If you’ve recently enjoyed some time in a hot tub and now find yourself dealing with an itchy, bothersome rash, you might be experiencing what’s commonly referred to as hot tub rash, also known as hot tub folliculitis.
A hot tub rash — with itchy, bumpy, red skin — is an infection from common bacteria in hot tubs and swimming pools. Learn how to treat it.
What Is It?
A hot tub rash is an infection of the hair follicles caused by bacteria that thrive in warm, wet environments, such as hot tubs, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The bacteria that cause the rash is called Pseudomonas aeruginosa and can survive in the slime that forms in pools and hot tubs that aren’t properly maintained with the correct levels of chlorine or bromine. It then attaches to your skin, causing the rash. Kids and women are more likely to develop a rash from the bacteria.
Signs and Symptoms
The CDC defines the symptoms of this type of rash as itchy, red, bumpy pimples or blisters in the areas where your swimsuit held water up against your skin. In some cases, these spots can develop into a tender, red, swollen, pus-filled blister or mass, often mistaken for an insect bite. These symptoms typically appear within a few days after you sit in the hot tub or spa.
Hot Tub Folliculitis vs. An Allergic Reaction to Hot Tub Chemicals
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, there’s really no such thing as a chlorine allergy; instead, your skin might be sensitive to it. If you’re having a true allergic reaction to hot tub chemicals, then it’s probably caused by asthma or allergic rhinitis. Your symptoms could include coughing, trouble breathing, tight chest, runny nose, itching, sneezing, or stuffy nose.
If you have a skin sensitivity to chlorine, you’ll experience symptoms similar to hot tub folliculitis, including skin redness and rash, but also scaley or crusty skin. This is known as a chlorine rash. Like a hot tub rash, with a chlorine rash, you should clean the affected area with clean water to remove any remnants of the irritant.
Relieving the Itch
Most mild rashes clear up on their own in a few days, but the itchiness and appearance can cause significant discomfort during this time. You can apply warm compresses to the affected areas or use over-the-counter anti-itch creams to help relieve some of the discomfort. Also, be sure to keep the infected area clean by using antibacterial soap to kill lingering bacteria and keep it dry to keep from aggravating it more. Otherhot tub rash home remedies include: Diluted white vinegar compresses or applying a baking soda and water paste to soothe the itching.
Visit an American Family Care for Help
If the rash doesn’t clear up, becomes increasingly painful, or you develop a fever or have the rash more than once, visit your local American Family Care (AFC). The medical providers at the urgent care center can help you determine what’s behind your rash. They can then offer guidance on managing your symptoms and avoiding future reactions.
If you can’t fight the itch, a secondary bacterial infection can occur, which the providers at AFC can help you treat.
Our clinics are open later in the evenings and on the weekends to help meet your busy schedule. Don’t know exactly when you can come in? No problem because no appointment is necessary. All our clinics accept walk-ins. Find a location near you to help get some relief.
