Swimming, Sea Water and Chlorine

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Swimming is an excellent, low-impact form of exercise for people with rosacea, but the water environment—whether a chlorinated pool or the salty sea—can pose challenges for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.

Is sea water beneficial?

Sea water is probably not beneficial but it can be less irritating then swimming pools. Nevertheless, the high salt content can be dehydrating. If you swim in the sea, it's crucial to rinse your face with fresh water and apply moisturiser immediately after.

How to protect skin in pools?

Chlorine is a harsh chemical that can strip the skin's protective barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and potential flares. Before swimming, apply a thin layer of a simple, occlusive moisturiser to your face. This creates a physical barrier between your skin and the chlorinated water. As with sea swimming, rinse your face with clean water and reapply your regular moisturiser as soon as you get out of the pool.

Related articles

• Exercise Without Flushing
• A Simple Rosacea-Safe Skincare Routine
• Moisturisers That Don’t Sting Sensitive Skin

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.