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    Home » Featured Body Care » Chlorine Itch & Swimming Pools: 5 Ways to Naturally Protect Swimmers

    Chlorine Itch & Swimming Pools: 5 Ways to Naturally Protect Swimmers

    Published: May 8, 2018 · Modified: Mar 17, 2020 by Bren

    Do you have itchy, irritated skin caused by swimming? You may be suffering from chlorine itch. Learn how to reduce the effects of pool chemicals (including chlorine) on your skin and how to naturally protect swimmers.

    Chlorine pools how to protect swimmers hair and skin, Naturally Protect Swimmers from Chlorine This post uses affiliate links, see Policies and Disclosures for more information. 

     

    Chlorine itch is the term used for the sensitive itchy skin you sometimes develop after swimming in a chlorinated pool or hot tub. The itch may be caused by a sensitivity or allergy to chlorine… or just plain over exposure to chlorine.

    Luckily there are easy ways to reduce the effects of pool water chemicals (including chlorine) and naturally protect swimmers.

    How Chlorine is Used in the United States

    Pools and hot tubs in the U.S. are treated with chlorine to prevent illnesses caused by germs and bacteria found in water. Municipal water systems are also treated with chlorine, EPA guidelines allow up to 4 ppm of chlorine in drinking water (tap water).

    We are lucky to have a safe water supply in the United States, but it is important to understand the undesirable effects of chlorine in our water as well.

    Why You Should Protect Your Skin from Chlorine

    My kids swim year round for swim team and recreation. I love that they are interested in a sport they can participate in whether they are 5 or 95. But spending several days a week in the pool can wreak havoc!

      1. Swimming in a chlorinated pool means exposure to known skin irritants that can cause skin to become dry and itchy.
      2. Research suggests that chlorine in swimming pools can increase rates of asthma, cancer,  and skin/throat irritation.
      3. When chlorine mixes with water it forms hypochlorite, a bleaching agent that causes fabrics to fade (Ever notice how faded swimsuits get?).

    Chlorine Byproducts

    In addition to direct risks, chlorine reacts with organic matter to form chemicals known as trihalomethanes, commonly called “disinfection byproducts.” These dangerous byproducts (including chloroform) are released when chlorinated water reacts with organic matter from swimmers such as sweat or urine. You can read more about trihalomethanes in the EWG 2013 Tap Water Guide.

    Chlorine pools how to protect swimmers hair and skin, Naturally Protect Swimmers from Chlorine

    How to Naturally Protect Swimmers from Chlorine

    I hate exposing my kids to dangerous substances but love the enjoyment and exercise they get from swimming. What’s a parent to do?

    I’ve decided to reduce chlorine exposure as much as possible and, as Dory might say, “Just keep swimming!”

    Five non-toxic ways to naturally protect swimmers from chlorine:

    1. Wear a swim cap and goggles.
      • A tightly fitting swim cap and pair of goggles prevents the chlorinated water from further reaching the hair and eye area.

       

    2. Get wet before swimming and rinse off afterward.
      • Wetting skin and hair reduces the amount of chlorine you skin and hair can absorb.

       

    3. Create a layer of hair protection.
      • Spray damp hair with an All-Natural Hair Detangler and Protectant (see my easy recipe at end of post).

       

    4. Form a skin barrier.
      • Apply a thin layer of natural oil (i.e. avocado, almond, jojoba, argan, or coconut oil) to skin. This light barrier further prevents the amount of chlorinated water your skin and hair can absorb. Smooth the oil on while skin is damp to protect without becoming a greasy blob.
      • Use a natural balm to protect lips. My kids use my all natural Healing Dry Skin Balm on their lips, knees, elbows and other dry spots.

       

    5. Treat skin, hair and swim gear with a vitamin C solution.
      • Vitamin C naturally neutralizes chlorine! I make After Swim Chlorine Neutralizing Spray. See the full recipe below.

    How to Use Vitamin C to Neutralize Chlorine (Vitamin C Dechlorination)

    Both ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate (two common forms of vitamin C) will neutralize chlorine (neither form of vitamin C is considered a hazardous substance) according to the USDA.

    1. Ascorbic Acid – The chemical reaction of ascorbic acid with chlorine is:

    • C5H5O5CH2OH + HOCL → C5H3O5CH2OH + HCl + H2O
    • Ascorbic acid + Hypochlorous acid → Dehydroascorbic acid + Hydrochloric acid+ water

    2. Sodium Ascorbate – The reaction of sodium ascorbate with chlorine is:

    • C5H5O5CH2ONa + HOCL → C5H3O5CH2OH + NaCl + H2O
    • Sodium ascorbate + Hypochlorous acid → Dehydroascorbic acid + Sodium chloride + water

     

    How to Make After Swim Chlorine Neutralizing Spray

    • Directions: Mix 1/2 tsp sodium ascorbate with 4 ounces of distilled water. Use within 24 hours. (The solution breaks down and looses effectiveness after 24 hours.)
    • Use: Generously spray After Swim Chlorine Neutralizing Spray all over immediately after swimming. The vitamin C neutralizes the chlorine.

    *Tip: Add a teaspoon of sodium ascorbate to an empty 8 oz water bottle and bring it to the pool. After swimming take the bottle to the shower and fill with water, shake to combine then dump over your hair and body.

    Vitamin C Shelf Life

    Both ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate are affordable and have a shelf life of at least one year in a dry form (stored in a cool, dark place). However, once it is mixed into a solution, the vitamin C degrades in a day or two. Mix just enough solution to use each day.

    After Swim Chlorine Neutralizing Spray Cost

    I currently use Source Naturals Vitamin C Sodium Ascorbate Crystals to make my after swim spray. It cost around $15.00 for 16 oz (approximately 189 days of After Swim Chlorine Neutralizing Spray at $0.08 a day). A similar natural product costs $11.95 for 6 ounces (about 12 days of spray).

    Chlorine pools how to protect swimmers hair and skin, Naturally Protect Swimmers from Chlorine

    Chlorine Removing Post Swim Routine

    We follow a simple spray and shower routine to naturally protect ourselves from chlorine damage.

    • After swimming spray off with After Swim Chlorine Neutralizing Spray (recipe above) then change and come home to bathe.

    I also use a few simple tools to remove chlorine from our water at home:

    • Carbon water filters in all of our home showers to remove chlorine.
      • These screw on shower attachments cost around $30.00 and use $12.00 replaceable filters that last for up to 6 months. (We have been very happy with the results. Even my father, who is allergic to chlorine, was able to shower without developing itchy skin.)
      • Bonus, the filters help keep my shower mold & mildew free and I have to do less scrubbing when cleaning!
      • The shower attachments screw on with no special tools, we even take them with us when we move.
    • For extra protection: Mix vitamin C into shampoo or body wash to neutralize chlorine or add a few teaspoons of vitamin C to the bathtub.
    • You can also use Vitamin C tablets in your bathtub.

    Protecting Swim Gear

    This routine has helped reduce the amount of fading and breakdown in our swim suits:

    • Rinse swim suits in a bucket of water with a teaspoon of sodium ascorbate after each use.
    • Pour the whole bucketful (water, suits, and all) into the washing machine, add a scoop of non-toxic detergent, run the washer on the delicate cycle, then hang suits to dry.
      • When I’m feeling lazy I toss the suits into the washer with a few teaspoons of sodium ascorbate and detergent then run the delicate cycle.

    Chlorine itch, Chlorine pools, how to protect swimmers hair and skin, Naturally Protect Swimmers from Chlorine

    Protecting Hair From Chlorine

    You can protect your hair from chlorine three ways:

    1. Wet hair before each swim. Wet hair can absorb less pool water.
    2. Apply a natural product that helps prevent chlorine absorption.
    3. Wear a tight swim cap.

    All-Natural Hair Detangler and Protectant Recipes

    1. DIY Hair Detangler and Protectant with Essential Oils
    • 1 Tbsp Vegetable Glycerin
    • 1/2 cup Distilled Water
    • 3 drops Argan Oil
    • For Rosemary Mint add: 5 drops Peppermint Essential Oil and 5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
    • For Fresh and Floral add: 5 drops Rose Absolute Essential Oil and 3 drops Ylang-Ylang or Lavender Essential Oil

    Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle.  Shake to combine and shake again before applying. Use a few light sprays as a detangling spray after washing or apply generously to damp hair before swimming to protect hair.

    2. Easy Hair Detangler and Protectant

    Combine 1 oz of natural conditioner  (use your favorite non-toxic conditioner) with 8 oz of distilled water. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.  Shake to combine. Use a few light sprays as a detangling spray after washing or apply generously to damp hair before swimming to protect hair.

     

    I hope these tips and tricks help you naturally protect your hair, skin, and gear so you can keep swimming!

     

    Like my natural beauty and body care tips? Sign up for my free newsletter and never miss a thing.

    BrenDId

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Helen R

      June 07, 2022 at 1:19 am

      Hi I am going on holiday to Turkey in a few weeks obviously it will be very hot. I became sensitive to chlorine a few years back, due to Covid we have not been away for the last couple of years, but my previous holidays have been spoilt by the horrible itchy rash that spreads over my body. Is there anything I can do before going away to help? I have read to shower before and after swimming in the pool, but then a little confused regarding the Vitamin C spray. Do I shower, spray then shower again? then do I need to re-apply sun cream? or do I just shower each time I dip which could be several times a day and then apply vitamin C spray at the end of the day?

      Reply
      • Bren

        September 28, 2022 at 3:48 pm

        We just spray, dry, and get dressed! I would experiment and see what works best for your skin.

        Reply
    2. Jennifer DuPoux

      June 30, 2021 at 10:12 am

      Can you leave the spray on & not shower until you get home in a couple hours? My boys go to summer camp & swim at camp. There’s no time to shower.

      Reply
      • Bren

        July 20, 2021 at 9:48 am

        Yes, you can shower later. I would recommend doing a spot test on a small spot of skin just to be sure as all kids are different in their skin sensitivities.

        Reply
    3. Veronica

      April 21, 2021 at 11:24 pm

      Just curious – for the hair spray recipe… does it need to be a glass bottle or will plastic work ok? Does it react to plastic in some way? Also, does the shower filter you recommend also filter out fluoride and other toxins like phthalates and heavy metals?

      Thank you so much, by the way, for taking the time to create this website and share these healthful useful tips!! May God bless you richly 🙂

      Reply
      • Bren

        April 22, 2021 at 11:46 am

        Veronica, I have not had trouble with the spray reacting to plastic when I’ve used a plastic bottle with my kiddos. The shower filter I use says, “Help reduce chlorine and its vapors, damaging chemicals, heavy metals, minerals and impurities from your shower water, reduce exposure to radioactive Iodane, Radon and Hydrogen Sulfide, Discourage the growth of mold, mildew and algae, Improve water’s pH Balance.” It does not specifically mention fluoride and phthalates. I’d love a whole home water filter but right now we’re making due with the more affordable version. Hope this helps!

        Reply
    4. AA

      April 18, 2021 at 6:24 am

      Hi Bren, how much Vitamin C should I add into my shampoo and body wash? I bring 50ml bottle of each when I go swimming.

      Reply
      • Bren

        April 20, 2021 at 7:26 am

        I don’t usually mix the vitamin C with my shampoo and body wash so you’ll have to do a little experimenting to see the results. I would start testing a small travel size bottle of each product, add 1/4 tsp of vitamin c, see how you like the results, and then increase or decrease the vitamin c powder. Hope this helps!

        Reply
    5. JB

      February 27, 2021 at 11:28 am

      Hi Bren…I swim 2 hours every week day and burn and itch terribly when I get home. I’ve tried rubbing down with coconut oil before I swim and just rinse off without soap when I get out of the pool but it doesn’t help. If I try the mix you mentioned should I spray it on right after my swim and how long should I leave it on before I rinse off?
      Thanks
      JB

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 07, 2021 at 2:02 pm

        I would spray it on right after you swim. The reaction with chlorine is immediate so you shouldn’t have to leave it on too long, just a few minutes is what we do!

        Reply
      • Subhadra Hemphill

        March 11, 2021 at 2:06 pm

        I use raw sesame oil before swimming, which works good.

        Reply
    6. Michael Harper

      December 16, 2020 at 3:19 am

      The cancer risk you mentioned is highly speculative and no study has concluded chlorinated swimming pools cause cancer.

      Good tips here though, especially getting wet before going in

      Reply
      • Veronica

        April 21, 2021 at 11:18 pm

        True, but it’s pretty much common sense, eh?

        Reply
    7. Jeannine

      March 11, 2020 at 7:27 am

      Hi. Thanks for posting this. I bought the wrong Vitamin C powder and came home with ascorbic acid. Can I use this? What difference will it make?

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 17, 2020 at 11:18 am

        Jeannine, I’ve never made it with ascorbic acid but according to the science (both neutralize chlorine), it should work. Let me know if you try!

        Reply
    8. Stefanie

      February 20, 2020 at 4:45 pm

      Do you rinse the vitamin C spray off after it sits for a minute before putting clothes on??

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 03, 2020 at 10:53 am

        My kids rinse it off pretty quickly (they’re impatient). You can experiment and see what works for you.

        Reply
    9. Michele

      February 18, 2020 at 9:06 am

      Thank you very much for this truly helpful information. To this end, while I do spray down completely and shower after swimming, is there any benefit to spraying again lightly after showering- as I am still experiencing some slight residual itch. I thank you for any advice or insight you may have.

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 03, 2020 at 10:55 am

        It may help as there is chlorine in city water…. as you’re getting a second dose when showering.

        Reply
    10. jessica

      February 01, 2020 at 2:36 pm

      hello!
      I have a saltwater pool. I get extremely itchy afterwards for a couple days. will this wash help ?

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 03, 2020 at 10:45 am

        Unfortunately, it only helps with chlorine, not salt.

        Reply
      • Shirley Briggs

        May 25, 2020 at 8:59 am

        No experience or knowledge of saltwater pools, but could it be a PH imbalance? I think too high alkanity can cause an issue with itchy skin and eyes – or I may have remembered that wrong!

        Reply
    11. Richard

      December 15, 2019 at 6:15 am

      I learned from a friend about vitamin C wash after swimming in a chlorinated pool, It really works great and I don’t have to give up the great exercise I get at the Y’s warm water pool. I’m 73 and water exercise saves my knees and keeps me mobile.

      Reply
      • Bren

        December 17, 2019 at 8:34 am

        It works great, doesn’t it?!?!

        Reply
    12. bruce graham

      November 04, 2019 at 10:49 pm

      very very helpful information. thanks so much

      Reply
    13. fab

      September 06, 2019 at 12:30 am

      Hi Bren,

      Can i put this all over my body including nether regions and face?
      Also should I apply this right after I get out of pool, leave it on, then shower at home?

      Reply
      • Bren

        September 30, 2019 at 2:10 pm

        I would spot test before using on tender areas! I apply right after pool then us a vitamin c filter in the shower at home.

        Reply
    14. Sarah

      July 24, 2019 at 11:47 am

      Thank you so much for all the great tips!
      Just wondering when adding the sodium ascorbate vit C compound to shampoo and body wash, how much do you put in to say a full bottle?

      Reply
      • Bren

        September 30, 2019 at 3:56 pm

        I just add a sprinkle to the shampoo in my hand so it doesn’t react in the bottle.

        Reply
    15. Melissa

      June 14, 2019 at 1:46 am

      What do if my kiddo is already wearing sunscreen (ThinkBaby)? Do I still spray the vitC on top of that after swimming or do I need to wash off the sunscreen first? If I got her skin wet prior to chlorine exposure, should I wet it before or after I apply the sunscreen?

      Reply
      • Bren

        June 14, 2019 at 7:09 am

        Melissa, I would apply the sunscreen as directed (usually to dry skin). It will form a barrier. I would use the vitamin C spray when you are done swimming for the day.

        Reply
        • Deepta

          August 22, 2019 at 9:51 am

          Bren, a very informative post! I already got Sodium ascorbate crystals after reading about this brilliantly simple method :). Could you clarify one thing for me- does the water need to be distilled or will it work with the regular shower water at the pool? Thank you!

          -Deepta

          Reply
          • Bren

            September 30, 2019 at 2:42 pm

            Distilled water will keep the vitamin c from reacting with any chlorine in the tap water before you use it but either will work!

            Reply
    16. Joel

      April 11, 2019 at 9:25 pm

      My top of my feet burn after being in chlorinated pool …after 5 minutes. What elce can I do besides pre washing, and using vaseline as a layer of protection….the itch or burn is very painful…going to try some vitamin E capsules for the after burn …

      Reply
      • Bren

        April 16, 2019 at 9:06 am

        I would suggest the vitamin c spray and a doctor visit to rule out a chlorine allergy!

        Reply
    17. Joan

      March 16, 2019 at 9:10 am

      Ascorbic acid is about half the price of sodium ascorbate. Will it work as well?

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 18, 2019 at 10:33 am

        Both ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate are supposed to do the same thing, BUT I have only used sodium ascorbate so I can’t personally promise equal results with ascorbic acid. Let me know if you try! -Bren

        Reply
    18. roberta gould

      February 25, 2019 at 2:10 pm

      This is great BUT PLEASE CLARIFY…SINCE I SHOIWER IMMEDIATELY AFTER SWIMMING, SHOULD I APPLY THE VITAMEN CA SOLUTION YOU DESCRIBE AHD WHICH I MAKE BEFORE I GET IN THE SHOWER OF AFTER…AS SHOWER IS ENDIED

      Reply
      • Bren

        February 25, 2019 at 2:56 pm

        Your choice. I spray my kids before they shower. I make the spray before we head to the pool.

        Reply
    19. SHEILA

      February 07, 2019 at 7:05 am

      Bren, i’m so happy I discovered your website! I’m going to try using the suggested prepping the body before and after enjoying daily chlorinated pool exercises! 🚿Thank you thank you thank you

      Reply
      • Bren

        February 08, 2019 at 2:45 pm

        Thanks Sheila! Hope it helps!

        Reply
    20. Chloe

      November 25, 2018 at 1:58 am

      Hi Bren! I’m a swimmer and recently developed chloring rash. Could i use plain vitamin c tablets instead of sodium ascorbate? Also do you have any tips on relieving the itch? Thank you

      Reply
      • Bren

        November 26, 2018 at 9:47 am

        I would read the tablets to see what they are made from… both ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate will neutralize chlorine. You can then dissolve the tablets in water to make the solution. To relieve the itch you could try a moisturizing bath with oatmeal or try using a natural oil as lotion. I would try the tips for removing chlorine from your shower/bath water too. Good luck!

        Reply
    21. Michele

      October 30, 2018 at 8:03 am

      Any suggestions for protecting our girly parts from chlorine. I go to aqua fit classes a few times a week. It’s a better option for me for my knees. I too get itchy and will try your spray. My doctor explained it as swimming with your mouth open with respect to our girly parts and wondered if there was a way to protect that region. I’ve tried using coconut oil and wondered if that would do anything.

      Reply
      • Bren

        October 30, 2018 at 9:17 am

        I’m not sure about that one, sorry!

        Reply
    22. Emily

      October 26, 2018 at 1:32 pm

      Hi… I’m confused about the suggestion to use natural products as a protection on your skin and hair. Aren’t the nasty byproducts created when chlorine comes in contact with organic materials? So wouldn’t applying organic/natural products to your hair and skin before swimming actually make the situation more toxic? I might be missing something, so please explain. Thanks!

      Reply
      • Bren

        October 29, 2018 at 9:40 am

        Emily, the natural products are used to create a barrier so the by products are not coming into direct contact with your skin.

        Reply
    23. Aurora

      July 23, 2018 at 1:19 pm

      Vitamin Shoppe has the powder calcium ascorbate. Is this the same as sodium ascorbate?

      Reply
      • Bren

        July 25, 2018 at 4:13 pm

        It is my understanding that calcium ascorbate is a combination of calcium and ascorbic acid. Sodium ascorbate is a combination of sodium and ascorbic acid. I would check with your vitamin seller to see if they can be used the same way. I have only used the Sodium Ascorbate.

        Reply
        • aurora

          July 29, 2018 at 10:52 am

          thank you, I will

          Reply
          • Liz

            April 27, 2019 at 9:17 pm

            I can only find calcium ascorbate as well when I’ve looked for powdered vitamin C. Did you have any luck with it?

            Reply
    24. Wilfredo

      May 12, 2018 at 12:07 pm

      Hi-
      My name is wilfredo, first of it i’ll began by saying, I have 2 kids swimming 3 times per week minimum, 1 an-half hrs every time, we belong to a swim team for the last 7 years, and I have been swimming for the last 3 years in a 25 meter pool and sometimes a 50 meters for 2 time per week each is 1 hrs, all this pools are full of chlorine, but we love the sport, i also have a whole house filtration system to remove the chlorine and fluoride.

      I have tried every shampoo and nothing works,
      I take a long shower after swimming for one hour , once my skin is dry, i have a very bad smell to chlorine, even the next day, I worry about my kids how bad it could be,
      In the future,
      The smell never goes away from swimming gear, desperately looking for a solution I came to this site! I am happy that I am about to join you guys!

      Question for anyone of you?

      After you guys have try this, is there more effective method to use this or mix?
      Have anyone have try to mix
      The (Sodium Ascorbate Powder with coconut oil or similar) or Is that a bad idea?

      Your feed back is very important.
      Thank you!

      Reply
      • Bren

        May 15, 2018 at 8:54 am

        Hi Wilfredo! I understand the chlorine smell issue. I would try the Sodium Ascorbate Powder mixed with water after you swim. You can mix it in a spray bottle or add a few spoonfuls to a bath so you can wash is chlorine free water. I think you will see a big reduction in chlorine smell after a few days. Good luck!

        Reply
        • Wilfredo Villanueva

          June 10, 2018 at 7:32 am

          Hello Bren!
          Thank you for the reply, I am pitting 2 full spoons of sodium ascorbate on a plastic bottle when kids come out of the pool they fill in with water giving a good shake,-and pore in the head down and make sure they cover the entire body, WORKS EXCELENT, I Swim 2 days per week and I am using it.

          Thank you!

          Reply
          • Bren

            June 19, 2018 at 10:38 am

            🙂

            Reply
    25. Enrique

      March 21, 2018 at 10:16 pm

      Thank you so much for this information! It works incredibly well, from the first use you can already tell the difference! You saved my skin and my swimming! <3

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 26, 2018 at 10:16 am

        I’m so happy to hear that you are having great results, Enrique!

        Reply
    26. Secilia Marino

      January 25, 2018 at 7:53 pm

      Looking forward to using the vit. C spray/rinse
      My questions is: about wetting skin before pool AND using oil before? In what order? Wet then oil self? oil self then wet before entering pool?
      Before going in pool, I always wet hair, add a tiny bit of “leave in conditioner” and put a swim cap on. I also often cover at least my face and neck with coconut oil, sometimes my whole body when I have time.
      I only rinse rinse rinse afterwards. And use conditioner on hair. When I shampooed and soaped every time, my skin and hair suffered.
      I swim most days 35 min in water, and always itch, it is getting worse, I am getting older and more sensitive, or they are using more stuff in water. When water is warmer, the itch is worse.
      Looking forward to making and using Vit C and investigating the shower filter.

      Reply
      • Bren

        January 29, 2018 at 1:27 pm

        I would get wet and then apply the oil. A thinner oil like almond or avocado oil is easier to apply when damp.

        Reply
    27. Roberta Hubbard

      October 23, 2017 at 9:26 am

      Thank you so much for this great article, it is just where I am at. I was just diagnosed with hyshimoto thyroid disease, and now swimming might have to go. But I want t protect my lungs from breathing the chlorine as well. Thanks for this info, just what the doctor ordered. 🙂

      Reply
      • Bren

        October 24, 2017 at 11:04 am

        I’m so glad you found it helpful, Roberta!

        Reply
    28. Terry

      October 14, 2017 at 12:42 am

      1. Ascorbic Acid – The chemical reaction of ascorbic acid with chlorine is:

      C5H5O5CH2OH + HOCL → C5H3O5CH2OH + HCl + H2O
      Ascorbic acid + Hypochlorous acid → Dehydroascorbic acid + Hydrochloric acid+ water

      Hydrochloric Acid???!!! That can’t be good. I see you use Sodium Ascorbate in your recipe, but don’t explicitly state whether or not Ascorbic Acid Should or shouldn’t be used. I would think this is a bad option with the byproduct of Hydrochloric Acid… no?

      Reply
      • Bren

        October 14, 2017 at 2:32 pm

        You definitely use the one you feel comfortable with. I use Sodium Ascorbate.

        Reply
    29. Cynthia

      October 08, 2017 at 9:04 pm

      Do you wash the swimsuits every day they swim?

      We did learn the hard way that you need to rinse out clothing that you spray with the C or it can stain it. So we make sure to rinse off the skin too just in case it leaves an issue.
      ‘

      Reply
      • Bren

        October 09, 2017 at 7:08 pm

        Yes, I wash them almost every time they swim using cold water and a tiny big of detergent then hang to dry. It helps with fading and seems to make the suits last longer.

        Reply
    30. raymond

      September 19, 2017 at 11:42 am

      Hi Bren,

      You provided directions on how to make an after swim chlorine neutralizing spray using sodium ascorbate, but how much ascorbic acid would you use if one cannot find sodium ascorbate?

      Reply
      • Bren

        September 19, 2017 at 9:48 pm

        I would use an equal amount. Let me know how it works for you.

        Reply
    31. Trinity's Aunt

      August 14, 2017 at 11:51 am

      My niece was diagnosed with a reaction to chlorine. She says her skin still itches even after the use of cream prescription. Any helpful hints on what to use to help with her discomfort?

      Reply
      • Bren

        August 16, 2017 at 7:53 am

        My dad is allergic to chlorine so he tries to avoid it: no pools, etc. If bathing in chlorine treated water try adding sodium ascorbate to each bath (I use use Source Naturals Vitamin C Sodium Ascorbate Crystals) and/or use a filter on the shower head (I use these carbon water filters in all of our home showers to remove chlorine).

        Reply
    32. Carol

      June 15, 2017 at 10:27 am

      If the kids shower (shampoo, soap & water, not just a rinse) at the pool immediately after swimming, is the post-swimming spray still necessary, or just use the sodium ascorbate rinse in the shower, then shower as usual? Thanks!

      Reply
      • Bren

        June 15, 2017 at 11:49 am

        I like to use the sodium ascorbate rinse in the shower (either before or after they shower) to neutralize the chlorine because 1) the shower water also contains chlorine and 2) a shower alone never seems to get rid of all the chlorine smell in thieh hair/swim suits. Thanks for the great question!

        Reply
    33. Janie Harvet

      March 04, 2017 at 7:16 pm

      Can you leave the vitamin c spray on are should you bathe it off?

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 04, 2017 at 8:35 pm

        You can leave it on. We generally shower afterward since we have just been in the pool.

        Reply
        • Janie Harvey

          March 06, 2017 at 5:22 pm

          I shower first and after spray on the vitamin c and leave it on. I think it might be turning my hair and fingernails yellow. Have you heard of this?

          Reply
          • Bren

            March 06, 2017 at 5:28 pm

            I have not heard of this, you could try using a shower filter that removes chlorine if your concern is chlorine in the shower water. They are affordable, we use them in all our showers.

            Reply
    34. Linda

      December 31, 2016 at 10:22 am

      6 grams of L-Ascorbic acid powder in a teaspoon

      i bring 1 tsp of vitamin c powder in an empty water bottle to the shower, fill with hot water while I’m rinsing, dump most of it through my hair and gear, shampoo with a jr ligget shampoo bar, then dump the rest like an apple cider vinegar rinse without the stink to close my cuticle and prevent frizz. no conditioner needed. Chlroine gets deneutralized on contact so there’s no waiting around- rinse it out. Same for the shampoo bar, the jr ligget says wash and rinse. (I used to double wash, double condition, leave in, detangle, etc). I put a bit of the shea butter concoction described below in from the ears down onto damp towel dried hair.

      Longest hair and fastest showers in my life.

      I was doing the wait till you get home to shower again and got fungus from being wet all day – thick hair

      also straight coconut oil works as a deodorant – who knew?

      Got rid of all of the lotion in the house, using a 5 Tbsp shea butter mixture beat for 10 mins with 1 tsp argon oil, 1 tsp jojoba, 1 tsp coconut and 1 tsp olive
      works for the hair, face, lips, feet
      fantastic
      the oils and whipping make shea butter spreadable, tried cocoa butter and couldn’t take the smell

      hope this helps someone, swimming makes life better- friends makes life worth it

      Reply
      • Bren

        December 31, 2016 at 1:08 pm

        Thanks for the great tips, Linda! It takes a village to be a swimmer. 🙁 I can’t wait to try the shea butter mixture. I agree, cocoa butter smell is too strong for me too. Have you tried mango butter? It has even less smell than shea butter. I love it!

        Reply
    35. Mark

      June 06, 2016 at 7:04 am

      Thanks Bren! I used a cooling pool that had an abundance of chlorine in it, much to my dismay. I started itching that night and it continued into the next day. I found your article and used the Vitamin C crystals in water and it gave me a lot of relief. I think my skin was already burned a bit from the chlorine, so it took until that evening for the itching to subside. Thanks again.

      Reply
      • Bren

        June 06, 2016 at 4:43 pm

        I’m so glad it helped, Mark!

        Reply
    36. Yaoyao Fu

      April 18, 2016 at 8:25 pm

      Great DIY! As an avid swimmer, chlorine really bothers me. Thanks for the creative idea! I shared it to my fb as well. 🙂

      Reply
    37. Ceci

      April 02, 2016 at 6:12 pm

      Great information! As an Arizona mom, being in the pool in the summer is given for my kids. I’ve always hated the massive chlorine exposure, but your tips & recipes will help! I’m going to give them a try! Would you mind if I “report back” later this summer with a post on my blog? I would definitely link back to this post! Thanks so much!

      Reply
      • Bren

        April 04, 2016 at 12:27 pm

        Thanka Ceci! I’d love to hear back on your results!

        Reply
    38. sarahkempson

      January 11, 2016 at 9:29 am

      Thank you Bren for this post (I have not been able to browse through your webpage much yet, but it seems to be very helpful). In regards to swimming (as I have grown to love the sport & exercise over the last 2-3 years), I have really sensitive skin (still in the process of trying to find out if I have an autoimmune disorder, or just certain environmental allergies). My question is, you mention the need to use the Chlorine Neutralizing Spray within 24 hours. Have you found this to be the case? For what reason? Thank you.

      Reply
      • sarahkempson

        January 11, 2016 at 9:31 am

        lol – apologies Bren, I didn’t read other posts until after I posted my question. My question was answered in the comment above by dbobby0515. Thank you. Keep up the good work!

        Reply
        • Bren

          January 11, 2016 at 1:00 pm

          Glad you found your answer, Sarah! Thanks for stopping by the blog!

          Reply
    39. dbobby0515

      January 10, 2016 at 6:35 pm

      Thanks so much for your blog! Ive recently joined the Y and attend water aerobics about 3-4 times a week. I hate the smell and affect of chlorine on my skin and hair! I notice your caution about using the body spray within 24 hours of mixing. What about your bonus recipes for the hair (detangling)? Do they need to be mixed on an “as used” basis? Or is there a bit of shelf life?

      Again, thanks so much!

      Reply
      • Bren

        January 10, 2016 at 9:05 pm

        The detangler/hair protector last for quite some time (several months). I like to mix the Vitamin c in short periods because it is more reactive.

        Reply
    40. debbie

      December 03, 2015 at 11:56 am

      Question,I now know dangers of chlorine pool. What about salt water pools. A lot of pools are going this way. I would like t o know because we are think of changing our chlorine pool over to salt water…I don’t want to go to tHat expense if it isn’t any better for us… thank you so much!!!!
      Debbie

      Reply
      • Bren

        December 03, 2015 at 1:10 pm

        Debbie, I don’t know much about salt water pools. Here are some articles that might help: Naturally Savvy and Livestrong. Hope this helps! -Bren

        Reply
    41. Fran

      September 16, 2015 at 11:25 am

      is the oil best applied to damp or dry hair? I’ve read contrasting suggestions on the internet. Not sure what is best.

      Reply
      • Bren

        September 16, 2015 at 12:41 pm

        Fran, I apply it to dry hair. I would try it both ways and see what works best for your hair.

        Reply
    42. Lisa

      April 27, 2015 at 9:57 am

      My daughter is also a swimmer but has terrible sinus problems from chlorine. Any suggestions for a natural remedy to help?? Thanks! Love your site!!

      Reply
      • Bren

        April 28, 2015 at 8:01 am

        Lisa, I would try to keep as much chlorine out of her nose as possible, those membranes are tender! I think a nose clip could help (but would be hard for a competitive swimmer to wear). Maybe a barrier cream/balm to the inside of the nose before swimming and a rinse with a nettie pot/saline immediately after getting out of the pool? My Non-Petroleum Jelly works well to coat the inside of a nose. I use it on my kiddo who is prone to bloody noses to keep her sinuses from drying out in the pool. Some people also supplement their diet with vitamin C, as they believe it helps rid their bodies of chlorine (I am not a doctor, this is not medical advice…. just one mom repeating info I have heard to another mom!) Also you may want to read up on nettle tea, it seems to help with sinus problems. Hope this helps!

        Reply
        • Janel

          December 30, 2016 at 9:39 am

          My daughter has the same problem. Have you tried to use AFTER SWIM CHLORINE NEUTRALIZING SPRAY inside the nose?
          Thanks a lot! I really enjoyed reading these great tips.

          Reply
          • Bren

            December 30, 2016 at 5:19 pm

            I have not used it in the nose, I would suggest saline spray first. Thanks for the lovely compliment!

            Reply
    43. Jenny

      March 03, 2015 at 8:59 am

      Can you tell me where the best place to buy Argan oil and vegetable glycerin is? And essential oils? We just bought a house with a pool a few months ago and I want to try these things to limit our exposure to chlorine. Thank you so much for all of these tips!! I found your site off of pinterest & I’m hooked!!

      Reply
      • Bren

        March 03, 2015 at 9:31 am

        I order a lot of my products from Amazon Prime.

        Reply
    44. Nana

      February 20, 2015 at 10:16 am

      I love your research, the fact that you include the chemical formulae, and other very useful scientific information. Thank you for doing this for me personally. I have avoided chlorinated pools and hot tubs because of a mild allergy to chlorine and I believe you have given me exactly what I need.

      Reply
      • Bren

        February 20, 2015 at 10:30 am

        Thanks! My dad is allergic to chlorine too, no fun! The vitamin C has worked great for us. I hope it helps you too. You should definitely check out the shower filter if you have city water, it can be more chlorinated than pools!

        Reply
    45. Brandi @ penguinsinpink.com

      February 19, 2015 at 10:05 pm

      these are great tips. Thanks for linking up to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Party. I have pinned your post to the Bloggers Brags Broad.

      Reply
      • Bren

        February 20, 2015 at 10:31 am

        Thanks Brandi! I appreciate the support!!

        Reply
        • Loretta

          January 01, 2018 at 12:16 am

          Hi Bren! I suspect my itching is coming from chlorine. I want to try your vitamin c formula, but where do you get that stuff? Also, do you have to leave it on for a certain amount of time before showering? I usually shower at the pool. Thanks for these suggestions.

          Reply
          • Bren

            January 04, 2018 at 4:44 pm

            Loretta, you can buy both ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate (two common forms of vitamin C) on Amazon or at a local health food store. I buy mine on Amazon for convenience. There are links in the post above. Good luck!

            Reply

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