Austin Pools: Is City Water Hiding Summer Sunburns?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

March 31, 2026

The shimmering heat rising off the pavement is a familiar sight in Austin summers. We slather on sunscreen before hitting Zilker Park or Barton Springs, but what about our time in the pool? Many Austinites don’t realize that the very chemicals designed to keep our public pools clean can actually mask the early warning signs of sun damage, leading to more severe sunburns. It’s time to dive deeper into the science of pool water and sun safety, specifically for those of us living in the Live Music Capital.

Chlorine is the traditional disinfectant, but Austin pools, like many others across the country, often use chloramine, a compound formed when chlorine reacts with sweat, urine, and other organic matter in the water. While chloramine is still a disinfectant, it’s less effective than chlorine and produces those telltale “pool smell” and eye irritation.

Here’s the crucial point: chloramine can desensitize your skin. It disrupts the skin’s natural barrier, making it more vulnerable to UV radiation. This means you might not feel the initial burning sensation that usually alerts you to seek shade. You’re essentially getting a head start on a sunburn without realizing it.

Think of it like this: you’re at Deep Eddy Pool, enjoying the cool water. The chloramine is subtly numbing your skin, while the Texas sun is relentlessly bombarding you with UV rays. Because you don’t feel the immediate sting, you stay in the sun longer than you normally would, significantly increasing your risk of a severe burn.

So, how do you protect yourself? It’s a multi-pronged approach, combining preventative measures with post-swim skincare.

First, sunscreen is non-negotiable. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at least 15 minutes before entering the pool. Don’t skimp! Use about an ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after toweling off.

• Pro Tip: Look for sunscreens specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Brands like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk (available at most Austin drugstores like CVS or Walgreens) are a good choice. They’re less likely to cause irritation from the combined effects of chloramine and UV exposure.

Second, consider a physical sunscreen. These sunscreens, containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, create a physical barrier against the sun. They’re generally less irritating than chemical sunscreens, especially for those with sensitive skin.

• Example: Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen (also widely available in Austin) is a popular physical sunscreen known for its effectiveness and gentleness.

Third, protective clothing is your friend. A rash guard or swim shirt can significantly reduce your skin’s exposure to both UV rays and chloramine. Hats and sunglasses are also essential.

Fourth, shower immediately after swimming. This is crucial to remove chloramine residue from your skin. Use a gentle, moisturizing soap.

• Recommendation: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, readily available at Target or HEB in Austin, is a great option. It cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

Fifth, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Sunburn draws moisture from your body, so drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming.

Sixth, replenish your skin’s moisture barrier. After showering, apply a rich moisturizer to help repair any damage caused by the chloramine and sun exposure.

• Austin Specific: Consider using a locally made product! Many Austin boutiques and farmers’ markets offer natural skincare products with ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter, which are excellent for soothing and hydrating sun-exposed skin. Check out the Sustainable Food Center Farmers’ Market for local options.

Seventh, be aware of peak sun hours. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to limit your sun exposure during these hours, especially if you’re swimming.

Eighth, know the signs of sunburn. Even with precautions, sunburn can still happen. Look for redness, pain, blistering, and itching. If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the sun immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

Ninth, address sunburn promptly. If you do get burned, apply cool compresses and aloe vera gel to soothe the skin. Avoid picking at blisters, as this can increase the risk of infection.

• Local Tip: For a natural sunburn remedy, try pure aloe vera gel from a local Austin health food store like Wheatsville Co-op.

Tenth, understand the difference between chlorine and chloramine reactions. Chlorine allergies are rare, but chloramine sensitivity is more common. If you experience persistent skin irritation, even with proper precautions, you may be sensitive to chloramine. Talk to your doctor or dermatologist.

A common pitfall is assuming that because you don’t feel burned, you’re not getting sun damage. The chloramine masking effect is real, and it can lead to serious sunburns. Another mistake is neglecting post-swim skincare. Removing chloramine residue and replenishing your skin’s moisture barrier are essential for preventing long-term damage.

One challenge is finding the right sunscreen that works for your skin type and doesn’t cause breakouts. Experiment with different brands and formulations until you find one that you like and that provides adequate protection. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from dermatologists or skincare professionals.

Another challenge is remembering to reapply sunscreen. Set a timer on your phone or keep a bottle of sunscreen in your pool bag as a reminder. Make it a habit to reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.

Finally, remember that sun safety is an ongoing process. It’s not just about applying sunscreen once and forgetting about it. It’s about being aware of the risks, taking precautions, and paying attention to your skin. By following these tips, you can enjoy Austin’s pools without risking a painful and potentially dangerous sunburn. So, go ahead, take a dip in that refreshing water, but do it smart, Austin!