Spa Pool Acne – you might have come across this term a number of times while trying to know about the different types of acne and their causes. Spa pool acne is actually the common name for a skin condition known as “pseudomonas folliculitis”. It is also known by the name “spa pool folliculitis”. Spa pool acne is a skin condition caused by an external source of bacterial infection. It is a type of adult acne and can be treated with mild herbal acne medication, oral or topical antibiotics.

Spa Pool Folliculitis is different from acne

Even though the manifestation of spa pool acne might look very similar to regular acne, it is not one and the same thing. Acne is caused by the infection of P. acnes bacteria. These bacteria normally reside in healthy skin and causes breakouts when the pores get clogged and bacteria build up. On the other hand, spa pool acne is caused by factors external to the skin-residing P. acnes bacteria. The P. aeruginosa bacteria are the major cause for this condition. P. aeruginosa is usually found in public swimming pools, hot tubs, and Jacuzzis that are not well maintained.

Water in public venues gets infected with spa pool acne-causing bacteria when the bacteria from people’s bodies enter the water. When the warm water is not properly disinfected and treated with chlorine or other chemicals, the bacteria build up and infect the skin of other people using the same water.

Symptoms and Treatment

Spa pool acne manifests itself in the form of small red bumps and rashes on parts of the body that were covered by a bathing suit. These red and itchy rashes take about 8 hours to 5 days before they surface. Few people have also reported headache, vomiting, sore throat, earaches, and a mild fever. The symptoms usually disappear in a week’s time. But those people with problematic skin might have to suffer longer.

In such a case, you can consult a physician for an over-the-counter acne medication. Most acne medications have antibacterial agents that will help to eliminate any existing bacteria and cure the rash. That is why acne medications can be used to treat spa pool acne. You can also try natural remedies for acne such as application of aloe gel, neem juice, or use a vinegar based compression treatment. Wear loose cotton clothing and avoid using oil-based products. Get lots of fresh air and use an antibacterial soap or body wash. Most importantly make sure that you avoid using public pools for some time and ensure that the next time you visit a pool or take a hot tub, it has been properly disinfected.