Austin Pools: Are Chemicals Killing Skin Biome?
By Franklin Everett ShawThat chlorine smell at Barton Springs? It’s not just chlorine; it’s a sign your skin’s about to wage war.
Austin’s love affair with its pools, especially during the scorching summers, comes at a price. That price? A disrupted skin microbiome thanks to prolonged exposure to chlorinated water.
Chlorine, while essential for keeping our swimming spots safe from harmful bacteria, is a harsh mistress. It strips away the natural oils and beneficial bacteria that form our skin’s protective barrier.
This barrier, the skin microbiome, is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms that live on our skin. It’s crucial for maintaining hydration, regulating inflammation, and protecting against pathogens.
When chlorine disrupts this delicate balance, it can lead to a host of problems, including dryness, itching, redness, and even eczema flare-ups. Austin’s hard water, already a challenge for skin, exacerbates the issue.
Think of your skin like the Texas Hill Country. A healthy microbiome is like a thriving ecosystem with diverse plant life and wildlife. Chlorine is like a wildfire, burning everything in its path, leaving the soil barren and vulnerable.
So, what can Austinites do to protect their skin after a refreshing dip in the pool? The answer lies in replenishing what the chlorine strips away.
First, rinse off immediately after swimming. Don’t let the chlorinated water linger on your skin. The longer it stays, the more damage it can do.
Next, use a gentle, hydrating cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps that will further strip your skin of its natural oils. Look for cleansers that are fragrance-free and specifically designed for sensitive skin.
Consider options available at Wheatsville Co-op. They often stock locally made, natural skincare products that are gentler on the skin.
After cleansing, immediately apply a moisturizer. This is the most crucial step in restoring your skin’s barrier function.
Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like:
- Ceramides: These are lipids that are naturally found in the skin and help to maintain its barrier function.
- Hyaluronic acid: This is a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin.
- Glycerin: Another humectant that helps to hydrate the skin.
- Shea butter: A rich emollient that helps to soften and soothe the skin.
Whole Foods Market on Lamar is a great place to find moisturizers with these ingredients. Check the labels carefully and choose products that are free of parabens, phthalates, and other potentially irritating ingredients.
For those with particularly sensitive skin, consider using a barrier repair cream. These creams are specifically designed to help restore the skin’s barrier function and reduce inflammation.
Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream, available at many drugstores and online retailers, is a popular choice. It contains ingredients that help to soothe and protect the skin, promoting healing and reducing irritation.
Don’t forget about your hair! Chlorine can also damage your hair, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
Rinse your hair thoroughly after swimming and use a moisturizing conditioner. Consider using a swim cap to protect your hair from chlorine exposure.
Beyond post-swim skincare, consider the pool itself. Are there alternatives to traditional chlorine sanitization?
Yes! Some Austin pools are exploring alternative sanitization methods, such as:
- Saltwater pools: These pools use salt to generate chlorine, which is generally considered to be gentler on the skin than traditional chlorine. However, it’s still chlorine.
- Ozone systems: Ozone is a powerful disinfectant that can kill bacteria and viruses without the use of chlorine.
- UV systems: UV light can also be used to disinfect pool water, killing bacteria and viruses without the use of chlorine.
While these alternative methods are promising, they are not yet widely adopted. Talk to your local pool operator about their sanitization methods and whether they are considering alternatives.
One common mistake people make is thinking that just any moisturizer will do. A lightweight lotion might feel nice, but it won’t provide the deep hydration and barrier repair that your skin needs after chlorine exposure.
Another mistake is not moisturizing immediately after showering. The longer you wait, the more moisture your skin will lose.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your skin from the sun! Sunscreen is essential, especially when swimming outdoors. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it liberally 15-20 minutes before swimming.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Consider mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally considered safer for both your skin and the environment.
The Zilker Park pool, a beloved Austin institution, is a prime example of a heavily chlorinated pool. Swimmers who frequent Zilker are particularly susceptible to skin irritation.
Taking proactive steps to protect your skin before and after swimming is crucial.
Remember, consistency is key. Make these skincare practices a regular part of your routine, especially during the summer months when you’re swimming more frequently.
Don’t let chlorine ruin your Austin pool experience. By understanding the effects of chlorine on your skin and taking proactive steps to protect it, you can enjoy the water without sacrificing your skin’s health.
Embrace the Austin summer, but protect your skin! Your microbiome will thank you.