Bromine used in swimming pools can sometimes cause skin problems.
Bromine is frequently used as a replacement for chlorine in swimming pools. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) refers to it as a severe irritant to the skin. Results of contact, direct or otherwise, depend on the amount of the chemical, duration of exposure and any pre-existing health conditions or allergies. If liquid bromine comes in contact with your skin, wash it with soap and water immediately for a minimum of 15 minutes.
Burns
Direct exposure to liquid bromine can cause skin lesions in the form of chemical burns. When bromine comes into contact with skin it will initially feel cool. It will very quickly change to a burning sensation, which is what is actually occurring. Prolonged exposure can cause deep, ulcerating burns that are slow to heal.
While the CDC recommends washing skin with soap and water if skin contact occurs, if the skin is broken you must use only water. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Dermatitis
Continuous contact with bromine in swimming pools or in occupationally related activities (such as pool maintenance work) can lead to dermatitis. Some people develop reactions to bromine in swimming pools despite having no problems in chlorinated pools. Such reactions can be mild or severe. Severe dermatoses have been reported, with red, itchy papules (bumps) on the skin that can lead to intense eczema.
Simple Itchy Rash
Many swimmers find they are sensitive to bromine-sanitized pools and develop a simple, itchy rash that is not as severe as dermatitis or eczema. Usually this category of rash is brief and goes away easily once exposure stops. However, sometimes the itchy rash that comes from bromine-treated pools is actually a result of improper sanitation practices. In this case the pool has insufficient levels of bromine, allowing a common bacteria to grow and cause potential skin infections. The medical name for the condition is pseudomonas folliculitis, commonly referred to as hot tub rash, due to its prevalence in public facilities.
