaporates. Limiting the duration of the swim and avoiding pool exposure during active, weeping flare-ups are additional measures that can reduce the risk of irritation.
Alternative Aquatic Environments and Eczema
Swimmers with eczema often seek out aquatic environments other than standard chlorinated pools, as these alternatives can sometimes be less irritating.
Saltwater Pools
Saltwater pools, which use a salt chlorine generator, are a common alternative. Although these pools still contain chlorine, it is often generated at a lower, more consistent level, and many individuals with eczema find the water gentler on their skin compared to traditionally chlorinated pools. The same rigorous pre- and post-swim care remains necessary to prevent dryness, as chlorine is still present.
Ocean Water
Ocean water presents a different scenario, as the high concentration of minerals, particularly magnesium, can sometimes offer a soothing effect and may even help improve skin barrier function for some individuals. However, the high salinity can also be extremely drying. The water may cause a painful stinging sensation if the skin has open cuts or is severely cracked. Swimmers must be sure to rinse and moisturize immediately after leaving the ocean to counter the dehydrating effects of the salt.
Freshwater Bodies
Freshwater bodies like lakes and rivers introduce the risk of biological contaminants, including bacteria, fungi, and algae, which are not present in properly sanitized pools. These untreated natural waters can carry their own set of irritants that may also trigger a flare-up or infection, making the experience unpredictable for sensitive skin. Regardless of the environment—chlorinated, saltwater, or natural—the primary rule for all swimmers with eczema is to maintain the barrier protection and rehydration routine described previously to mitigate the drying and irritating effects of any water type.