Hot Tub Rash

Hot tub rash is a skin disorder caused due to infection of the hair follicles by the bacterial strain, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Medically this skin disorder is also referred to as Pseudomonas folliculitis or hot tub folliculitis. And, the name hot tub rash is assigned as the bacteria usually propagate in hot tubs, swimming pools and even in loofah sponges. Hot tub rash in children is more prevalent than adults, as they tend to spend more time while bathing in hot tubs or swimming pools.

Hot Tub Rash Symptoms

The noticeable symptom of hot tub rashes is the eruption of reddish colored papules (0.5-1 cm size) mostly around the hair follicles, which also have a pustule at the center. In the initial stages, the infected skin area feels a mild to an intense itching sensation. Within a few days, you will notice an outbreak of small itchy bumps that are raised from the surrounding skin area. Later on, as the bacterial infection progresses, the bumps turn tender and sensitive, giving rise to reddish colored skin nodules with pus formation.

Hot tub rashes may erupt in any part of the body that comes in contact with contaminated water. In general signs and symptoms are manifested after two days of infection with the causal bacterium. Outbreaks of the rashes and skin problems are mostly severe in areas that are covered by a swimsuit. This is because, the contaminated water remains in contact with those skin portions for a longer time.

Other than skin symptoms, a person with hot tub rash may manifest increased fatigue and in rare cases, fever like conditions. Unlike other skin infection cases, hot tub rashes are not contagious. In short, the bacterium responsible for causing hot tub rash is not transferable even with direct skin contact with an infected person. However, being not transmittable does not mean that one should not take extra skin care during the outbreak of a hot tub rash.

Hot Tub Rash Treatment and Prevention

Therapeutic treatment for hot tub rash is not necessary for most of the cases and they resolve on their own within a few days to two weeks time. Nevertheless, for a prolonged hot tub rash, home remedies along with proper skin care should be followed carefully for treating the condition. A mild, perfume free soap should be used for cleaning the rash affected body areas. Applying vinegar compresses for about 15-20 minutes twice a day will help in getting relief from itching.

For hot tub rashes that are associated with severe itching, applying an over-the-counter anti-itch cream or ointment containing hydrocortisone will help in reducing the discomfort sensation. And in case of patients with a painful abscess formation, consulting a dermatologist is imperative for hot tub rash cure. The doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic course to hasten the healing period of the skin rashes. This will also help in preventing recurrent outbreaks of hot tub rashes.

After the hot tub rash heals, it is usual to leave behind a dark-colored or hyperpigmented lesion. Such skin lesions will disappear within a few months. While coming to hot tub rash prevention, sanitation and timely changing of the pool water or hot tub water is of utmost importance. Even the best hot tubs harbor this bacteria, if not maintained properly. Hence, follow the pool or hot tub maintenance guidelines to minimize the risk of developing hot tub rashes.