With summer in full swing and outdoor pools opening up, many people are eager to cool off with a refreshing swim. However, frequent swimming can sometimes lead to chlorine rash, a common form of contact dermatitis.
Chlorine rashes are less than ideal, especially during the summer. While they might not be entirely preventable, they are relatively easy to treat. Here, a dermatologist explains what you need to know about chlorine rashes, from identifying symptoms to treatment options. Read on to learn how to manage this skin irritation and get back to enjoying the water.
What is Chlorine Rash?
Chlorine rash is an itchy, irritant dermatitis, similar to eczema, explains Dr. David Pearson, MD, a dermatologist with M Health Fairview and the University of Minnesota Medical School. “It tends to appear in areas with more friction, such as under a bathing suit, on the thighs, or under the armpits.” Typically, the rash manifests as pink, but in more severe cases, it can turn red.
Since chlorine rashes resemble eczema, they can be challenging to diagnose. Consulting your doctor about recent exposures can help determine if your dermatitis is due to chlorine.
How Does Chlorine Rash Develop?
Chlorine rashes occur from prolonged exposure to chlorinated water in pools or hot tubs. The active ingredient in chlorine is sodium hypochlorite, similar to household bleach but less concentrated.
According to Dr. Pearson, while some irritation is due to bleach, most stems from how it reacts with substances on our skin, such as sweat, skin cells, topical creams, and even urine. These interactions create disinfection byproducts that irritate the skin.
How Long Does Chlorine Rash Last?
The duration of a chlorine rash depends on your exposure to pool water. According to Healthline, contact dermatitis can take two to four weeks to clear up.
“If someone swims recreationally, once a week or every other week, they may recover fully by using moisturizers between swims if the rash is mild,” Dr. Pearson notes.
However, competitive swimmers with daily, prolonged exposure might require prescription topical medications to manage inflammation. Recovery time also varies based on individual skin sensitivity. Those with very sensitive skin may need more aggressive treatment with prescription topicals.
How Do You Get Rid of Chlorine Rash?
For mild chlorine rashes, over-the-counter creams can alleviate irritation. Dr. Pearson recommends thick white creams like Cerave, Cetaphil, and Vanicream, or petroleum ointments such as Aquaphor or Vaseline for their moisturizing properties.
For more severe rashes, topical prescription creams may be necessary. Common treatments include low to medium potency corticosteroids like 2% hydrocortisone, triamcinolone, and fluocinolone, according to Dr. Pearson.
By understanding and treating chlorine rash effectively, you can ensure it doesn’t dampen your summer fun. Enjoy your time in the water with the right precautions and treatments in place.
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