'FAQ' On Spa Pool Acne

Here are some frequently asked questions about the acne-like condition that is associated with swimming pools and hot tubs.

1. What is spa pool acne?

Spa pool acne is a common (and medically incorrect) name for 'œpseudomonas folliculitis'œ which is commonly known as 'œspa pool folliculitis'�

2. What is the difference between acne and folliculitis?

Folliculitis can look similar to acne but folliculitis is a bacterial infection of hair follicles caused by an external source of bacteria; acne is also a bacterial infection but it is caused by a natural bacteria (P.acnes) that is always present on healthy skin. P.acnes only causes trouble when pores in the skin become blocked, causing the P.acnes bacteria to build up.

3. What then is spa pool folliculitis?

Spa pool folliculitis is a skin condition that looks very much like acne but is caused by a bacterial infection of hair follicles. This condition is most commonly caused by bacteria (P. aeruginosa) found in poorly maintained public swimming pools, Jacuzzis and hot tubs.

4. How does the bacteria get in the water?

When warm water (such as in a heated swimming pool, hot tub or Jacuzzi) is not properly disinfected, bacteria from the bodies of the people using it will build up and the potential for infecting other pool or hot tub users increases. This is especially true for public venues (swimming pools, hot tubs, communal baths) that have not been properly treated with chlorine and other pool chemicals.

5. What does spa pool folliculitis look like?

Spa pool folliculitis appears as a rash that consists of small red itchy or tender bumps. This rash will mainly appear in areas that were covered by a bathing suit and some of the 'bumps' may be pustular (containing pus).

6. Does the rash associated with spa pool folliculitis appear while you are in the water?

No! It normally takes from eight hours to five days to appear.

7. Does spa pool folliculitis make you physically sick?

Not usually sick, just itchy. Some few people may experience some physical effects such as earaches, sore throat, nausea and vomiting, headache and/or a mild fever.

8. How long will the rash last?

If you have healthy, normal skin, the rash should go away without treatment in seven to ten days. If, however, you have excessively oily or dry skin or have an existing skin condition the rash may last for several weeks.

9. How can you avoid getting spa pool folliculitis?

The best way to avoid spa pool folliculitis is to only use swimming pools, hot tubs and other water sources that you are certain have been treated with the proper pool chemicals and pools that are maintained on a regular basis. It may also help to wear loose fitting bathing suits because putting on a tight fitting bathing suit may cause mild physical injury to hair follicles and leave them more susceptible to infection. Another thing that causes injury to hair follicles is shaving. Women who shave their legs or 'œbikini line'� and are then exposed to the P. aeruginosa bacteria are especially susceptible to spa pool folliculitis. In order to minimize the susceptibility, it is best to use an electric razor rather than a bladed razor or, if using a bladed razor, shave with a very light pressure and shave in the direction of the hair growth. One other tip for avoiding spa pool folliculitis include take a shower as soon as possible after swimming and be sure to wash off any tanning lotions or oils that you used before or during your swim. Oil will trap contaminated pool water and increase your chances of getting the folliculitis rash.

10. How is spa pool folliculitis treated?

A mild case of spa pool folliculitis may go away, untreated, within seven to ten days but may stick around for several weeks. If there is a troublesome associated itch or if the rash appears to be excessively irritated or getting worse instead of better, consult your doctor even before using an over-the-counter anti-itch medication. Your physician may prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic. An improperly treated case of folliculitis or a severe case can get progressively worse and develop into furuncles (boils) and then into carbuncles.

Also, take whatever steps necessary to make sure the responsible pool or hot tub gets treated with the proper chemicals.