Eye or Skin Irritation

Irritation can be caused by chloramines or excessive organic contaminants, such as lotions, oils, cosmetics, etc. Shocking the spa with a quality spa shock or oxidizer will help reduce the contaminants. Eye or skin irritation can also be caused by the pH or total alkalinity being out of balance. In this case, test and adjust the pH and total alkalinity as necessary. Do not enter the spa until the water appears to be balanced.

A common skin irritation is the condition known as Hot Tub Folliculitis.
According to Google Health, hot tub folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that occurs when you come into contact with a certain bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, that live in warm, wet areas. This form of bacteria thrives in spas, especially spas made of wood, unless the water’s acid and sanitizer levels are strictly controlled. Careful attention to controlling the acid levels and chlorine or bromine content of the hot tub may help to prevent hot tub folliculitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hot tub folliculitis can be seen within several hours to 2 days after coming into contact with the bacteria.

•  It first appears as an itchy, bumpy, red rash.
•  Bumps may develop into dark red, tender nodules.
•  Bumps may become filled with pus.

The rash may be thicker under swimsuit areas, where the material has held the contaminated water in contact with the skin for a longer period of time.

Those who shared the hot tub may have the same rash.

Treatment

Treatment may not be needed, as the mild form of the disease usually clears on its own. Anti-itch medications may be used.  Hot Tub Folliculitis usually clears without scarring. It may recur if the infected hot tub is not properly cleaned and balanced.

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