Hot tub dermatitis is caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa found in warm water, such as hot tubs and heated swimming pools. It causes red, itchy bumps on the skin and can be prevented by showering after use and regularly disinfecting the water with chlorine.
Hot tub dermatitis is characterized by red, itchy bumps that often appear on the skin of people who have recently used a hot tub. This type of dermatitis can also occur if a person has been swimming in a pool, lake, or other body of water. The bumps are the result of a type of bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa that is typically found in soil and water. Hot tubs and heated swimming pools are likely to contain this bacteria due to the warm water, which creates a suitable environment for the bacteria to thrive in. Dermatitis may also be more likely to develop if a person has been in a hot tub or swimming pool that is not regularly disinfected with chlorine.
For most people, hot tub dermatitis occurs in areas of the body normally covered by a bathing suit. Some people also develop hot tub folliculitis, which is caused by the same germ as hot tub dermatitis. Hot tub folliculitis causes an infection within a person’s hair follicles. Both of these problems typically develop within two days of being inside a contaminated hot tub or swimming pool. While the problem is usually annoying while it lasts, it usually doesn’t require any medication and tends to go away on its own after a couple of days.
There are a few things a person may be able to do to help reduce the itching caused by hot tub dermatitis while it is present on the body. Almost any over-the-counter anti-itch product will likely help relieve symptoms. Vinegar-containing compresses can also be applied to irritated areas for several minutes at a time to relieve itching. There may also be some benefit to taking oral antihistamines at night to help stop itching that may be interfering with sleep.
A person who frequently uses hot tubs and swimming pools should do what they can to prevent hot tub dermatitis. One of the best prevention methods is to always shower immediately after getting out of the hot tub or pool. While showering, soap should be used all over the body to remove any bacteria that may be lingering on the skin. A person who maintains their pool or hot tub should sanitize with chlorine daily when they use it regularly to prevent bacteria buildup. Also, people who visit other people’s pools or hot tubs should ask them how often they sanitize their water to get a good idea of how likely bacteria is present.
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