With a freshly opened lesion, swimming in a chlorinated pool is generally not recommended. Open wounds can allow bacteria or viruses to enter the body, raising the risk of infection — and water exposure can also slow down the healing process. That said, if skipping the pool isn't an option, here are some precautions to Show Full Answer
With a freshly opened lesion, swimming in a chlorinated pool is generally not recommended. Open wounds can allow bacteria or viruses to enter the body, raising the risk of infection — and water exposure can also slow down the healing process. That said, if skipping the pool isn't an option, here are some precautions to consider:
- Cover the wound with a waterproof bandage before getting in
- Shower immediately after swimming to rinse off any bacteria or chlorine
- Watch for warning signs of infection afterward, such as increased pain, swelling, pus, discoloration, or itching
- Contact your dermatologist if anything looks or feels worse after swimming
It's also worth knowing that chlorine affects everyone differently — some myHSteam members find it irritates their skin and triggers flare-ups, while others find it actually helps dry out lesions.
The safest move would be to check in with your dermatologist before jumping in, especially with a wound that just opened yesterday. Better safe than soggy! 🏊
July 25
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