I’m not a big fan of pools, if I’m being honest. But with this California heat lately? I’ve been seriously reconsidering it. Sometimes the pool is the only thing that makes sense.

That’s why I think this DIY chlorine swim spray is the perfect recipe for summer whether you’re in a public pool, your own backyard, or just want something to refresh your skin after a swim. It’s simple, soothing, and gives your skin a little love after all that chlorine.

Chlorine might do a great job keeping the pool clean, but it’s not exactly a skin-friendly ingredient. It can leave your skin feeling tight, dry, and kind of gross. That’s where this easy DIY chlorine-neutralizing spray comes in.

I like to use this simple homemade Vitamin C spray after every swim, and it seriously makes a difference. The ascorbic acid (aka Vitamin C) helps neutralize chlorine on your skin, and the aloe vera adds a nice soothing touch. You can add essential oils for a little scent, or leave it super simple.

Chlorine Swim Spray Recipe

Makes about 8 ounces

Ingredients:

1 tsp ascorbic acid (vitamin C powder)
1 tbsp aloe vera gel
1 cup distilled water
24 drops essential oil (optional that’s a 0.5% dilution)
60 drops Geogard ECT preservative (optional)
pH strips for testing
Spray bottle

0.5% dilution means the amount of essential oil is low just 0.5% of the total recipe. This is a gentle, skin-safe level, especially for leave-on products like sprays.

Instructions:

1. Dissolve the Vitamin C

Add the ascorbic acid to the distilled water and stir until it’s fully dissolved.

2. Mix Aloe and Essential Oils

If you’re using essential oils, mix them into your aloe vera gel. This helps disperse the oils better when everything comes together.

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3. Combine Everything

Add the aloe vera mixture to the water. Then add the Geogard preservative if you’re using one (I like to use it during the summer since I keep this spray in my pool bag).

4. Test and Adjust pH

Use your pH strips to check the spray. You want it to have a pH between pH 4.0–4.5. If it’s too low, add a tiny pinch of baking soda, stir, and test again until it’s in range.

5. Bottle It Up

Give it one last stir and pour it into a spray bottle.

How to Use Swim Spray

Just spray it on your skin after swimming to help remove chlorine and soothe your skin. I usually do a quick rinse or wipe-down, then spritz this on and let it air dry.

Notes

The essential oil is optional you can skip it or use something gentle like lavender or chamomile.
With the preservative, this spray should last a few months if you keep it in a cool, dark place. Fridge storage can make it last even longer.
Without a preservative, you’ll want to use it up within 2–3 weeks. If it smells weird or changes texture, toss it and make a new batch.

Swim Spray

Print Recipe

A simple homemade chlorine-neutralizing spray made with vitamin C, aloe vera, and optional essential oils. Perfect for soothing skin after pool days! Makes about 8 ounces.

Servings 8 oz

Ingredients

1 tsp ascorbic acid vitamin c powder
1 tbsp aloe vera gel
1 cup distilled water
24 drops essential oil optional, 0.5% dilution
60 drops Geogard ECT preservative optional
pH strips for testing

Instructions

Add the ascorbic acid to the water and stir until fully dissolved.
Add the essential oils to the aloe vera gel.
Add the aloe vera gel to the water. Then add in the preservative, if using.
Test the pH of the product. It should be between pH 4.0-4.5. If it is lower, add a bit of baking soda and retest.
Stir well and pour into your spray bottle.
To Use: Spray on your skin after you go swimming in a pool with chlorine.

Notes

The essential oil is optional.
With the preservative it should last a few months if kept in a dark bottle away from the sun. Keeping it in the fridge can extend it’s life. Without a preservative, it will last a few weeks. If is smells or looks weird, throw it out.

DIY Swim Spray to Neutralize Chlorine Naturally

Chlorine Swim Spray Recipe

Ingredients: