Hot Tub Rash is an occasional problem. It’s not exactly common but it can be an issue for some folks.
What is Hot Tub Rash
As you would imagine, Hot Tub Rash is a skin irritation (or rash) that is identified as Folliculitis. It’s also sometimes inaccurately called Reticulitis. It can affect any part of your body in contact with spa water.
It is an infection in the hair follicles that often manifests as red, itchy bumps or white-headed pimples. It’s caused by bacteria in spa water, specifically a bacterium known as Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
What is the Solution for Hot Tub Rash
Since Hot Tub Rash is caused by bacteria, the solution is quite obvious. It’s simply to maintain the proper level of sanitizer AND proper pH at all times in your spa. For chlorine it’s 2 – 4 ppm and for bromine it’s 3 – 5 ppm. Your pH should be in the range of 7.2 – 7.6.
However, I just said “at all times.” That can be a challenge for a # of reasons so the best solution also includes the use of our Serum Total Maintenance as a secondary, and EPA Registered, sanitizer in your spa. If your sanitizer level drops, and it will, Total Maintenance continues to kill bacteria and other pathogens. Also, since Total Maintenance is a strong pH Buffer, it will help ensure your pH stays within the proper range, once adjusted to 7.2 – 7.6.
Note that proper pH is not just important for your skin. It also helps ensure your primary sanitizer is effective in killing bacteria. For more on pH, please see our Blog “Why pH Is Important To Maintaining Your Spa.
Tony Turbo
