In the Israeli summer, it is hard to find someone who does not spend hours at the sea or the pool. However, after a long time in the water, the skin can feel tight, dry, and sometimes irritated. The question of who the main culprit is – chlorine or sea water – comes up again and again, but the answer is more complex than it seems.
There is no single winner here. Both sea water and pool water can damage the skin’s natural protective barrier, but each does so in a different way. The longer the exposure, especially when combined with sun, heat, and wind, the greater the chance of dryness, sensitivity, and the worsening of existing skin problems.
Sea water is natural, but not always gentle
Sea water is rich in minerals, but it also contains a high concentration of salt. When salt remains on the skin and dries on it, it can draw moisture from the skin layers and leave a feeling of tightness, roughness, and irritation.
Many people assume that because it is natural water, it is necessarily good for the skin. In practice, when salt residues remain on the body along with exposure to the sun and wind, they can increase dryness and damage the natural protective layer.
In some people, sea water may initially create a more pleasant feel, especially on oily skin or skin prone to acne. The salt may temporarily dry out the skin and reduce the feeling of oiliness, but prolonged exposure can lead to the opposite result, including irritation, peeling, and increased production of oil in response to dryness.
Chlorine: Weakens the skin barrier
Chlorine is essential for maintaining water hygiene in pools and reducing the risk of developing bacteria and contaminants. However, it can strip the skin of part of its natural lipid layer, whose role is to reduce moisture loss and protect against external factors.
Chlorine does not burn the skin in most cases, but prolonged exposure to it can cause dryness, itching, redness, and a burning sensation. In people with atopic dermatitis, eczema, or sensitive skin, the reaction can be more significant.
Sometimes the source of irritation is not chlorine alone, but the combination of pool water, sun, sweat, friction from the swimsuit, and the hot shower that comes afterward. All of these together can weaken the skin barrier.
So what is more harmful?
The answer depends on the skin type, length of exposure, and the person’s health condition. Those with dry or sensitive skin may react more noticeably to chlorine. People suffering from acne may feel a temporary improvement after swimming in the sea, but excessive use or a long stay can increase irritation and dryness.
People dealing with chronic skin diseases need to be especially strict about proper care after swimming. There is no need to completely avoid the sea or the pool, but it is recommended to reduce prolonged exposure and be attentive to the skin’s reaction.
How do you protect your skin after swimming?
The most important action is to shower as close as possible to leaving the water. Both after swimming in the sea and after swimming in a pool, it is recommended to rinse the body and face with lukewarm water to remove residues of salt, chlorine, and sweat.
Afterward, it is important to apply a moisturizer. One of the common mistakes is thinking that in summer there is no need for moisture because the air is hot and the skin sweats. Precisely during this period, the skin is exposed to many factors that increase water loss, so applying a moisturizing product can help restore the protective barrier.
It is recommended to avoid scalding hot showers. Very hot water removes natural oils from the skin and can worsen dryness and irritation. It is better to choose lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser that does not contain particularly drying ingredients.
It is also important to ensure adequate fluid intake. Drinking water does not replace using a moisturizer, but it is part of general support for the body and skin during periods of heat, sweating, and prolonged outdoor activity.
A feeling of tightness, peeling, itching, redness, or burning are signs that the skin has already lost some of its moisture and protective ability. Early treatment, including gentle washing, applying moisturizer, and reducing exposure, may prevent deterioration.
Children, adults, and people with sensitive skin need increased protection because their skin barrier tends to be damaged faster. Anyone who suffers from chronic skin diseases also needs to ensure gentle cleansing, moisture, and sun protection to reduce the risk of a flare-up.
In the end, there is no need to choose between the sea and the pool out of fear. You can enjoy both, as long as you remember that the skin needs care even after the time in the water has ended.
Pola Blick Dayan is an expert in advanced cosmetics and natural medicine