Posted on by Crushing Iron

Triathlon Training: Effects of Chlorine

I have a few questions for you experts (or self reflecting types) on pool swimming.  What are the effects of chlorine?  It gets in my head a little because I’m well aware that Skin is the body’s biggest organ.

I try to get a good soap shower afterwards, but can often smell the the chemicals late into the night.  Is there a special soap/shampoo I should be using?  Has anyone felt like they’ve experienced chlorine detox during the day?  Good swim caps?  Pre-swim body apps?  Any other thoughts on this topic?

Edit: I just found this link from Lance’s old operation – http://www.livestrong.com/article/196874-long-term-effects-of-chlorinated-water-on-the-skin/

5 Replies to “Triathlon Training: Effects of Chlorine”

  1. I don’t think there is anything you can do. The smell of chlorine didn’t leave me until I retired. No idea on the long term affects… hope there aren’t any or I’m in big trouble!!!

  2. As triathletes, chlorine is a part of our essence. Can damn near substitute it for bad cologne.

    Let me know if a solution is found. I usually just rinse off and then try to shower with soap and water asap. Usually get dry skin and dry hair when i spend a lot of time in the pool though.

  3. Being in a pool so much I often find all my body hair become brittle and felt terrible. Not too long ago I began searching for a magical soap to soften the hair and remoisturize. I discovered cheap Suave Daily Clarifying shampoo and conditioner is one of the only things that leave my hair feeling normal in all the spots I have hair. Granted I take 2-3 showers a day, swim in chlorinated water, soak in clorinated hot tub or both multiple times a day. Best thing is they cost around 2 bucks a piece in large size bottles(a week or twos worth) from Walmart. I use these as body soap as well. Do not know what to do about the smell.

  4. Oh man, I definitely reek of chlorine! I do a quick body rinse both before and after I swim, plus I take a “real shower” right after, but I can’t escape the smell for at least 24 hours. Honestly, I’ve just accepted it … and use a lot more deodorant and perfume. 😉

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