Water, clarity and algae
Pool water that stings eyes and skin
Red eyes after a swim are a water balance problem, and in most pools the cause can be found with two or three tests.
The comfort of pool water depends mostly on pH and on combined chlorine. Tears are close to neutral pH, so water that is noticeably acidic or alkaline irritates the eyes. Chloramines — the by-products of chlorine reacting with sweat and other organic matter — irritate eyes and skin even when the water looks perfect.
Water guides explain what a reading or a symptom means and the order in which to correct it.
Occasionally the cause is simply too much chlorine after a heavy dose. Testing pH, free chlorine and total chlorine together usually identifies which of these is responsible, and the fix differs for each.
The short version
Check pH first
pH outside the comfortable range is the most common cause of stinging.
Then combined chlorine
Chloramines irritate at low levels and need oxidising.
Then the dose
Swimming straight after shocking can irritate.
Matching the fix to the cause
pH out of range
Adjusted gradually back into range, with alkalinity checked so it holds.
Chloramines
Cleared by shocking and reducing the organic load.
Recent heavy dose
Swimming waits until free chlorine falls to a normal level.
Test these when swimmers complain
pH
The single most likely cause.
Free and total chlorine
The difference shows combined chlorine.
Recent dosing
Note what was added and when.
Common questions
Should swimmers wear goggles anyway?
Goggles help, but stinging is still a sign the water needs attention.
Can dry skin come from pool water?
Yes, especially with high pH or high chlorine. Rinsing after swimming helps.
Are salt pools gentler?
Many people find them softer, but they still need balanced pH and chlorine.
Related pool care guides
- Metal stains in a poolAnother water problem with a related cause.
- Organic stains in a poolAnother water problem with a related cause.
- Storing pool chemicals safely at homeA routine task that prevents the same trouble.
- Dealing with a contamination incident in a private poolPool care for a related situation.
This guide sits under pool water treatment. Browse all pool care guides. We look after pools at homes and commercial properties across Dubai.
Ask about your pool
A clear photograph and your latest test reading are usually enough for a useful first answer.
Phone
+971 56 181 0106Talk through what the pool is doing and book a time for us to see it.
WhatsApp
Send a messageThe easiest way to send photographs of the pool and plant room.
Next step
Make the water comfortable again
Send your pH and chlorine readings and tell us what swimmers notice. We will suggest the adjustment that fits.