Doctor Reveals What Soaking In A Hot Tub Is Really Doing To Your Skin

With over 20 years of clinical experience and a specialist focus on injectables and skin rejuvenation, Dr Thomas informed Platinum Spas about the following topics.

Can you soak in a hot tub after getting Botox?

Only if you wait it out. You’ll need to hold off for at least 12 hours (and ideally a full 24) before jumping back into the bubbles. Dr Owen Thomas said,

“Any sort of injection creates tiny punctures on the skin’s surface. Heat from a hot tub increases blood flow, which can raise the risk of bruising.”

While rare, there’s also a small chance of bacterial exposure if hot tubs aren’t well-maintained. Dr Owen adds,

“Hot tubs that aren’t well maintained may contain bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which could irritate the skin post-treatment.”

His advice? Be patient. “Waiting 24 hours gives your skin time to settle and reduces the risk of swelling or irritation. It’s a simple step that helps your Botox work exactly as it should!”

Can you go in a hot tub after laser hair removal?

Not right away – it’s best to wait at least 48 hours. Dr Thomas explains:

“Laser heats and disables the hair follicles. Even though the skin isn’t broken, it’s often left red and sensitive, like a mild sunburn.”

Heading into a hot tub too soon can lead to irritation or, in some cases, folliculitis (a localised skin infection). Waiting a couple of days helps your skin calm down, keeping your results on track.

Can you use a hot tub after dermal fillers?

It’s best to skip the spa for 48 hours after dermal fillers. While fillers work below the surface, the injection process still creates tiny entry points, meaning your skin needs a little recovery time. Dr Owen Thomas explains,

“After filler treatments, the surrounding tissue may be slightly swollen or tender. Hot water and steam can make this worse by dilating blood vessels, which increases swelling and bruising.”

Dr Thomas recommends waiting at least 48 hours before diving back in. He adds,

“Let your skin settle and allow the filler to integrate properly, your results will thank you.”

Can you go in a hot tub after surgery?

This is a big no from Doctor Thomas, who said, 

“Whether it’s a minor skin procedure or something more invasive, post-surgical wounds and hot tubs are a dangerous combo. Moisture softens the edges of surgical wounds and can delay healing, or even cause them to reopen. The infection risk is real. Pseudomonas, a bacteria occasionally found in hot tubs, can be particularly harmful to open wounds.”

So, how long should you wait? At least two weeks, and possibly longer depending on your surgery. Dr Owen Thomas recommends you to always check with your surgeon before resuming baths, hot tubs, or swimming. Showers are usually fine after a few days, but full submersion is not.

So, are hot tubs safe after beauty treatments?

Yes, but only if you time it right. When used sensibly, hot tubs are a fantastic way to unwind, however, timing is everything. Dr Thomas commented,

“Even the most advanced treatments require a little downtime, and hot tubs, with their heat and bacteria risks, can sometimes interfere with healing.”

Follow post-treatment guidelines, listen to your skin, and don’t rush back into the bubbles too soon. A little patience goes a long way toward glowing results.

For further guidance and hot tub best practices, visit the Platinum Spas blog.