What Causes Hot Tub Rash?

Many enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm waters of a hot tub. Some claim it provides health benefits that go beyond relaxation and enjoyment. A hot tub soak can ease muscle and joint pain and help wash away stress. It may help you sleep, relieve headaches and ease the ailments of many diseases. For some, it offers nothing more than pure pleasure. However, it can also cause hot tub rash.

What Is Hot Tub Rash?

• Skin that has become itchy and develops into a red raised rash after a soak in a hot tub is most likely a skin infection. Often referred to as dermatitis or hot tub rash, this condition can advance into a troublesome condition.

Progression

• The rash may continue to form blisters around the hair follicles. These blisters may ooze and be filled with pus. A wet swimsuit is a perfect breeding ground for this kind of rash, and the infection may be more severe under the swimsuit area.

Causes

• Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the culprit behind hot tub rashes. This germ thrives and spreads in water.

How It Spreads

• Immediate contact from skin to infected water is what causes hot tub rash. A rash frequently appears a few days after swimming in contaminated water.

Prevention/Solution

• Most hot tub rashes heal by themselves fairly quickly. Make sure the hot tub is constantly tested and controlled with the proper chemicals to prevent infection.