Most people dive into their backyard pool without a second thought. But have you ever considered what’s actually in that water? If you’re swimming in a traditional chlorine pool, your skin could be absorbing a surprising amount of chemicals—and the effects go deeper than just dry skin.
Chlorine has long been the standard for pool sanitation, but evidence shows that it can do more harm than good. Studies have found that the skin absorbs chlorine quickly. So, every time you swim, you could be letting this chemical seep into your body, contributing to endocrine disruption, respiratory irritation, and even potential damage to the blood-brain barrier.
As more people become aware of the potential risks of chlorine, the conversation has shifted towards healthier pool alternatives. This post will break down the best options available, including saltwater and magnesium pools, and help you understand which is best for your health, your wallet, and your long-term well-being.

The Chlorine Problem: What You’re Really Swimming In

Traditional chlorine pools use high levels of chlorine to disinfect the water. While effective, chlorine can create harmful by-products when it reacts with organic matter like sweat, sunscreen, or even leaves. These by-products, like chloramines, can irritate the skin and lungs and may have more serious long-term health effects, including potential hormone disruption.
If you’ve noticed that your skin feels dry or irritated after swimming, chlorine could be the culprit. Over time, exposure to high levels of chlorine can strip your skin of natural oils, causing damage and even increasing the risk of skin conditions. Worse yet, the chlorine doesn’t just stay on the surface—it’s absorbed into your body.
That’s why many are turning away from traditional chlorine pools and looking for healthier alternatives.

Saltwater Pools: A Healthier, Cost-Effective Alternative

Saltwater pools have gained popularity because they offer a much gentler experience. Instead of dumping chlorine directly into the water, saltwater pools use a salt chlorinator to convert salt into a low level of chlorine. This means less exposure to harsh chemicals.

Health Benefits: Saltwater pools are gentler on your skin, hair, and eyes. They also have a softer feel, which makes swimming more pleasant. Because the chlorine levels are lower, you avoid the strong chemical smell and potential irritation.
Cost: While the initial installation cost is higher than a traditional chlorine pool (due to the need for a salt chlorinator), the ongoing maintenance costs are lower. You’ll only need to occasionally add salt, which is far cheaper than constantly purchasing chlorine.
Maintenance: Saltwater pools mostly take care of themselves, as the salt chlorinator regulates the chlorine levels. However, the salt cell will need to be replaced every few years.

Magnesium Pools: Therapeutic and Luxurious

If you’re looking for the ultimate in healthy pool options, magnesium pools are a clear winner. Magnesium has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which means it can help keep the pool water clean while offering additional health benefits.

Health Benefits: Swimming in magnesium-enriched water can improve your skin’s hydration and even help relieve conditions like eczema. Magnesium is absorbed through the skin, promoting muscle relaxation and overall well-being—just like soaking in an Epsom salt bath.
Cost: Magnesium pools are more expensive to install and maintain than either traditional or saltwater pools, as the minerals themselves are pricier. You’ll also need specialized filtration equipment to keep the pool clean.
Maintenance: While magnesium provides great health benefits, it doesn’t fully sanitize the water on its own. You’ll need to supplement the system with additional UV or ozone sanitizers to ensure the water stays clean.

Are Mold Growth and Pollution Concerns Real?

One major concern with pool water, especially in chlorine pools, is the potential for mold growth. If the water becomes slightly polluted—such as from organic debris—mold can start to grow, even underwater. This is especially true if the chemical balance is off and the chlorine levels drop too low.
In Saltwater Pools: Mold is less likely to grow, but if the salt chlorinator isn’t working properly or if the water balance isn’t maintained, it’s still possible. However, with regular cleaning and proper maintenance, the risk is very low.
In Magnesium Pools: Magnesium’s natural antibacterial properties make mold growth even less likely. But as with any pool, keeping the water clean and balanced is key to preventing issues.

The Cost Breakdown: Chlorine vs. Saltwater vs. Magnesium

Comparison of Pool Systems

Factor	Traditional Chlorine Pool	Saltwater Pool	Magnesium Pool	Grandervand System	Reverse Osmosis System
Upfront Installation Cost	€1,000-€2,000	€1,500-€2,500 (salt chlorinator)	€3,000-€4,000 (magnesium system)	€4,000-€6,000 (Grandervand system)	€5,000-€7,000 (RO system)
Annual Maintenance Cost	€300-€500 (chemicals)	€200-€400 (salt + cell replacement)	€300-€700 (magnesium + UV system)	€150-€300 (minimal chemical use)	€300-€500 (filter replacements)
Skin & Hair Health	Can cause irritation, dryness	Gentler on skin and hair	Excellent, therapeutic benefits	Extremely gentle, revitalized water	Very gentle, ideal for sensitive skin
Chemical Use	High chlorine use	Lower chlorine use (via electrolysis)	No chlorine, magnesium disinfects	Minimal chemical use	No chemical use, 99% impurity removal
Sanitization Effectiveness	High (kills bacteria)	Effective with proper maintenance	Requires additional sanitizers	Biologically active, resists contamination	Extremely effective, removes 99% of impurities
Health Benefits	None	Some (gentler, less chemicals)	High (therapeutic)	High (improves skin hydration, supports well-being)	Very high (removes irritants, ideal for allergies)
Total Yearly Cost	€300-€500	€200-€400	€300-€700	€150-€300	€300-€500

Exploring Advanced Pool Systems: Grandervand and Reverse Osmosis for Healthier Swimming

For individuals prioritizing health and wellness in their pool water, two advanced alternatives—Grandervand and Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems—offer exceptional solutions to significantly reduce or eliminate chemical exposure while enhancing water quality.

Grandervand.dk

Grandervand is a unique water revitalization technology that restructures water on a molecular level, mimicking natural spring water. This process helps the water become more biologically active and improves its ability to resist contamination from bacteria, algae, and other pollutants. The revitalized water feels softer on the skin and is less irritating, as it reduces the need for harsh chemicals like chlorine. A major benefit is that Grandervand systems enhance the energetic properties of the water, which some users report helps improve skin hydration, reduce dryness, and support overall well-being after swimming.

Reverse Osmosis

In contrast, Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems are highly efficient at purifying water by filtering out up to 99% of impurities, including chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and other harmful chemicals. The RO process uses a semi-permeable membrane to remove even the smallest particles, leaving behind pure, clean water. This method is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin or people prone to allergies, as it eliminates the irritants often found in traditional pool water. Moreover, the removal of chlorine and chemical by-products greatly reduces the risk of skin irritation, respiratory issues, or long-term exposure to potentially harmful compounds. RO systems also help maintain more stable water chemistry, reducing the need for constant chemical adjustments and allowing for a safer, more natural swimming experience.

While both systems require a higher upfront investment, they provide unparalleled health benefits by minimizing chemical exposure, improving water quality, and creating a more enjoyable and skin-friendly swimming environment. For those seeking the cleanest and healthiest pool possible, Grandervand and Reverse Osmosis stand out as the top choices.

Taking Control of Your Health Starts with Your Pool

When it comes to protecting your health, what you swim in matters. Traditional chlorine pools may be the cheapest option upfront, but they come with hidden health risks and higher long-term costs in both maintenance and potential harm to your skin and body. Saltwater pools strike a great balance between cost and health benefits, offering a gentler, more affordable solution that reduces your chemical exposure. For those looking for the healthiest option, magnesium pools are unmatched, providing therapeutic benefits for your skin and body.
Remember, your health is in your hands—literally, in this case. By choosing a pool that supports your well-being, you’re taking one more step toward living a healthier, more conscious life.

By paying attention to the water you’re swimming in, you’re also taking responsibility for your long-term health. Chlorine, while effective at keeping pools clean, can negatively impact the body over time. For those committed to a healthier lifestyle, opting for alternatives like saltwater or magnesium pools allows you to enjoy the benefits of swimming without the downsides of chemical-heavy water.

Whether you’re considering building a pool or switching your current pool system, your choices reflect how you prioritize your health and that of your family. Saltwater pools are the middle ground for those wanting to move away from harsh chemicals without breaking the bank, while magnesium pools provide the ultimate in health benefits at a higher cost. With any option, regular maintenance is key to preventing mold growth and keeping your pool safe and clean.

Ultimately, by becoming more aware of what traditional pool water can do to you, you’re one step closer to taking full responsibility for your well-being. Choose a pool option that aligns with your values of living a healthier life, and make swimming a rejuvenating experience for both body and mind.

TAKE ACTION: CHOOSE A HEALTHIER POOL TODAY

When it comes to making choices that support your health, the decision is clear: avoid traditional chlorine pools and opt for something that nourishes your body instead. Whether it’s a saltwater pool with the addition of Epsom salt for a calming experience, or the therapeutic qualities of magnesium, you’ll be investing in your health every time you take a dip.