What are the lasting effects of chlorine on the skin?

Chlorine is considered as a commonly used water treatment to eliminate bacteria in both public and private swimming pools. The chemical is added not only added to swimming pools but also present even in tap water. It is important to note that most cities in developed countries treat their city water supply with chlorine and many individuals are mostly exposed to chlorine while bathing. The chlorinated water can cause lasting effects on the skin that you should be well aware of. If you want to learn more about these effects and what you can do to reduce the damage on the skin, click here.

Rashes, eczema and acne

Always bear in mind that chlorine not only eliminates the bad bacteria that causes sickness but also kills the good bacteria which the skin relies on. The chlorinated water is capable of destroying most of the intestinal flora which are the good bacteria that not only helps with the optimal digestion process but also with the production of vitamins K and B12.

Chlorinated water can also destroy vitamin E and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Take note that all of these can lead to the formation of acne as well as other skin irritations including rashes and eczema.

Chlorine-prolonged effects on the skin

Chlorine can destroy most of the required protein inside the body. On short term basis, this can result to dry, itchy skin.


In some studies conducted, chlorine was discovered to actually promote the production of free radicals inside the body, specifically in the skin. The free radicals have been shown to instigate cancer as well as exposure to chlorine. The consumption of tap water has also been connected to breast, bowel and bladder cancer while the long term effects of bathing, drinking and swimming in chlorinated water has shown to cause malignant melanoma or skin cancer.

Reduced proteins and dry skin

Chlorine can destroy most of the required protein inside the body. On short term basis, this can result to dry, itchy skin. If the depletion progresses, it can lead to severely dry skin. Even though many believe that soaking in a tub can help alleviate dry skin, it can actually cause more harm than good.

Always bear in mind that water alone can deplete the skin of its natural oil that are responsible for retaining the moisture and chlorine will only intensify this effect. Baths and showers must be short and the suitable moisturizer must be applied after.

Premature aging

Most of the anti-aging products in the market contain antioxidants to help fight and eliminate free radicals inside the skin since they are known to cause premature aging such as the fine lines. The free radicals can increase toxicity which can trigger skin irritations such as the development of rashes and acne. In some studies conducted, it was discovered that chlorinated water promotes the aging process which is similar to the effect of prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.