How Chlorine Affects Your Skin & Ingredients That Help

Whether you’re doing daily laps or just taking a vacation dip, spending time in the pool is great for the soul, but not always for your skin. Chlorine may keep pool water clean, but it can be harsh on your complexion. The good news? With the right post-swim skincare routine and barrier-repairing ingredients, you can enjoy the water and keep your skin happy, healthy, and glowing.

What Does Chlorine Do to Your Skin?

When it comes to swimming skincare, chlorine can do more harm than you think. Chlorine strips away your skin’s natural oils which can lead to dryness, flaking, and sensitivity. Overtime, chlorine exposure can weaken the skin’s moisture barrier and make it vulnerable to irritation, breakouts, and environmental damage, especially for those with sensitive or combination skin.

To rinse away chlorine without over-drying, reach for something gentle, but effective like our SKINLONGEVITY® Cushion Cloud Foaming Cleanser. It has a soft, cloud-like texture that lifts away impurities, including chlorine, while leaving the skin feeling calm, clean and refreshed.

How to Repair Chlorine-Damaged Skin with Hydrating Ingredients

The best way to hydrate chlorine-damaged skin is by layering in nourishing, science-backed ingredients. Squalane is a lightweight lipid that helps restore skin’s natural moisture levels. Ceramides work to rebuild the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid draws in and locks moisture deep into the skin.

We recommend applying our SKIN RESCUE Serums immediately after cleansing. Formulated to brighten and visibly repair stressed skin, it’s perfect for post-pool care. Follow with SKINLONGEVITY® Butter Drench Cream, a rich, comforting moisturizer that deeply hydrates and supports the barrier function.

Why Mineral-Based SPF & Antioxidants Help Post-Swim

After time in the pool, your skin isn’t just exposed to chlorine, it’s also more susceptible to UV damage and environmental stressors. Antioxidant skincare helps neutralize free radicals that can accelerate aging, while mineral SPF provides immediate, gentle protection for all skin types, especially sensitive or recently cleansed skin.

For light, breathable coverage and sun protection, explore our makeup products with mineral-based SPF, offering makeup coverage and enhanced defense after chlorine exposure.

What’s the Best bareMinerals Routine After Pooling?

Crafting a clean post-chlorine skincare routine is all about three essential steps: cleanse, hydrate, and protect. Here’s our recommended AM & PM post-swim skincare routine:

1. Cleanse: Wash away chlorine with SKINLONGEVITY® Cushion Cloud Foaming Cleanser.
2. Hydrate: Apply SKIN RESCUE Serums to replenish moisture and soothe.
3. Moisturize: Lock it all in with SKINLONGEVITY® Butter Drench Cream for long-lasting hydration.
4. Protect: Finish with Mineral SPF to shield skin from sun exposure.

Whether you’ve just done laps or lounged poolside, this routine supports skin clarity, resilience, and radiance.

Explore more skin barrier protecting products in our Skincare Collection.

FAQs

Can chlorine cause long-term skin damage?

Yes, chlorine skin damage is cumulative. Regular exposure without proper post-swim care can lead to chronic chlorine exposure symptoms like persistent dryness, redness, and compromised barrier health. To prevent this, always cleanse and moisturize after swimming.

Is squalane or ceramide better for post-chlorine hydration?

Wondering about squalane vs ceramide? The answer is: both. Squalane mimics natural skin oils to replenish lost lipids, while ceramides strengthen and rebuild the barrier. Together, they offer superior hydration after pool exposure. 

Should I wear makeup right after swimming?

Swimming and makeup don’t mix well, at least not until you’ve properly cleansed. We recommend washing your face with a gentle cleanser first, then applying lightweight, breathable products for an effortless post swim makeup refresh.

Does chlorine affect all skin types the same?

No, chlorine and sensitive skin can be a tough combo, often resulting in redness and irritation. Oily skin chlorine effects might include tight pores or imbalance, while combination types can experience both dryness and clogged pores. Tailor your routine to your skin’s needs.

How soon after chlorine should I moisturize?

Timing matters. For optimal recovery, when to moisturize after swimming is within five minutes of getting out of the shower. Lock in hydration and support your barrier with Butter Drench Cream for the best post-swim hydration timing.

Can I use plain water to rinse off chlorine?

While rinsing with water helps, it isn’t enough to fully remove residue. For a thorough swimming rinse routine, use a targeted cleanser like SKINLONGEVITY® Cushion Cloud Foaming Cleanser to ensure all chlorine and impurities are washed away.

By understanding how chlorine affects your skin and adopting a restorative clean skin routine, you can keep your complexion hydrated, healthy, and radiant all summer long. Dive in—and glow on.

Explore more in our Skincare Collection or Sun Protection Collection.