Neha Singh Neha Singh Asked 6 months ago

Does chlorine make eczema worse?

My dermatologist told me to be careful with my skin because of my eczema. My friends want to go to the water park next week, but I'm scared. Will the chlorine in the water there make my eczema worse and cause a flare-up?

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7 answers

Gita Viswanathan Gita Viswanathan Joined Mar 2026 6 months ago
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In my years of dealing with skin issues in our family, I have noticed pool water almost always triggers a flare. If you must swim, try applying a generous layer of pure vaseline or a thick barrier cream before getting into the pool. Rinse off with fresh water immediately after.

Neha Bajaj Neha Bajaj Joined May 2026 5 months ago

It definitely can! Chlorine is super drying for sensitive skin. Just make sure to take a quick shower right after swimming and slather on your favorite heavy moisturizer.

Suresh Prasad Suresh Prasad Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Our bodies are very sensitive to harsh artificial chemicals. It is natural for the skin to react to chlorine. Stay calm, keep your mind peaceful, and protect your body by avoiding heavy pool chemicals till your skin heals naturally.

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Sanya Mirza Sanya Mirza Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Hey, I struggle with eczema too and pools are my biggest enemy during summers. The chlorine just strips away whatever moisture my skin has left, making me scratch all night. I started applying extra moisturizer even before stepping near the pool.

Kunal Sen Kunal Sen Joined Jan 2026 6 months ago

Oh, it absolutely wrecks my skin. Between dealing with my baby crying all night and the insane itching from yesterday's pool session, I haven't slept a wink. Take my advice and avoid the pool if your skin is already dry.

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Deepika Shah Deepika Shah Joined Mar 2026 6 months ago

I get so scared of swimming pools now because even a ten-minute dip makes my arms break out in red patches. What if the chlorine stays in the skin forever? Please be careful and maybe wash your skin three times with fresh water after you come out.

Vivek Anand Vivek Anand Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

According to the dermatologist I consulted, chlorine is a strong disinfectant that raises the pH of your skin, which directly compromises the skin barrier in eczema patients. He advised me to strictly avoid chlorinated pools during active flares and use ceramide-based creams right after bathing.

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