Deepak Menon Deepak Menon Asked 5 months ago

Does chlorine bother eczema?

I have eczema, and I'm thinking of joining a swimming class. I'm a bit hesitant though, because I'm worried about the pool water. Will the chlorine in the swimming pool bother my eczema and make it itchy or irritated?

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5 answers

Divya Nair Divya Nair Joined Apr 2026 5 months ago
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Yes, it really does. Every time I go to a swimming pool, the chlorine dries out my skin and triggers a nasty eczema flare-up. I highly recommend applying a thick barrier cream or Vaseline before entering the water.

Siddharth Goel Siddharth Goel Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

Absolutely, chlorine is a major irritant for sensitive skin. It strips away the protective barrier, causing immediate itching and redness. If you have eczema, you should avoid heavily chlorinated public pools completely.

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Sanjay Mishra Sanjay Mishra Joined Mar 2026 5 months ago

As if my dry skin wasn't enough, pool chlorine makes me look like a peeling potato! Yes, it definitely bothers eczema. Best to stay away from the pool, or at least wash yourself thoroughly with fresh water right after.

Arjun Rana Arjun Rana Joined May 2026 5 months ago

Don't worry, you don't have to give up swimming forever, but yes, chlorine does bother eczema quite a bit. Just make sure to shower with a mild soap immediately after, apply a good moisturizer, and keep your skin protected.

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Meera Deshpande Meera Deshpande Joined Jun 2026 5 months ago

Yes, my dermatologist at Apollo hospital told me that chlorine is one of the worst triggers for eczema. You should ask your doctor clearly for a prescription emollient that can protect your skin barrier before swimming.

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