Hot Tub Rash Prevention: Folliculitis, Chlorine & Bromine Hot Tub Rash

There are multiple causes of hot tub and swimming pool rash. So the first step to hot tub rash prevention is understanding the various causes. Chlorine and bromine hot tub rash are chemical irritations and reactions. Hot tub folliculitis, on the other hand, is caused by bacteria that harbors in hot tubs and swimming pools. Although a rash after hot tub use is treatable, reactions can be severe and pose complications in rare cases. So both hot tub folliculitis prevention and swimming pool rash prevention are a must.

Chlorine rash prevention

Chlorine, which is a hot tub sanitizer, can cause dry, itchy skin, redness, and hives. The condition is called irritant dermatitis and is similar to a chemical burn. Chlorine rash prevention, therefore, involves the management of hot tub water chemicals and self-care. You’ll find below that bromine hot tub rash prevention has many similarities.

The ideal chlorine level both to kill off bacteria and for chlorine rash prevention is between 1 ppm and 4 ppm, with 3 ppm being optimal. It’s also best to avoid entering a spa right after adding chlorine. Instead, wait several hours, then test the water again.

Spa Marvel Water Treatment & Conditioner also helps with chlorine rash prevention by reducing the amount and frequency that chlorine must be added to maintain your spa.

Proper skincare is the second step to chlorine rash prevention. So follow these recommendations.

• When adding chlorine to your spa, wear rubber gloves, and cover your arms and body so chlorine can’t get on your skin.

• Shower just before getting into the spa to reduce your skin’s ability to absorb the chlorinated hot tub water.

• Use chlorine neutralizing cream or lotion on your skin before entering the hot tub.

• Shower immediately after exiting the jacuzzi to wash the chlorine off your skin.

• After showering and while your skin is damp, apply moisturizer to retain your natural oils.

• Drink plenty of liquids to keep skin hydrated.

• Exfoliate a couple of times a week to remove dead skin cells that cause irritation.

Bromine hot tub rash prevention

Bromine is an alternative hot tub sanitizer that can cause similar skin reactions to chlorine. Bromine is particularly problematic for those with sensitive skin or bromine allergy. So avoid entering spas and pools containing bromine if you have bromine allergy.

Otherwise, prevent bromine hot tub rash by making certain bromine levels are safe before entering the hot tub. Between 3 ppm and 5 ppm is the recommended level with the latter being optimal for sanitization. Like with chlorine rash prevention, Spa Marvel Water Treatment & Conditioner can simplify your spa maintenance and reduce your risk of chlorine rash.

Self-care is also essential to prevent bromine hot tub rash. So follow the skincare guidelines above for chlorine rash prevention.

Also, be aware that spas and pools sanitized with bromine may contain chlorine, which is a component of some bromine tablets. So it may be necessary to monitor chlorine levels in bromine treated spas for chlorine rash prevention.

Hot tub folliculitis prevention

Pseudomonas folliculitis is a bacterial infection that causes itchy, red bumps. So it’s crucial to maintain proper sanitizer levels for hot tub folliculitis prevention.

Hot tub pH also affects bacteria’s ability to thrive. When water is too acidic, sanitizer is less effective. So maintain a pH level between 7.2 to 7.8, preferably in the mid-range.

Spa Marvel products make it easier to clean your hot tub and maintain appropriate chemical levels. This can help with hot tub folliculitis prevention.

Also, follow these self-care recommendations, which is the second part of hot tub folliculitis prevention.

• Avoid shaving or waxing before entering a hot tub.

• Shower in warm water upon exiting the spa.

• Don’t share a jacuzzi with someone infected with hot tub folliculitis.

• Wash your swimsuit and towel each time rather than letting them air dry.

• Avoid sharing clothing and towels with anyone infected with pseudomonas folliculitis.

Swimming pool rash prevention

Chlorine, bromine, and hot tub rash prevention is generally the same for swimming pools as hot tubs. So for swimming pool rash prevention, check sanitizer and pH levels before entering the pool. Also, follow the self-care recommendations listed above under chlorine rash, bromine hot tub rash, and hot tub folliculitis prevention.