Soaking in a hot tub is a great way to relax and rejuvenate your body, mind, and spirit. The warm waters can be especially beneficial after a long day at work or a cold walk home in the winter. There is just something extra special about the warmth on your skin and the sounds of the bubbling water around you in a hot tub, that soothes the soul and refreshes the spirit. A warm soak can be so relaxing that you may even be tempted to head off to bed right after a dip in the hot tub. But is it ok to just towel off after a hot tub or should you take a shower after using a hot tub?
A good rule of thumb is that it is important to shower after being in a hot tub. Not showering after using a hot tub can leave chemicals on your skin, causing it to dry out or potentially be harmed. If the hot tub is not using harsh chemicals, it may be less important to shower after using it.
Let’s take a closer look into why it’s important to take a shower after a soak in the hot tub. We’ll also dive into some other things that you can do to take care of your skin after being in the hot tub.
Should I Shower Right After a Soak in the Hot Tub?
Because it is important to keep hot tub water very clean, chemicals are added to the water. Sanitation levels should be checked at least twice a week and also anytime before you plan on using your hot tub. The most common way to test the water is to use test strips. To reach proper pH and total alkalinity levels, you may need to add a pH increase or decrease. The instructions that came with your hot tub will explain exactly how to measure and add what needs to be added in order to reach the proper levels.
These chemicals that keep your hot tub water at healthy levels are also the reason why it’s important to rinse off after soaking in a hot tub. An unhealthy chemical residue may be left on your skin if you do not shower. Showering thoroughly with warm water and soap, then rinsing your skin will help to reduce the chance of chemicals being left on your skin.
As soon as you exit the hot tub, this is the time to go to the shower to rinse off. Use warm, not hot water. Hot water can take off the natural oils contained on the outside layer of your skin. These oils help to protect your skin from contaminants. That’s why it’s important to only use warm water, not hot. Also, use soap and lather up before rinsing off. The soap will help to wash off any remaining chlorine.
Develop a routine until it becomes second nature to shower as soon as you exit the hot tub. Remember in this order: exit the hot tub, rinse, lather, rinse again and you will be all set.
Additional Ways To Keep Your Skin Healthy After Soaking In a Hot Tub
Now that you know the basics of skincare when you exit a hot tub, let’s look at some additional practices that will help your skin to stay healthy. Remember that skin is the largest but often neglected organ of the human body. It will pay off, in the long run, to take the best care of your skin. You may find that you even enjoy taking the time to pamper your skin.
Dry Off Gently
A good rule to remember when using a towel on your skin is to pat, not rub it dry. Rubbing can be an abrasive practice that may remove natural oils that are beneficial to your skin. Instead of rubbing your skin dry, gently pat it after showering.
Moisturize
Applying natural moisturizers after a shower will help to retain the moisture level in your skin. There are also a variety of natural moisturizers on the market that use a combination of ingredients known for locking in moisture. Below I’ll cover some of the top moisturizers that you may want to consider using after your post-hot tub shower.
Aloe
Known for reducing skin damage, Aloe is high in vitamins A, C, E, and B12. Aloe also contains enzymes that help to reduce inflammation. With a water content of roughly 90%, Aloe is a perfect choice for using after a shower to hydrate your skin.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is similar to aloe with its anti-inflammatory properties. With its natural thick texture, shea butter is often used on hands and lips, but it can also be applied to the entire body. Gently rub in the shea butter using your hands.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is rich in fatty acids. This quality makes cocoa butter a superb skin moisturizer. The fat will form a protective barrier over the skin while also holding in moisture. Cocoa butter has been touted to improve blood flow to the skin and also slow the aging process of the skin. With qualities such as these, it’s no wonder that cocoa butter is a favorite moisturizer for many people. The sweet and nutty scent of cocoa butter is also hard to beat.
Olive Oil
One of the top oils known for locking in moisture can be found in the cupboards of most kitchens. There’s no need to run to the beauty section at the grocery store when you need a skin moisturizer if you have olive oil in your pantry. Used for centuries on the skin and for cooking, this natural moisturizer is rich in Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants which are known for preventing early aging of the skin. If you choose to use olive oil, reach for the extra virgin type that is cold-pressed and unrefined. That way you won’t be getting the preservatives.
Keep Water Levels In Check
Taking the time to test your hot tub water and adding or decreasing the pH level will benefit your skin. Unhealthy hot tub water levels can cause a host of problems for your skin and health, that a shower can’t simply rinse away. Make sure to read and follow the instructions that your hot tub came with and call your manufacturer if you have water quality questions. And remember that hot tub water should always be clear, not cloudy.
Don’t Stay In The Hot Tub Over The Recommended Time
There is a reason that it’s recommended to take a break and exit your hot tub after 20 minutes. Staying in longer can cause blood flow issues with unwelcome consequences including fainting, nausea, or vomiting. A prolonged stay is also not good for your skin. Stay in only within the healthy time frame so that you can enjoy—not suffer—from a hot tub experience.
Stay Hydrated
Make sure to drink adequate water before soaking in a hot tub. How much water you should drink will vary from individual to individual. But a simple preventative measure is to drink a full glass of water before entering a hot tub. And remember to drink a glass of water when you exit the hot tub. Because you are already wet in a hot tub, you may not notice the amount of perspiration happening while soaking. That’s why it’s extra important to stay hydrated while using a hot tub.