Hot tubs can cause skin rashes. These irritations typically stem from bacterial infections or chemical sensitivities within the water.
Understanding Bacterial Rashes
The most common hot tub-related rash is “hot tub rash,” caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This infection targets hair follicles, leading to skin inflammation.
This bacterium thrives in warm, moist hot tub conditions, especially when disinfectant levels are insufficient. Prolonged contact with contaminated water allows bacteria to infect hair follicles.
The rash typically appears as itchy, red bumps, sometimes developing into pus-filled blisters around hair follicles. Symptoms usually emerge within a few days of exposure, often being more pronounced in areas where a swimsuit held water against the skin.
Other Skin Irritations
Beyond bacterial infections, hot tub chemicals like chlorine and bromine can irritate skin if concentrations are imbalanced or too high. This reaction is known as irritant contact dermatitis.
These sanitizers can strip natural oils from the skin, leading to dryness, itching, and redness. Symptoms might include chapped or cracked skin, burning sensations, or even hives. Unlike bacterial rashes, chemical irritations are not contagious and are a direct response of the skin to an external irritant rather than an infection.
Identifying and Addressing Rashes
A hot tub rash appears as itchy, red bumps or pus-filled blisters, sometimes resembling acne. Symptoms can emerge hours to days after exposure, potentially causing tenderness, a burning sensation, mild fever, or fatigue.
For mild rashes, self-care measures can help alleviate discomfort. Keeping the affected area clean with antibacterial soap and applying warm compresses can be beneficial. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may reduce itching and inflammation, while antihistamines can help with hives. If the rash worsens, spreads, becomes severely painful, or if you develop a fever, swollen lymph nodes, or signs of a secondary infection, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
Steps to Prevent Rashes
Preventing hot tub rashes requires proper maintenance and personal hygiene. Regularly test water chemical levels; the CDC recommends chlorine at 3 ppm minimum, bromine between 4-8 ppm, and a pH of 7.0-7.8. This ensures effective disinfection and prevents imbalances.
Showering with soap before entering a hot tub helps remove oils and products that can neutralize sanitizers. Showering immediately after exiting the hot tub with soap and water is also important, as this washes away any lingering bacteria or chemicals from the skin. Additionally, washing swimsuits after each use prevents contaminated water from remaining on the fabric. Avoiding prolonged exposure, especially in public hot tubs where maintenance might be less consistent, can also help reduce risk.