If you start developing a rash after soaking in your spa, the experience can quickly go from hot tub party to hot mess. A red, itchy, bumpy rash on your skin after a dip is a reaction a small number of people have to hot tubs. In some cases, your rash could be an infection from the germ pseudomonas aeruginosa, but in other cases it could be an allergic reaction to certain chemicals.

Visiting a doctor and receiving a professional opinion and treatment should be your first step in solving the problem. The next step is to check out these ways of preventing irritation in the future.

Spa Maintenance
An unsanitary hot tub is a breeding ground for bacteria, which could irritate your skin. Follow a consistent cleaning and maintenance schedule that includes periodically checking the pH levels, shock treating, monitoring sanitization levels, and draining and refilling your hot tub.

Hygiene
In addition to maintaining your tub’s hygiene, personal cleanliness can prevent reactions too. Shower before soaking in your tub and rinse off with fresh water afterward. Also wash your swimsuit after spending time in the spa to keep bacteria from growing or lingering.

Experiment with Different Chemicals
Depending on your doctor’s diagnosis, you may be allergic to a certain chemical you’ve been using in your tub. Fortunately, there are a number of alternatives you can use when cleaning and chlorinating your hot tub, so a little trial and error could be the key to curtailing the problem.

Hot tubs are supposed to be fun, but rashes are anything but. Don’t let a few bumps ruin your spa party. Consult with your doctor to get to the root of the problem and then make the necessary changes to your spa maintenance routine. If swapping out chemicals seems daunting all on your own, meet with a hot tub professional for specific tips and recommendations.