HOT TUB RASH MAYBE?

Hi,
I went in a hot tub last week Wednesday night.
By Friday night I had a pretty big rash on my butt, all over my stomach and upper arms...
I think its hot tub rash from looking online!
How can I tell if its healing... The bumps at first were really red and raised. Now they are darker and flat, but dont look as irritated?
Can someone tell me what is going on?
Are they healing?
Thanks so much

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

From the symptoms, it sounds like hot tub folliculitis. It is an infection of the hair follicle with Pseudomonas bacteria and is most commonly seen in people who bathe in a contaminated spa, swimming pool, or hot tub.

I would suggest that you apply calamine lotion and a simple antimicrobial cream like Bactroban or Neosporin on the rash and keep the area clean. For the itching antihistaminics like Benadryl can be taken. If the symptoms persist then topical steroids and oral antibiotics may be needed. Please consult a dermatologist in that case.

I hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts. Kind regards.