Hot Springs and Your Complexion: What That Soak is Really Doing to Your Skin

Hot springs aren't just a treat for your whole self—they totally change how your skin acts. Seriously. Before you jump in, you should know what those minerals are actually doing for (or to!) your face. Here's the lowdown on the different types.

1. Bicarbonate Springs – Your Skin's Soft Mode

The Lowdown: These are super gentle and slightly alkaline. They basically act like a natural skin softener, helping you get rid of that dead, dull stuff and giving you a major glow-up.

Best for: If your skin is usually dry, rough, or mature.

Quick Tip: Don't skip this part! You absolutely have to moisturize afterward to lock in all that good stuff.

2. Sulfur Springs – Strong, But You Gotta Be Smart

The Lowdown: This water is powerful, which is great if your skin is acting up. The natural sulfur fights off bacteria and gets your blood moving, which is key for clearing up your skin.

Best for: Anyone with oily skin or acne issues.

Heads Up: This stuff is potent! If your skin is sensitive, you might get irritated. Also, don't soak too long—keep your time in the water short.

3. Iron-Rich Springs – Get That Inner Glow

The Lowdown: Okay, these might leave a slightly reddish tint, but they are amazing at warming you up and helping out a dull complexion. You get that natural flush from the inside out.

Best for: If your skin looks dull or you need a little circulation boost.

Quick Tip: Just rinse off super well and then use a rich nourishing cream to finish the job.

4. Acidic Springs – High Risk, High Reward

The Lowdown: These are intense—like, really intense. They can totally dissolve the gunk in your pores, but they can also be harsh on your skin. Use them with extreme caution.

Best for: Only for oily skin with serious clogged pores.

Heads Up: If your skin is sensitive or dry, you should seriously avoid these entirely. It's not worth the potential trouble.

Post-Soak Skincare: The Simple Routine You Can't Skip

You did the hard part, now don't mess up the end! Your skin is sensitive right after a soak, so here’s the quick routine:

• Rinse off with fresh, cool water when you get out.

• Apply moisturizer immediately (like, within two minutes of getting dry).

• Skip any exfoliation or products with strong acids.

• Avoid heavy sun and wearing a ton of makeup that day. Just let your skin breathe!