What is beer bathing, the new wellness trend making waves? Is it good for you? – Firstpost

Imagine soaking in a warm tub, surrounded by the rich aroma of your favourite bath salts and essential oils, but with one unique addition: your favourite brew!

Welcome to the world of beer bathing.

While the new wellness trend has been gaining a lot of attention in the spa industry, it isn’t as modern as one might think.

The practice dates back to centuries, particularly in Eastern Europe, with the earliest records dating back to 921 AD. The Duke of Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic, was known to enjoy cold beer baths. This practice remains popular in Prague and has expanded to various locations in the UK and US.

“Derived from European traditions, this spa treatment incorporates the therapeutic benefits of Malt, Hops, and minerals salts, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere designed to soothe both the body and mind,” The Norfolk Mead, hotel which recently opened UK’s first beer spa, said on its website.

People who have been bathing in oak hot tubs, full of beer, claim that the sudsy soak is more than just novelty. Here’s a closer look at the wellness trend and its potential benefits.

What are some benefits of beer bathing?

While advocates of beer bathing claim a multitude of benefits for both the skin and overall health, experts are beginning to acknowledge their experiences.

Dr. Hannah Kopelman, DO, a dermatologist at Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery, shared with Woman’s World magazine, “Beer baths have been touted for their potential skin benefits, thanks to certain ingredients found in beer.”

“Hops, a primary component of beer, are rich in xanthohumul and humulone, antioxidants that can help combat free radicals, potentially improving skin health. Yeast, another key ingredient, contains B vitamins and can help maintain skin’s moisture levels, which might be beneficial for dry skin conditions,” she explained.

She further added, “Some proponents also claim that the acids in beer can help to exfoliate the skin, potentially aiding in the management of acne or eczema.”

Beyond skin benefits, enthusiasts of this trend assert that beer baths offer more holistic advantages. According to Screenshot, soaking in beer can relieve stress, improve circulation, and soothe muscle aches and pains.

Moreover, the combination of the bath’s warmth and the therapeutic properties of beer’s ingredients creates a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, making it much more than just a quirky wellness fad.

DIY Beer bath at home

For those curious about trying beer bathing without a trip to a specialised spa, a DIY beer bath can be easily prepared at home. However, Hannah Kopelman, DO, recommends doing so in moderation—no more than once a week—to avoid potential skin irritation.

“When making your own beer bath, use room temperature beer and skip hot water, which can strip your skin’s natural oils,” she advised.

When it comes to choosing the beer, Kopelman told the American weekly magazine, “Any type of beer can be used, but darker beers with higher hop content might offer more antioxidant benefits.” She also suggests doing a skin patch test first by swiping some beer on your inner arm to see how your skin reacts before submerging your entire body.

To create your own beer bath, simply add over 450 ml (16 oz) of beer to a tub of warm water, then relax for about 20 minutes.

Post-bath care is crucial. “Rinse off thoroughly with water after a beer bath to remove any residue from the skin,” said Kopelman. She also recommends moisturising your skin afterwards to help “counteract any potential drying effects from the alcohol.”

Risks associated with beer baths

While the idea of beer baths might be appealing, there are several risks to consider.

Kopelman warns, “Individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to any of the components in beer, such as hops or yeast, might experience irritation or allergic reactions. And the alcohol content in beer could potentially be drying to the skin, exacerbating dryness or causing irritation in some individuals.”

Additionally, Kopelman highlights, “It’s important to note that while these components have beneficial properties, there is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy of beer baths specifically in treating these [skin] conditions.” She advises opting for well-established wellness baths, like oatmeal or Epsom salt baths, which have proven benefits for treating skin issues.

Nevertheless, if you’re keen on trying something novel for your skincare routine or simply want to enjoy the unique experience of a beer bath, this brew-tiful trend offers a fun and interesting twist to traditional self-care.

With input from agencies