Skin rashes are different than skin irritations. If there is an actual rash, the first step is, of course, to consult a doctor.
One possible cause of skin rash is Pseudomonas aeruginosa – commonly referred to as “Hot Tub Dermatitis” or “Folliculitis”. It is an infection of the hair follicles and causes red, itchy bumps. The rash can occur on the arms, legs, or trunk of body, and normally occurs about 8 to 48 hours after contamination. Pseudomonas is a pathogen that feeds on oil and grease and can multiply rapidly under warm, moist conditions. Spas are an ideal place for Pseudomonas to live, but it can occur in pools as well.
Stay out of the pool or spa until the rash has cleared up completely. To eliminate Pseudomonas from the water, select the system type below:
Pools:
- Add 2 bags of Burn Out Extreme per 50,000 litres or 300 grams of Burn Out 35 per 10,000 litres.
- Chemically clean the filter with Filter Brite.
- Do not swim until the chlorine residual drops to 5.0 ppm or less, or the bromine residual drops to 8.0 ppm or less.
Spas and hot tubs:
- Drain the spa and refill just above the jets.
- Remove the filter and soak in a Filter Brite solution for 12 hours.
- Add 100 grams of Chlorinated Concentrate per 1,000 litres. Turn on the jets and circulate for 2 – 3 hours. The bacterial growth usually builds up in the lines, so it is necessary to flush them thoroughly.
- Drain the spa again and refill with fresh water. Rinse and replace the filter. Rebalance spa and shock.
