Swim Spray - How We Handle Chlorine Exposure
How We Handle Chlorine Exposure
We're all about soaking up summer—but swimming in chlorine pools comes with some real concerns, especially for kids. Chlorine can disrupt the skin's microbiome, dry out hair and skin, and expose little bodies to unnecessary chemicals. While we don't avoid chlorinated pools entirely, we do take steps to reduce exposure before, during, and after every swim.
Here's our full routine:
🌞 Before You Get In: Sunscreen
Before anyone jumps in the pool, we apply a clean, mineral sunscreen. This creates a physical barrier on the skin that not only protects from UV rays but also helps limit how much chlorine is directly absorbed through the skin. It's a simple first line of defense that pays off every time.
💦 Neutralize Chlorine: Swim Spray
If there's a chance to rinse off after swimming—great, do it! But let's be real: sometimes you're racing home from swim class or there's no shower nearby. That's where our go-to swim sprays come in.
🧴 Option 1: Rowe Casa Organics Swim Spray
This is a super convenient, clean option we love. It helps neutralize chlorine and protect the skin—no rinsing required (but still helpful if you can!). We use it both before getting in and after getting out.
🧪 Option 2: DIY Swim Spray to Neutralize Chlorine
Want to make your own? It's easier than you think. Here's our simple, effective formula:
Ingredients:
1 tsp Vitamin C Powder (Sodium Ascorbate or Ascorbic Acid) → Neutralizes chlorine and chloramines on skin and hair
1 cup Filtered Water → Use distilled or reverse osmosis water
1 tbsp Aloe Vera Juice (optional) → Soothes and hydrates skin, helps detangle hair
1 tsp Vegetable Glycerin or Fractionated Coconut Oil (optional) → Adds moisture and a protective barrier
Instructions:
Add 1 tsp vitamin C powder to 1 cup filtered water in a glass or BPA-free 8 oz spray bottle.
Shake until dissolved.
Add aloe juice and glycerin or oil, if using.
Shake well before each use.
Please note the homemade swim spray lasts about 1–2 weeks.
How to Use Swim Spray:
Before swimming: Lightly mist hair and body to create a protective barrier.
After swimming: Spray generously over wet or dry skin and hair. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse if possible. If not, you can leave it on and rinse later—it's still effective.
🚿 After Swimming: Wash It Off
Once you're out of the pool, the next step is getting that chlorine off the hair and skin as thoroughly as possible. We love:
🧴 Babo Botanicals Swim & Sport Citrus Mint & Passion Fruit Shampoo & Wash
This plant-based shampoo and body wash is specifically formulated to clarify hair and skin after exposure to chlorine, minerals, and salt. It's dermatologist tested, gentle enough for kids, and smells amazing. We use it head to toe right after swimming—it makes a noticeable difference in how our hair and skin feel compared to using a regular wash.
💊 Internal Support: Liquid Vitamin C with Glutathione
One of our most important (and often overlooked) tools is what we do inside the body. Glutathione is one of the body's master antioxidants and plays a key role in detoxifying chlorine and chloramines that have been absorbed. We always make sure to give this after swim days.
These small steps add up to make a real difference in reducing our chlorine load—without giving up the joy of swimming all summer long. Because pool days aren't going anywhere, and they shouldn't have to. Always check with your doctor on supplements:)