There’s nothing like a cool dip in the pool on a hot day—until the chlorine kicks in. If you've ever emerged from a swim with itchy skin , red eyes, or that strange dry feeling all over your body, you’re not alone. Chlorine is great for keeping pools clean, but let’s be honest: it’s not exactly gentle.
After years of swimming and dealing with the aftermath (read: flaky skin and crunchy hair), I’ve picked up some cheap and easy tricks that actually work. So here are 4 simple ways to protect yourself from the chlorine in your pool—no fancy spa treatments required.
1. Shower Before You Swim (Yep, Before!)
Wet skin = less chlorine absorption
It sounds counterintuitive, but getting wet before diving in helps. When your skin and hair are already saturated with clean water, they’re less likely to absorb as much chlorinated pool water.
Just hop in the shower and rinse off for 30 seconds—this little step can make a big difference.
Bonus tip: Rinse again right after swimming too. It helps get chlorine off your skin ASAP.
2. Use Coconut Oil or a Barrier Cream
Your skin’s natural shield
A thin layer of coconut oil, petroleum jelly, or a specialized pre-swim lotion acts like armor for your skin. It creates a barrier that limits chlorine from soaking into your pores.
It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive—just rub a small amount on your arms, legs, and face before heading into the pool.
Pro tip: This trick also helps keep your skin from drying out!
3. Wear a Swim Cap and Goggles
Your hair is super absorbent (like a sponge), and chlorine loves to strip it dry. A swim cap might not be the most glamorous look, but it seriously helps.
And don’t skip the goggles—chlorine in your eyes = burning, irritation, and sometimes blurred vision. Plus, no one wants to look like they just watched a sad movie after swimming.
4. DIY Post-Swim Spray
Neutralize the chlorine naturally
Here’s a quick and cheap after-swim rinse you can make at home:
1 cup of water
1 tablespoon of baking soda
A few drops of vitamin E or aloe vera (optional)
Spray it on your skin after swimming and rinse off. Baking soda helps neutralize the chlorine’s effects and soothes irritated skin. You can even make a version for your hair using apple cider vinegar diluted with water.
Cost? Maybe a dollar.
Results? Surprisingly good.
You don’t need a full spa kit or expensive products to protect yourself from the chlorine in your pool. A little prep and a few clever hacks go a long way. These are my go-to tricks—and they’ve saved me (and my skin) more times than I can count.
