How to Fight the Effects of Chlorine on Skin

Summer is one of the most exciting seasons of the year, full of family vacations and outdoor adventures. Most people enjoy beating the heat by taking a dip in the pool. Unfortunately, weekly or daily exposure to chlorine can dry out and damage skin. At Harley Institute, we enjoy helping our Atlanta, Georgia area clients find innovative ways to reverse skin damage and signs of aging without undergoing the risks and discomfort of conventional cosmetic surgery. Are you concerned that over exposure to chlorine has left your skin feeling unhealthy? Here are some tips on how you can reduce the amount of harm and what you can do to heal damage after it’s occurred.

The Harmful Effects of Long Term Exposure to Chlorine on the Skin

Chlorine does an excellent job of treating bacteria and algae growth in swimming pools. However, it can also wreak havoc on delicate skin tissue. Frequent exposure to the chemical can strip your hair and skin of its natural oils and moisture, causing skin to become cracked, itchy, red, dry and flaky afterwards. But no one wants to be the party spoiler sitting on the sidelines while everyone else has a good time. If you’re tired of staying on the lounge chair and want to splash around without sacrificing your skin, there are ways to prevent excessive damage. 

Preparing Ahead of Time

Coat your hair in oil based leave in conditioner before diving in, your hair will be less likely to absorb the chlorine. Unfortunately, moisturizing your skin before swimming is a bad idea, as it could make your sunscreen less effective. Try to find a sunscreen that’s water resistant and has moisturizing ingredients. Be sure to leave the sunscreen on your skin for a full 15 minutes before getting in the water. 

Caring for Skin After Swimming

When you get out of the pool, rinse off immediately. If you’re at the gym or a public pool, hit the showers right away. If you’re at home or hanging out with friends and family, take the time to use an outdoor shower or ask to use the bathroom for a fast rinse off. When you’re finished washing the chlorinated water away, apply a high-quality hydrating moisturizer.

Professional Treatments to Heal Skin Damage 

If you’ve already experienced skin damage due to swimming in chlorine water, exposure to excessive sunlight or other summer related activities, then you might need a little extra tender love and care. If that’s the case, there are modern techniques available to treat and heal dry skin, sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin and other common problems without the need for surgery or down time. 

Looking for Quality Skin Care Treatments in Atlanta, Georgia? 

Are you interested in professional skin care treatments in the Atlanta, GA area? Then call or visit the Harley Institute today. Dr. Harley and her team of skin care specialists are ready to help you reverse signs of aging and skin damage. We offer a wide range of innovative, proven therapies like microdermabrasion, facials, chemical peels, PRP treatments, Ultherapy, Laser Genesis, ThermiVa treatments, Lipo Contouring, injectable fillers and more. Contact our office today to learn more about our non-invasive treatments or to schedule your initial consultation.