If your skin still smells like chlorine hours after leaving the pool, you're not imagining it. Chlorine binds to oils and proteins on your skin, and it can take real work to get it out. Below, I'll explain why it happens and the six most effective ways to get rid of the smell fast.
As both a dermatologist and fellow swimmer, here's what works:
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Shower Immediately
After your swim, jump into the shower as soon as possible. Rinsing off immediately helps remove chlorine before it fully binds to your skin. For your face, use a pH-balanced cleanser designed to remove chlorine, like our Dermasport Gentle Facial Cleanser. Specifically formulated for swimmers, it gently cleanses while neutralizing harsh pool chemicals without stripping your skin’s natural moisture.
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Use a Swim-Specific Shampoo and Conditioner
Just like your skin, your hair absorbs chlorine. That’s why using swim-specific hair products is key. Opt for a chlorine-removing shampoo and conditioner, such as TRISWIM’s dual-action Chlorine Removal Shampoo and Repairing Conditioner. These products not only smell amazing but also help prevent dryness and damage, keeping your hair healthy despite frequent exposure to chlorine.
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Stay Hydrated and Hydrate Your Skin
Drinking plenty of water after swimming helps flush chlorine from your system, reducing its lingering effects on your skin and breath. Staying hydrated is essential for overall skin health, especially for swimmers exposed to chlorine which can dry out your skin, making it more vulnerable to irritation. Use a daily moisturizer for dry skin to help your skin recover before your next swim.
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Wash Your Swim Gear
Chlorine doesn’t just cling to your skin—it sticks to your swim gear too. Rinse your swimsuit, goggles, and other gear in fresh water immediately after use. You can also wash them with a mild detergent to ensure all traces of chlorine are removed, keeping your gear in great condition.
Bonus Secrets for Preventing the Chlorine Smell
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Wet Your Hair Before Diving In
Take a few seconds to wet your hair in the shower before jumping in the pool. Once your hair is saturated with clean water, it absorbs less chlorinated water, helping reduce the chlorine smell later on.
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Use a Sunscreen with a Hydrophobic Barrier
Before swimming, apply a water-resistant and sweat-resistant sunscreen like Dermasport’s SPF 50 Facial Sunscreen. It creates a hydrophobic barrier that helps repel chlorine and other pool chemicals. This water-resistant formula not only protects your skin from the sun but also shields it from irritants like chlorine and bromine.
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can effectively eliminate the chlorine smell and keep your skin and hair feeling clean, fresh, and moisturized. Make Dermasport Gentle Facial Cleanser a part of your post-swim skincare regimen for healthier skin. Whether you're training for a competition or enjoying a recreational swim, your skin deserves the best care.
