Why Florida's "Healthy" Pools Turn 40-Plus Skin Green
By Franklin Everett ShawEver notice a faint green hue on your skin after a dip in the pool, especially if you’re enjoying your golden years in sunny Florida? It’s not an optical illusion, and you’re not turning into the Hulk. It’s a real phenomenon, particularly prevalent among older residents of communities like The Villages, and it’s often linked to the unique chemistry of Florida pools and aging skin.
Let’s dive into the science behind this verdant vexation.
The primary culprit is copper. Many older homes in Florida, especially in areas like The Villages, rely on well water. Well water, while often potable, can contain higher concentrations of minerals, including copper.
Copper pipes, common in older plumbing systems, also contribute to the problem. As water flows through these pipes, it can leach copper, further increasing the copper content of your pool water.
Now, add pool chemicals to the mix. Chlorine, while essential for sanitation, can react with copper, forming copper compounds that dissolve in the water. These dissolved copper compounds are what cause the green tint.
But why are older individuals more susceptible? Aging skin plays a crucial role. As we age, our skin produces less sebum, the natural oil that protects our skin. This makes older skin more porous and more absorbent.
Furthermore, older skin often has a reduced ability to effectively eliminate absorbed substances. This means that copper absorbed during a swim is more likely to accumulate in the skin, leading to the telltale green discoloration.
The Villages, with its large population of retirees and reliance on well water, is a perfect storm for this issue. Many residents spend significant time in their backyard pools, exacerbating the problem.
So, what can you do to prevent or remediate this green skin issue?
First, understand your pool water. Get your pool water professionally tested for copper levels. Many pool supply stores offer this service. Knowing your copper concentration is the first step in addressing the problem.
If your copper levels are high, consider using a chelating agent. Chelating agents bind to copper ions, preventing them from reacting with chlorine and depositing on your skin. Look for products specifically designed for pool use and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Regularly shocking your pool can also help. Shocking oxidizes organic matter and helps to keep the water clear, reducing the likelihood of copper deposition.
Consider using a sequestering agent. Sequestering agents, similar to chelating agents, help to keep copper in solution, preventing it from precipitating out and staining surfaces or skin.
Proper pool maintenance is paramount. Maintain proper pH levels. A pH that is too high or too low can exacerbate copper corrosion and deposition. Aim for a pH between 7.2 and 7.8.
Clean your pool regularly. Remove leaves, debris, and other organic matter that can contribute to copper corrosion.
Consider a copper algaecide alternative. While copper-based algaecides are effective, they contribute to the problem. Explore alternative algaecides that don’t contain copper.
For remediation, chelation therapy, while typically used for heavy metal poisoning, can be considered in severe cases. However, this should only be done under the supervision of a medical professional. Chelation therapy involves intravenous administration of a chelating agent that binds to copper in the body, allowing it to be excreted.
Topical creams containing EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), another chelating agent, may also help to remove copper from the skin. Consult with a dermatologist before using any topical treatments.
Dietary adjustments can also play a role. While you can’t completely eliminate copper absorption through the skin, you can support your body’s natural detoxification processes. Ensure you’re getting enough antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, which can help to protect your skin from damage.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins, including copper.
Consider installing a whole-house water filter. This can help to reduce the copper content of your water supply, not just in your pool but also in your drinking water and showers.
Replace copper pipes with PVC or PEX pipes. This is a more drastic measure, but it can significantly reduce the amount of copper in your water system.
One common mistake is over-treating the pool with chemicals. More isn’t always better. Excessive chlorine can actually worsen the problem by reacting with copper and forming more copper compounds.
Another pitfall is neglecting pool maintenance. Regular cleaning and proper pH balance are essential for preventing copper buildup.
Don’t ignore the problem. If you notice a green tint to your skin after swimming, take action. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to remove the copper.
This isn’t just an aesthetic issue. While a green tint might be embarrassing, excessive copper exposure can also have health implications. Copper toxicity can lead to various symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Consider this scenario: Mrs. Davis, a resident of The Villages, noticed a persistent green tint to her skin after swimming in her pool. She initially dismissed it as a minor annoyance. However, after several weeks, she started experiencing fatigue and digestive issues. A blood test revealed elevated copper levels. After implementing the strategies outlined above, including chelation therapy and proper pool maintenance, Mrs. Davis’s copper levels returned to normal, and her symptoms resolved.
The green skin phenomenon is a real concern for many Florida residents, particularly those in communities like The Villages. By understanding the science behind it and implementing the prevention and remediation strategies outlined above, you can enjoy your pool without turning into a swamp thing. Remember, proactive pool maintenance, water testing, and awareness of your body’s response are key to keeping your skin healthy and your pool sparkling.