Locations:
Search IconSearch

Is Marinating in the Tub With a Bath Bomb Safe for Your Skin?

Weighing the delight (or havoc) for your skin

Woman holding a bath bomb

Bath bombs — those fizzy, scented “party in a bath” additives — are a huge hit, especially with kids. You can buy them everywhere, from dollar stores to high-end department stores. And kids are scouring YouTube for videos on how to make bath bombs. (Because DIY slime is sooo last month.)

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

Bath bombs may be fun for kids and adults alike. But is soaking in a tub that’s been “bombed” safe for your skin?

What’s in a bath bomb?

According to dermatologist Alok Vij, MD, bath bombs are made using a combination of baking soda and citric acid. When mixed with water, those ingredients generally neutralize each other. But bath bombs may contain other substances that can potentially harm your skin, including:

  • Fragrances, either synthetic or from essential oils that give you that I’m-in-Fiji feel.
  • Dyes, whether natural or lab-made, that turn your bath (and tub) another shade.
  • Preservatives, to keep the bombs shelf-stable for longer (hardly necessary when they’re flying off the shelves).
  • Additives like glitter, which may glam your bath, but could be abrasive to the skin.
There aren’t any bath bombs that are totally safe, particularly for people with sensitive skin. Sadly, the size of the bath bomb doesn’t really matter — smaller bombs can have concentrated amounts of potential allergens.

Signs your bath bomb has waged war on your skin

Not all skin is created equal. For some people, a bath bomb is a sensual delight. For others, it’s a recipe for discomfort. The most common signs that your bath bomb is wreaking havoc on your skin include:

  • Redness.
  • Itching.
  • Scaling.

These telltale signs often first show up in skin creases (think behind the knees, or in the groin area) where the harmful substances linger because of the skin-on-skin contact. But for people with known skin sensitivity, these signs may declare themselves on any part of the skin that was submerged in bath water.

Advertisement

“Don’t be fooled by ‘natural ingredients.’ They can also play mischief with your skin,” says Dr. Vij. “For example, common bath bomb ingredients include witch hazel, an astringent that can cause dryness, or cocoa butter, which can fuel the growth of yeast.”

Sometimes, bath additives such as bath bombs and even bubble bath can affect the body’s pH balance. For women and girls, changing the pH of the vagina and surrounding areas can alter bacterial flora and possibly lead to irritation or, worse, a yeast infection. (A not-fun price to pay for a few minutes of fizzy bath glory.)

Let your skin be the guide on how to safely use a bath bomb

Dr. Vij suggests those who are allergic to ingredients in bath bombs avoid them altogether. “However, if people don’t have a history of atopic dermatitis (commonly called eczema) or a known history of sensitivity to fragrances or dyes — the occasional bath bomb is fine. But I recommend staying in the water just until fingers and toes start to prune up,” says Dr. Vij. “That’s different for everyone, but usually 10 to 15 minutes is enough time.”

And rinse off after the bath to remove the residual chemical layer.

“The longer you’re exposed to chemicals and known allergens, the more likely you are to develop an allergy,” says Dr. Vij. “My daughters love bath bombs, but I remind them to take a nice rinse to clean off their skin and keep it healthy after they’ve soaked.”

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Caregiver drying off toddler with a towel in front of bathtub
September 11, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
How Often Should You Wash Your Bath Towels?

Wash your bath towels at least once a week, and washcloths at least twice a week

Person inspecting sweat marks on their underarms on their shirt
August 30, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Why Do I Sweat So Much? 9 Reasons

Exercise, weather, anxiety, hormone changes and spicy foods can cause you to perspire more than usual

Person sitting, shaving their leg with shaving cream
August 30, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Shaving vs. Waxing: What’s Better for Your Skin?

Your hair removal routine will depend on your pain tolerance, budget and skin sensitivities

Smiling person with double chin
August 15, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
How Do I Get Rid of My Pesky Double Chin?

Seeing double (chins) when taking selfies? From exercises to surgery, you can reduce or eliminate chin fat, but there’s no overnight solution

Sweaty construction worker in yellow hard hat drinking water from a plastic bottle
August 14, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
8 Methods To Help You Stop Sweating

Stay cool by wearing breathable clothes, eating certain foods and using an antiperspirant

Person spraying antipersperant into their armpit at home, kitty on chair
August 13, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Antiperspirant vs. Deodorant: What’s the Difference?

One reduces the amount of sweat, while the other masks body odor

Person relaxing, head back, eyes closed, sitting in patch of purple flora
August 9, 2024/Allergies
5 Lifestyle Tips for Managing Your Chronic Hives

Lifestyle adjustments like stress reduction, wearing softer clothing and staying out of the sun can help manage flares

Cold water handle in tub with water cascading over it
August 8, 2024/Allergies
How To Manage Frustrating Chronic Hives Flare-Ups

Your provider can develop a personalized treatment plan, which may include prescription medications, antihistamines and corticosteroids

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad