If you regularly soak in a hot tub, you’re familiar with the relaxation benefits you receive from the soothing hot water. Because your hot tub uses a mix of chemicals that balance and sanitize the water, you’ll need to maintain your spa regularly to minimize the potential for skin irritations.
Hot Tub Folliculitis
Hot tub folliculitis is the most common hot tub skin ailment. Bacteria that cause this skin condition (Pseudomonas folliculitis) thrive in hot tubs without good pH and chlorine balance. In October 2009, MayoClinic.com noted that typical symptoms include red itchy bumps that can develop into blisters.
Symptoms can become apparent within eight hours, although a five-day incubation period is possible. You may notice the worst irritations in areas where your swimsuit contacted the contaminated water. If your condition doesn’t go away within a few days, contact your doctor or a dermatologist.
Contact Dermatitis
You can experience contact dermatitis, in this case a skin reaction from your hot tub's chemicals. In September 2004, Dr. Andrew Scheman, a dermatologist in private practice in North Brook, Illinois, discussed a case in the "Skin & Aging" medical journal. Dr. Scheman noted that a patient exhibited rash-like symptoms after his hot tub soaks. Dr. Scheman performed allergy testing for several hot tub sanitizing chemicals, plus a common hot tub fragrance agent. After identifying the offending chemical, Dr. Scheman recommended a switch to another chemical system, which resolved the problem.
Swimmer's Xerosis
If you swim regularly in chlorinated water, your skin may lose its protective top layer and can become dry and itchy. In November 2004, three dermatologists reported on swimmer's xerosis, or dry skin, in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
The dermatologists collectively noted that swimmer’s xerosis can be aggravated by hot showers or long hot tub sessions. Besides limiting post-swim showers and soaks, the physicians recommended that you dry gently with a towel and then apply an oil-based moisturizer. Seek professional assistance if eczema develops.
Swimmer's Ear
If you enjoy swimming, or like to soak in hot tubs, you may have encountered a condition commonly known as swimmer’s ear. The American Academy of Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surger, is a professional group of ear, nose and throat physicians based in Alexandria, Virginia. In a 2010 informational bulletin, the Academy noted that swimmer's ear occurs when dirty water is trapped within the ear canal. Waterborne bacteria can cause pain and swelling that can radiate to other parts of your head. Depending on the infection's severity and duration, your doctor may prescribe ear drops or antibiotics.
Prevention/Solution
To minimize potential for hot tub skin problems, clean and maintain your spa regularly. Hot Tub Essentials, a spa maintenance company, recommended in 2010 that you clean and refill your hot tub at least every three to four months. Add chemicals, and test the pH and alkalinity until they reach acceptable levels. You’ll also want to add a sanitizer at that time. Test your spa weekly, and always follow your manufacturer's specific instructions.
References
- MayoClinic.com: October 2009: Hot Tub Folliculitis: Clinical Dermatology: 2004
- Dr. Andrew Scheman: Skin and Aging: Cracking Tough Cases of Contact Dermatitis
- Freiman, Barankin, Elpern: Canadian Medical Association: November 2004: Sports Dermatology Part 2: Swimming & Other Aquatic Sports
- American Academy of Otolaryngology: Swimmer's Ear
- Hot Tub Essentials: Hot Tub Chemical Instructions
