A dip in the pool is one of life’s simplest pleasures—especially in summer. But for families dealing with sensitive skin, eczema, or allergies, swimming isn’t always worry-free. The good news? A fibreglass pool can still be enjoyed safely and comfortably with a bit of care and know-how. Here’s what families should know about how pool water affects skin, what the risks are, and how to keep everyone’s skin healthy before, during, and after swimming.
Why Swimming Affects Skin
Water itself isn’t usually the problem. It’s what’s in the water—and how long you’re exposed—that can trigger irritation or dryness.
When we swim, our skin is exposed to:
- Pool chemicals, like chlorine or salt-based chlorinators
- Changes in pH or water balance, which can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier
- Extended soaking, which strips away natural oils
- Heat and sun, which compound the effects
For people with sensitive skin, the moisture barrier is often already compromised. This makes it easier for irritants to sneak in and cause redness, dryness, itchiness, or flare-ups.
Chlorine Vs Saltwater Pools: Which Is Gentler?
Most modern fibreglass pools use either traditional chlorine or a saltwater chlorination system. Both sanitise the water, but they do it differently—and that can affect how skin responds.
Chlorine pools use liquid or granular chlorine to kill bacteria and keep the water clean. It’s effective, but if levels are too high or not balanced properly, it can cause a strong smell, eye irritation, and dry skin.
Saltwater pools use a salt chlorinator to convert salt into chlorine. This method produces gentler, more stable chlorine levels, and many people find it less harsh on the skin. While it’s not “chlorine-free,” the lower concentration and smoother feel of the water often make saltwater pools a better choice for families with sensitive skin.
Bottom line: Saltwater systems tend to be the more skin-friendly option, but proper water balance matters more than the system itself.
Signs That Pool Water Might Be Irritating Skin
Not sure if the pool is to blame for your child’s itchy arms or dry patches? Look for these signs after swimming:
- Red, dry, or rough skin—especially around the elbows, knees, or neck
- Itching or tingling that worsens after swimming
- Small rashes or flare-ups in areas where swimwear traps water
- Increased eczema symptoms or new patches appearing
If symptoms appear consistently after swimming, your pool water might need testing—or your skincare routine may need adjusting.
Tips For Protecting Sensitive Skin In The Pool
Here are some practical ways to make swimming safer and more comfortable for kids (and adults) with sensitive skin:
1. Rinse before swimming
This might seem counterintuitive, but rinsing off in the shower before entering the pool helps. Damp skin absorbs fewer pool chemicals than dry skin, and it also reduces the sweat, sunscreen, or dirt that can react with chlorine and irritate skin.
2. Apply a barrier cream
A light, fragrance-free moisturiser or barrier cream before swimming can act as a protective layer between skin and water. Look for products made for sensitive skin or those with colloidal oatmeal or ceramides.
3. Avoid long sessions in the water
Shorter swims reduce exposure time and give skin a break. Encourage kids to take breaks every 20–30 minutes and rinse off when getting out.
4. Shower immediately after swimming
This is crucial. Use lukewarm water and a gentle, soap-free wash to remove chlorine or salt. Pat the skin dry—don’t rub—and follow up with moisturiser straight away.
5. Moisturise thoroughly
Within five minutes of getting out of the shower, apply a rich, fragrance-free moisturiser. Ointments and creams are more effective than lotions for locking in moisture.
Is Pool Water Safe For Kids With Eczema?
In most cases, yes. In fact, controlled exposure to chlorinated water can sometimes help reduce eczema-related bacteria on the skin. But it’s a delicate balance.
To reduce the chance of a flare-up:
- Keep water properly balanced and avoid over-chlorination.
- Stick to short swim sessions followed by a thorough rinse and moisturise.
- Avoid swimming during active eczema flare-ups unless advised by a doctor.
- Watch for triggers like tight swimwear, hot weather, or rough towels that can make things worse.
Some children with eczema thrive with regular swims and report improved symptoms—while others need to be more cautious. It’s all about individual response.
Keep Your Pool Water Skin-Friendly
The best way to protect sensitive skin? Keep your pool water properly maintained.
Regular testing is key:
- Aim for pH between 7.2 and 7.6
- Keep chlorine levels within the recommended range (usually 1–3 ppm for saltwater systems)
- Monitor total alkalinity and calcium hardness to avoid imbalance
- Shock the pool only when needed—overdoing it increases irritation risk
Automatic dosing systems and robotic sensors can help keep chemical levels consistent, which is especially helpful if you’re managing skin sensitivity in the family.
Pool Equipment Can Help Too
If sensitive skin is a recurring issue, it might be worth looking into:
- UV sanitation systems, which reduce reliance on chlorine by using ultraviolet light to kill bacteria
- Ozone generators, which assist in breaking down organic material with fewer byproducts
- Mineral pool systems, which use magnesium or other minerals that can feel gentler on the skin
These systems don’t replace chlorine entirely, but they can reduce your dependency on high levels and help keep the water clearer and more comfortable.
Sunscreen: Friend or Foe?
When managing sensitive skin, sunscreen can be a tricky topic. You want to protect against sunburn—but many products contain fragrances, preservatives or chemicals that can trigger reactions, especially when mixed with chlorine.
Tips for sunscreen and pool time:
- Choose mineral-based (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sunscreens labelled for sensitive skin
- Apply 15–20 minutes before swimming so it can bind to the skin properly
- Reapply after swimming—even if it’s water-resistant
- Rinse off thoroughly post-swim to remove any residue
Test new sunscreens on a small patch of skin before full use if your child is prone to flare-ups.
Don’t Let Skin Sensitivity Steal The Fun
Sensitive skin can make pool time more complicated, but it doesn’t have to mean missing out. With the right strategies and pool care, most families can enjoy regular swims without skin issues ruining the fun.
Pay attention to your water balance, use gentle skincare routines, and adapt to how your family’s skin responds. If problems persist, speak with a GP or dermatologist to rule out allergies or underlying skin conditions.
Your fibreglass pool should be a source of joy—not discomfort. With a bit of planning, it can stay that way for every member of the family.
