Dallas Pools: Chlorine Lies Burning Youth Skin?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 7, 2026

It’s a familiar scene in Dallas: the scorching summer heat driving families to the nearest pool for a refreshing escape. But beneath the shimmering surface lurks a potential irritant, especially for our little ones: chlorine. It’s not just about the chlorine smell; it’s about the impact on their delicate skin.

Dallas’s unique water chemistry, combined with the high chlorine levels often found in both municipal and private pools, creates a perfect storm for skin irritation in children. Let’s dive into how to protect your kids.

The problem starts with chlorine itself. It’s a powerful disinfectant, essential for keeping pools safe from harmful bacteria. However, chlorine reacts with organic matter in the water – think sweat, sunscreen, and even dead skin cells – to form chloramines. These chloramines are the real culprits behind that “chlorine” smell and the itchy, dry skin that often follows a swim.

Dallas’s water hardness plays a significant role. Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can bind with chlorine, making it less effective as a disinfectant. To compensate, pool operators often increase chlorine levels, exacerbating the skin irritation problem.

So, what can parents in Dallas do? The key is a multi-pronged approach: minimizing exposure, neutralizing chlorine, and restoring the skin’s natural barrier.

First, minimize exposure. This doesn’t mean avoiding the pool altogether, but rather being strategic.

• Swim diapers are essential. They reduce the amount of organic matter entering the pool, decreasing chloramine formation.
• Shower before swimming. This removes sweat and other contaminants from the skin, again reducing chloramine production.
• Limit swim time. Shorter swims mean less exposure to chlorine and chloramines. Consider breaking up longer pool days with breaks in the shade.

Next, neutralize the chlorine. This is where specific products come into play.

• Immediately after swimming, shower with a chlorine-neutralizing body wash. Look for products containing Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) or sodium thiosulfate. These ingredients effectively neutralize chlorine. A great option readily available at most CVS and Walgreens locations in Dallas is the TriSwim Chlorine Removal Body Wash. It’s specifically formulated for swimmers and is gentle enough for children.
• Don’t just rinse; wash thoroughly. Pay particular attention to areas prone to irritation, such as the armpits, groin, and behind the knees.
• Follow up with a moisturizing lotion or cream. Chlorine strips the skin of its natural oils, so replenishing moisture is crucial. Look for products containing ceramides, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, widely available at Target and Walmart stores across Dallas, is an excellent choice. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

But what if your child already has chlorine-related dermatitis? This is where a pediatric dermatologist comes in.

Finding the right specialist in the Dallas-Fort Worth area is key. Here’s how:

• Ask your pediatrician for a referral. They likely have recommendations for dermatologists specializing in pediatric skin conditions.
• Check online directories. Websites like the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org) allow you to search for board-certified dermatologists in your area.
• Look for specialists with experience treating chlorine-related dermatitis. When scheduling an appointment, specifically ask about their experience with this condition.

Some highly-rated pediatric dermatologists in the Dallas area include:

• Dr. Linda Banta at Dallas Dermatology Partners. She has extensive experience treating various skin conditions in children.
• Dr. Jennifer Cather at Modern Dermatology of North Texas in Plano. She is known for her expertise in pediatric dermatology and her compassionate approach.

A dermatologist can recommend prescription-strength creams or ointments to alleviate inflammation and itching. They can also help identify any underlying skin conditions, such as eczema, that may be exacerbating the problem.

One common mistake parents make is assuming that all moisturizers are created equal. Many over-the-counter lotions contain fragrances and other irritants that can actually worsen chlorine-related dermatitis. Stick to fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products specifically designed for sensitive skin.

Another pitfall is neglecting to protect the skin before swimming. Applying a barrier cream, such as Aquaphor Healing Ointment (available at most drugstores in Dallas), can help create a protective layer between the skin and the chlorinated water.

Finally, remember that prevention is always better than cure. By taking proactive steps to minimize chlorine exposure and protect your child’s skin, you can help them enjoy the pool without the discomfort of itchy, dry skin. Don’t let Dallas’s summer heat and hard water ruin your family’s pool time.