What should you know about folliculitis and hot tubs?

Small red bumps, pus-filled spots, itching, or tenderness may appear where swimwear held water against the skin. Symptoms can start after using a hot tub, spa pool, or warm shared pool. The warm, moist setting can allow germs to multiply, and tight clothing may keep them against follicles. See [Folliculitis](/conditions/folliculitis/) for broader causes and patterns. Similar-looking [Skin Bumps](/symptoms/skin-bumps/) or [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/) can have different causes.

Stop using the suspected water source until it has been checked and cleaned. Shower after swimming, change out of wet swimwear promptly, and wash towels and clothing that touched the area. Avoid picking, shaving, or scrubbing the bumps while the skin is irritated. A clinician can decide whether observation, a prescribed [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/), or [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) is appropriate; do not use leftover medication.

Arrange medical advice if the rash is spreading, becoming painful, repeatedly returning, or failing to settle after avoiding the suspected exposure. Seek prompt care for fever, rapidly increasing redness, marked swelling, severe pain, or drainage from a deeper lump. These features can indicate a more significant skin infection rather than a mild surface reaction.

Could this be hot-tub folliculitis or another rash? Should a sample be tested? Which products should I pause, and when can I swim or use a spa pool again?