Chlorine Risks in Swimming Pools
Skin Irritation is an Uncomfortable Result of High-Chlorine Water
Oct 22, 2009
Swimming pools are an ideal way to keep in shape and relax in almost any season; both outdoor and indoor pools are often treated with chlorine. However, chlorine can also pose an allergy risk for individuals who decide to swim. Chlorine is one of the most commonly used types of chemical in swimming pools, and highly chlorinated water is a factor in skin irritation problems.
Chlorine and Its Effects on Skin
The way chlorine effects an individual’s skin depends on the sensitivity of the person’s skin combined with the amount of time they are exposed to highly chlorinated water.
The main effect chlorine has on skin is to dry it out cause it to become dry and cracked, which can lead to further irritation. Prolonged exposure to chlorine can also cause the skin to develop a red, itchy rash.
Since chlorine is frequently used to treat swimming pools, the risk of developing a reaction or rash as a result of chlorine is increased during the summer months when individuals spend more time in water that has high amounts of chlorine. Fortunately, if a rash does develop from being in high-chlorine pools, it is not threatening to an individual’s health and will usually disappear in a few days if the skin is not irritated further.
Uses of Chlorine in Swimming Pools
Chlorine is a chemical used to clean water in many areas, including factories as well as swimming pools. It is a method of preventing E. coli and other harmful bacteria from living in water. Its disinfectant properties help stop viruses and disease from spreading through contact with contaminated water. Pools that contain only small or moderate amounts of the chemical pose little to no risk of skin irritation; however, highly chlorinated water combined with prolonged exposure does increase the risk
Preventing Skin Irritation from Chlorine
To prevent skin irritation that can be caused by swimming in high-chlorine pools, limit the amount of time spent in the water. After swimming, taking a shower in clean water will help to remove chlorine from the skin and using a moisturizing lotion will help repair skin that has been dried out.
Swimmers and other individuals who spend a lot of time in high-chlorine water have a higher risk of developing dry skin or an irritating skin rash. Pay close attention to the amount of time spent in water that has been treated with large amounts of chlorine to avoid developing a skin rash. (Source: DermaDoctor)
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