For many Australians, summer means long days at the beach or by the pool. While swimming is wonderful for health and wellbeing, it can be tough on sensitive skin. Saltwater and chlorine often leave the skin feeling tight, dry, itchy or flushed, and for some people they can trigger flare ups of existing sensitivity.

If your skin feels uncomfortable after a swim, you are not alone. The good news is that with the right routine and support, you can enjoy the water while still taking care of your skin barrier.

At Vitality Laser Skin, our dermal clinicians work with many clients whose skin reacts to the ocean, pools or even their post swim routine. This guide shares practical, evidence-based steps to help you protect, calm and care for sensitive skin throughout the swimming season.

How Saltwater and Chlorine Affect Sensitive Skin

Understanding what is happening on the skin makes it easier to manage.

Saltwater

Saltwater is naturally drawing. When highly concentrated, it can pull moisture out of the skin and disrupt the barrier. For some people, a short dip can feel refreshing, but long or repeated exposure may lead to:

• Tightness and dryness
• Rough or flaky patches
• Stinging in already irritated areas
• Exacerbation of barrier issues

Chlorine

Chlorine is used to keep pools clean, but it is also a chemical irritant. It can:

• Strip natural oils from the skin
• Increase dryness and itchiness
• Trigger redness and sensitivity
• Affect people with already compromised skin more strongly

When you combine UV exposure, heat, sunscreen, salt or chlorine, and frequent towel drying, the skin barrier has a lot to cope with.

Signs Your Skin Is Reacting to Swimming

You may notice:

• Tightness or discomfort after drying off
• Red patches that feel warm or sting
• Flaky or rough texture
• Increased itching on the body or face
• A burning sensation when applying products

If this sounds familiar, it is a sign your barrier needs some extra care and protection.

Before You Swim: Protect the Barrier

Small steps before you get in the water can make a big difference.

1. Apply a Gentle, Fragrance-Free Moisturiser

A light layer of a barrier-supporting moisturiser on the face and body can create a protective cushion between your skin and the water. Look for:

• Ceramides
• Niacinamide
• Glycerin
• Squalane

Avoid heavy fragrances or potential irritants, particularly if your skin is already reactive.

2. Choose a Suitable SPF

Daily SPF is essential, especially around water where UV reflects from the surface.

For sensitive skin:

• Choose a gentle, broad spectrum SPF 50
• Look for formulas labelled as suitable for sensitive skin
• Avoid heavy fragrance and potential irritants

Apply generously at least 20 minutes before swimming and reapply as directed.

3. Rinse Off If Possible

If there is a shower at the pool or beach, a quick rinse before you swim can help reduce the amount of sweat, product and environmental build up that mixes with chlorine or salt.

After You Swim: Reset and Replenish

Your post swim routine is just as important as what you do before.

1. Rinse Skin Thoroughly

As soon as you can, rinse off saltwater or pool water with cool to lukewarm water. This helps remove:

• Chlorine residue
• Salt crystals
• Sand and environmental debris

Avoid very hot showers, which can further dry and irritate sensitive skin.

2. Use a Gentle Cleanser

Choose a soap free, pH balanced cleanser that is specifically formulated for the face and, if needed, a gentle body cleanser. The goal is to clean without stripping.

Avoid:

• Harsh foaming washes
• Scrubs and exfoliating grains
• Strong fragrances

3. Rehydrate Generously

Apply a hydrating serum or lotion while your skin is still slightly damp, then follow with a soothing moisturiser. Helpful ingredients include:

• Hyaluronic acid for hydration
• Panthenol (vitamin B5) to calm and comfort
• Ceramides and niacinamide to support the barrier
• Oat or other soothing complexes for sensitivity

For particularly dry or irritated areas, a richer cream may be suitable at night.

4. Support the Skin Overnight

Your skin repairs itself while you sleep. A simple night routine for sensitive, swim exposed skin might include:

• Gentle cleanse
• Hydrating serum
• Barrier cream or calming moisturiser

Consistent, gentle care often gives better results than harsh or complicated routines.

Ingredients to Look For (and Avoid) When Skin Is Reactive

Helpful Ingredients

• Ceramides to strengthen the barrier
• Niacinamide to calm redness and support resilience
• Hyaluronic acid and glycerin to draw moisture into the skin
• Panthenol and aloe vera for soothing hydration
• Squalane for lightweight nourishment

Ingredients to Use With Caution

When your skin is already irritated, it may be wise to limit or pause:

• Strong acids or aggressive exfoliants
• Retinoids without professional guidance
• Heavy fragrance or essential oils
• Harsh physical scrubs

Your dermal clinician can help you reintroduce active ingredients gradually once your barrier feels stronger.

Professional Treatments to Support Sensitive, Swim-Exposed Skin

In clinic treatments can help calm sensitivity, restore hydration, and reinforce the barrier, especially during peak swimming seasons.

Depending on your skin, your dermal clinician may recommend:

Hydrating and Calming Facials

These treatments focus on:

• Replenishing moisture
• Reducing visible redness
• Supporting a stronger barrier
• Gently refreshing the skin without aggression

They are ideal for skin that feels dry, tight or dulled by repeated water and sun exposure.

HydraFacial for Sensitive or Dehydrated Skin

HydraFacial can be tailored to more delicate skin, providing:

• Gentle cleansing and exfoliation
• Infusion of hydrating, antioxidant rich serums
• A refreshed, smoother feel without the need for downtime

Your clinician can adjust the treatment according to your sensitivity level.

LED Light Therapy

LED light therapy is a valuable support treatment for sensitive skin because it:

• Helps calm redness
• Supports skin repair
• Works without heat or abrasion

It is often used alongside hydrating facials or after certain procedures to encourage a calmer, more balanced complexion.

Carefully Selected Skin Peels

In some cases, mild, professionally chosen chemical skin peels can help:

• Lift dull, dry surface skin
• Improve texture
• Enhance the absorption of soothing, hydrating products

Any peel for sensitive skin should be selected and monitored by a qualified clinician to ensure it is appropriate for your barrier and tolerance.

When to Seek Professional Advice

You should consider a professional skin consultation if:

• Your skin remains red, itchy or uncomfortable for days after swimming
• You notice persistent rough patches or flaking
• Your usual products start to sting or burn
• You feel unsure how to care for your skin safely

A tailored plan can help you protect your skin while still enjoying the beach or pool.

Why Choose Vitality Laser Skin

Our team of university qualified dermal clinicians understands how Australian conditions, saltwater, chlorine and UV exposure affect sensitive skin. With over 20 years of experience, we focus on:

• Evidence based treatment planning
• Gold standard, advanced technology
• Gentle yet effective care for sensitive and reactive skin
• Personalised routines that fit your lifestyle

Our aim is to help you feel comfortable, confident and informed about your skin all year round.

Book Your Sensitive Skin Consultation

If saltwater or chlorine are leaving your skin feeling uncomfortable, we are here to help.

Book a professional skin consultation to receive a personalised plan to support, protect and strengthen your sensitive skin.