**Boulder's Baths: Altitude Chlorine Crashing Kid Skin?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe smell of chlorine hangs heavy in the air, a constant companion to summer days in Boulder. But for parents of kids with sensitive skin, that familiar scent can be a source of dread. The combination of high altitude, intense sun, and heavily chlorinated public pools like Scott Carpenter Pool can lead to itchy rashes, dry skin, and a whole lot of discomfort. It doesn’t have to be this way.
Protecting your child’s skin from chlorine in Boulder’s unique environment requires a proactive and informed approach. It’s not just about slapping on some sunscreen and hoping for the best. It’s about understanding the specific challenges and implementing a comprehensive strategy.
Here’s how Boulder parents can keep their kids comfortable and rash-free while enjoying the pool.
Pre-Swim Protection: The Barrier is Key
The first line of defense is creating a physical barrier between the chlorine and your child’s skin. This isn’t just about moisturizing; it’s about using the right kind of product and applying it correctly.
Choose the Right Emollient: Look for thick, occlusive ointments or creams. Products containing petrolatum, shea butter, or dimethicone are excellent choices. These ingredients create a water-resistant layer that helps prevent chlorine from penetrating the skin. Avoid lotions, as they are mostly water and won’t provide adequate protection.
Apply Generously: Don’t skimp! Apply a thick layer of the emollient to all exposed skin at least 30 minutes before swimming. Pay special attention to areas prone to irritation, such as the elbows, knees, and neck. Think of it like frosting a cake – you want a good, even coating.
Hair Protection: Chlorine can also damage hair, making it dry and brittle. Wet your child’s hair with tap water before getting in the pool. This saturates the hair shaft, preventing it from absorbing as much chlorinated water. Follow up with a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to add an extra layer of protection.
Post-Swim Recovery: Rinse, Cleanse, and Replenish
The work doesn’t stop when you leave the pool. A thorough post-swim routine is crucial for removing chlorine residue and restoring moisture to the skin.
Immediate Rinse: Rinse your child’s skin with fresh water as soon as they get out of the pool. Many pools, including Scott Carpenter, have showers available for this purpose. The sooner you rinse, the less time chlorine has to irritate the skin.
Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to wash away any remaining chlorine and debris. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of its natural oils. Look for cleansers specifically designed for sensitive skin or those containing moisturizing ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid. CeraVe Baby Wash & Shampoo is a good option.
Moisturize Immediately: While the skin is still damp, apply a generous amount of moisturizer. This helps to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. Again, opt for thick creams or ointments containing petrolatum, shea butter, or dimethicone.
Consider a Chlorine-Neutralizing Product: Products containing Vitamin C can help neutralize chlorine. Look for post-swim sprays or lotions containing ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). These can be particularly helpful for children who are highly sensitive to chlorine.
Managing Chlorine Rashes: Soothing and Healing
Despite your best efforts, chlorine rashes can still occur. Here’s how to manage them effectively:
Identify the Rash: Chlorine rashes typically appear as red, itchy bumps or patches on the skin. They may be accompanied by dryness and scaling.
Cool Compress: Apply a cool, wet compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This can help to relieve itching and inflammation.
Topical Corticosteroids: For mild to moderate rashes, a low-potency topical corticosteroid cream (such as hydrocortisone 1%) can be applied to the affected area twice daily. Use sparingly and for no more than two weeks, unless directed by a doctor.
Emollient Therapy: Continue to apply a thick emollient to the affected area several times a day to keep the skin moisturized and promote healing.
Antihistamines: If itching is severe, an oral antihistamine (such as Benadryl or Zyrtec) can help to relieve the symptoms. Consult with your pediatrician before giving antihistamines to your child.
When to See a Doctor: If the rash is severe, doesn’t improve with home treatment, or is accompanied by signs of infection (such as fever, pus, or increased pain), consult with your pediatrician or a dermatologist.
Alternative Swimming Options in Boulder: Gentler Sanitization
While chlorine is the most common pool sanitization method, it’s not the only one. Exploring alternative swimming options with gentler sanitization methods can be a game-changer for kids with sensitive skin.
Saltwater Pools: Saltwater pools use a salt chlorine generator to produce chlorine. While they still contain chlorine, the concentration is typically lower than in traditional chlorinated pools. Some people find saltwater pools less irritating to the skin and eyes. The YMCA of Boulder Valley has some pools that utilize saltwater systems.
Mineral Pools: Mineral pools use a combination of minerals, such as magnesium and potassium, to help sanitize the water. These minerals can also have beneficial effects on the skin.
UV Sanitization: Some pools use ultraviolet (UV) light to kill bacteria and viruses. UV sanitization can reduce the amount of chlorine needed, making the water gentler on the skin.
Consider Private Pools or Hot Tubs with Alternative Sanitization: Some homeowners in Boulder opt for alternative sanitization methods for their private pools or hot tubs, such as ozone or ionization systems. While access to these may require knowing someone with a pool, it’s worth exploring if your child is particularly sensitive.
The Altitude Factor: Why Boulder is Different
Boulder’s high altitude (over 5,000 feet) exacerbates the effects of chlorine on the skin. The air is drier at higher altitudes, which can lead to increased water loss from the skin. This makes the skin more vulnerable to irritation from chlorine. The increased sun exposure at high altitude also contributes to skin damage, making it even more susceptible to chlorine rashes.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:
Not Applying Enough Emollient: Skimping on the emollient is a common mistake. You need a thick layer to create an effective barrier.
Using the Wrong Type of Emollient: Lotions are not effective for preventing chlorine irritation. Choose thick creams or ointments.
Not Rinsing Immediately After Swimming: The longer chlorine stays on the skin, the more damage it can do. Rinse as soon as possible.
Using Harsh Soaps: Harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils, making it more vulnerable to irritation. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
Ignoring Sun Protection: Sunburn can make the skin even more sensitive to chlorine. Always apply sunscreen to exposed skin.
Real-World Scenario: The Scott Carpenter Pool Challenge
Scott Carpenter Pool is a popular spot for Boulder families, but its heavily chlorinated water can be a challenge for kids with sensitive skin. One Boulder mom, Sarah, found that her daughter developed a rash every time they went to the pool. After implementing the pre- and post-swim routine described above, Sarah noticed a significant improvement. She now applies a thick layer of petrolatum-based ointment before swimming, rinses her daughter immediately after getting out of the pool, and applies a moisturizer while her skin is still damp. She also uses a chlorine-neutralizing spray. As a result, her daughter can now enjoy Scott Carpenter Pool without the dreaded rash.
Actionable Insights for Boulder Parents:
Create a Chlorine Protection Kit: Assemble a kit containing a thick emollient, a mild cleanser, a chlorine-neutralizing product, and a moisturizer. Keep this kit in your pool bag for easy access.
Educate Your Child: Teach your child about the importance of rinsing after swimming and applying moisturizer. Make it a fun and engaging part of their pool routine.
Advocate for Change: Talk to the management of your local pool about alternative sanitization methods. The more demand there is for gentler options, the more likely they are to be implemented.
Connect with Other Parents: Share your experiences and tips with other Boulder parents who have children with sensitive skin. You can learn from each other and support each other in finding solutions.
Protecting your child’s sensitive skin from chlorine in Boulder’s high-altitude environment requires a proactive and informed approach. By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can help your child enjoy the pool without the discomfort of chlorine rashes. Remember, consistency is key. Make these practices a regular part of your pool routine, and you’ll be well on your way to happy, healthy swimming.