A beer bath is a warm soak infused with hops, barley, and herbs, rather than beer you actually drink. This treatment combines the relaxing effects of warm water with nutrients from beer ingredients to promote healthy skin and hair, plus overall wellness.

Whether you’re curious about spa treatments or seeking a unique self-care ritual, a beer bath offers a calming and rejuvenating experience. It can help alleviate stress, sore muscles, and dry skin.

In this article, we’ll explain what a beer bath is, its benefits, and how to enjoy one at a spa or at home.

What is a beer bath?

A beer bath is usually a tub of warm water infused with hops, barley, and seasonal herbs. It’s a spa treatment, rather than a tub of fermented beer, and it doesn’t contain any yeast.

At Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver, the beer bath hydrotherapy experience takes place in a large tub with a therapeutic herb blend. The bath encourages relaxation, relieves muscle and joint tension, and nourishes the skin and hair.

Beer Bath History

Bathing in beer dates back over a thousand years, with origins in the Czech Republic. The Duke of Bohemia reportedly bathed in “cold brewery sludge” in 921. Since then, beer baths have spread across Eastern Europe and are now available globally, including in Austria, Poland, Germany, Spain, Iceland, and the United States.

Historically, beer ingredients like hops and barley were valued for hygiene and wellness benefits. Today, many beer spas are found in Prague, which are often lively, while other experiences focus on relaxation.

Benefits of Bathing in Beer

Beer bath benefits come from both the warm water and beer ingredients. The nutrients in hops, barley, and herbs, when combined with hydrotherapy, promote overall wellness.

Enhances Skin

Warm water opens pores, allowing nutrients and antioxidants to absorb into the skin. Beer’s ingredients offer several skin benefits like hydration, softer texture, and natural radiance. A beer bath also helps wash away toxins and maintain smooth, healthy skin.

Reduces Stress

Research shows that soaking in a warm bath can help relieve fatigue, stress, and pain. Hops act as a natural sedative, while herbal blends, such as lavender and citrus, promote calm. Absorbing these ingredients through your skin, which is the body’s largest organ, enhances relaxation. You can also experience better sleep as a result. 

Improves Circulation

Warm, infused water encourages healthy blood flow and circulation. As blood and oxygen flow easily through the body, your organs can properly function properly. This helps your body heal damaged cells and removes waste created by different organs, leading to better focus, sleep, and immune health.

Reduces Muscle Tension

Athletes and active individuals especially benefit from taking beer baths. During a warm bath, better circulation helps loosen muscles and connective tissue. Warm water combined with beer ingredients helps release spasms and tension, bringing comfort and natural pain relief.

Relieves Joint Pain

Hydrotherapy eases pressure on joints, which acts as a mild anti-inflammatory and may relieve arthritis discomfort. The nutrients in beer ingredients further support joint relaxation, helping to improve flexibility, ease movement, and enhance overall comfort.

Revitalizes Hair

A beer bath is a natural way to nourish and strengthen your hair. Barley and hops provide Vitamin B and protein, which help reduce frizz, boost shine, and strengthen strands. Dipping your hair into the warm, infused water supports healthier, more manageable locks.

Who Shouldn’t Take a Beer Bath

Most people can safely enjoy beer baths, but some should take precautions. If you’re pregnant or taking medication, consult your healthcare provider first. Spas can usually adjust water temperature to suit your needs. If a beer bath isn’t recommended, consider other relaxing spa treatments instead.

Where to Take a Beer Bath in The United States

Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver offers an award-winning beer spa experience, with locations in Five Points and Highlands Ranch. You can enjoy private Beer Therapy Rooms for two, or multiple rooms for larger groups. Various packages offer something for everyone, whether you want to enjoy a solo spa day, romantic date, or fun group outing. 

Start with an infrared sauna to gently detox, then soak in a warm bath infused with hops, barley, and nourishing herbs. Thousands of tiny bubbles in the bath enhance relaxation. 

The spa also features a self-serve taproom with locally brewed craft beer, wine, tea, cider, and kombucha, which you can enjoy during your soak. For ultimate relaxation, pair your beer bath with a Zero Gravity Massage.

How to Take a Beer Bath at Home

If you want to try the beer bath experience at home, try Oakwell Cosmetics Herbal Beer Bath Tea — made with beneficial hops, barley, and herbs.

To take a relaxing beer bath at home:

• Light a relaxing candle for spa-like vibes
• Fill tub with warm water
• Place the beer bath tea bag in water
• Soak for 20 minutes

You can also enhance the experience with complementary products like Calming Beer Bath Salts, Beer Body Wash, and a Waffle Bath Robe.

Beer Bath Hydrotherapy: FAQs

Learn more about taking beer baths with answers to common questions below.

Do you actually bathe in beer?

You don’t literally bathe in beer. Instead, think of it like a beer tea soak, where warm water is infused with beer’s natural ingredients.

Is there yeast in the baths?

There’s no yeast in Oakwell Beer Spa’s beer baths, and the mixture isn’t fermented. This means the bath is gentle on most people’s skin, doesn’t bubble like beer, and contains no alcohol.

What are the benefits of beer bath hydrotherapy?

Not only is soaking in warm water relaxing, but beer baths can improve skin and hair, support circulation, and ease aches.

Is a beer bath better alone or with someone?

Like most spa treatments, you can enjoy your bath alone or with a friend. Oakwell Beer Spa’s beer baths are designed for two people, whether with a friend or a significant other. You can also book multiple rooms for a larger group.

Are there rules for taking beer baths?

The most important rule for taking a beer bath is to enjoy your experience. Some beer spas, especially the popular ones in Prague, are more party-oriented. However, Oakwell Beer Spa encourages a relaxing experience and asks guests to be mindful of others who are enjoying a peaceful spa day.

Beer Bath Hydrotherapy: Conclusion

A beer bath combines hydrotherapy with beer ingredients for a relaxing, nourishing soak. You can enjoy this experience at Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver or recreate it at home with Oakwell Cosmetics products.