What Is a Beer Bath and Where Can You Take One in the US?

When you were a kid, did you ever love something so much you just wanted to take a bath in it? Maybe a chocolate or ice cream bath? Well, whether you love beer or you’re craving a rejuvenating day at the spa, a beer bath might be exactly what you’re looking for! Bathing in beer is a concept that’s been around for many years and the experience varies depending on where you are in the world. The most enjoyable beer bath is one that offers ultimate relaxation and various wellness benefits.  Continue reading to learn all about this awesome experience, its benefits, and where you can enjoy a beer-infused bath!

What is a beer bath?

You may wonder if a beer bath quite literally entails beer being poured into a tub. But, that’s not necessarily the case! They can actually take different forms. The kind of beer bath we know and love is when a cedar tub of water is infused with beer’s main ingredients, hops and barley, and a seasonal herbal blend. Herbs such as lavender, chamomile, peppermint, and calendula slowly brew as water fills in a tub. Think of it like soaking in a giant beer bubble bath!  Learn more about Beer Bath Hydrotherapy here!

Beer Bath History

While a beer bath may sound like a new experience, the original beer spa treatment took place in 921. At that time, the King of the Duke of Bohemia, now the Czech Republic, was known for his love of ‘cold brewery sludge baths.' Since then, bathing in beer has become a popular part of Eastern European culture.  For thousands of years, ingredients in beer baths have been used as a natural herbal medicine that provides hygiene and wellness advantages. You can find many beer spas in Prague, which are mostly known for their party atmosphere. Other beer-inspired spas are also popping up in Austria, Poland, Germany, Spain, Iceland, and now the US.

What are the health benefits of beer bath therapy?

What is the purpose of having a beer bath? Not only is it relaxing to kick back in a bubbly beer bath, but it can actually be good for you!  Beer’s main ingredients, hops and malted barley, offer several health benefits when used topically. Hops are a natural sedative that contain calming and anti-aging components. On the other hand, barley consists of antioxidants and vitamins that nourish the skin, hair, and nails. Many spas offer Hydrotherapy, or water therapy, where you submerge your body into a tub of hot or cold water. This is known to provide pain relief and relaxation. Beer spas take this experience to the next level.

Enhances Skin

The antioxidants and nutrients found in beer ingredients are great for the skin. As you soak in warm water, your pores begin to open up which allows you to absorb the nutrients in your bath. These nutrients help smooth out fine lines and wrinkles while washing away skin toxins and bacteria. Be prepared to leave the spa with refreshed skin that feels great!

Reduces Stress

Many of us know how refreshing it feels to take a nice, long bath. In fact, research shows that soaking in a bath helps with fatigue, stress, and pain. When you add hops, a natural sedative, you get to take your relaxation experience up a notch. Absorbing beer ingredients and herbal blends into your skin, your body’s largest organ, allows you to unwind in the best way.  Not only do herbal ingredients such as lavender and citrus smell nice, but they also have medicinal effects with stress-relief being one of them. 

Improves Circulation

A warm beer-inspired bath is ideal for improving your blood circulation. Being submerged in warm water gets your blood flowing by allowing your blood vessels to expand. This process of healthy blood circulation is crucial for optimal health. As your blood and oxygen are able to easily flow through the body, your organs can function properly. Your body will be able to heal damaged cells and remove waste that’s created by different organs. This results in being able to more easily focus, sleep, and recover from illnesses.

Reduces Muscle Tension

During your warm bath, your muscle tension is reduced as your circulation improves. As your blood flows and increases the elasticity of connective tissue, spasms are loosened and tension is released from around your muscles.

Relieves Joint Pain

Warm water hydrotherapy is a popular method for relieving joint pain because it acts as an anti-inflammatory. As you soak in warm water, the force of gravity that’s pushing on the joint is released and your flexibility improves. Additionally, the nutrients found in beer-infused baths relieve pain that's caused by joint issues.

Refreshes Hair

Do you ever look for special shampoos or salon treatments that will strengthen your hair? Look no further! The vitamins found in barley that’s infused into beer bath water are often used in hair treatments. For nourished hair that shines, be sure to dip your hair into the water during your Beer Bath Hydrotherapy.

5 Tips for Taking a Beer Bath

Now that you know the benefits of taking a beer-infused bath, you’re probably ready to book your next spa day! For a seamless and enjoyable experience, here are some things you can do before, during, and after the treatment.

Wear What You’re Comfortable In

The whole idea of a beer bath is that you get to kick back and unwind. Wear whatever makes you comfortable, whether it be a bathing suit or your birthday suit! Keep in mind that the more skin that’s exposed during your bath, the more nutrients you’re able to soak up.

Hydrate Before, During, and After

Many spa treatments can be dehydrating, especially when beer, wine, and cider are on tap. Hydrating before, during, and after your treatment allows you to enjoy the whole experience while reaping the health benefits. Drink water before and after your visit to the spa.  And, of course, enjoy a local craft beer or beverage of your choice while you take your beer bath. For the best experience, we recommend not overindulging in beer!

If You Don't Drink Beer, No Worries

If you don't drink beer, that's okay! Most beer spas offer other tasty beverages for you to enjoy while you take your bath. And, keep in mind that while the bath is beer-inspired and it does contain beer ingredients, there's no yeast and the mixture isn't fermented.

Enjoy It Solo or With a Friend

Like with most spa services, you can enjoy bathing in beer alone or with a friend. Whether you're looking for some peace and quiet or quality time with a loved one, a relaxing beer bath is perfect for both! Some beer spas offer party options, too.

Don't Forget to Relax

The most important part of your beer bath experience is that you relax. If taking a beer bath is a new adventure for you, just know that all you have to do is kick back and soak in the bubbly suds while stress melts away. And, don’t forget to take the edge off by sipping on a cold beer or other delicious beverage during your beer bath.

Where to Bathe in Beer (in the US)

If you’re located in the United States and you’re looking to enjoy a beer bath, Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver, Colorado is a modern, urban oasis that offers a cool experience unlike any other! Oakwell Beer Spa is both a craft beer taproom and modern day spa. [caption id="attachment_2916" align="aligncenter" width="580"]beer bath Oakwell Beer Spa's Hydrotherapy Beer Bath[/caption]   Relax in a cedar hydrotherapy tub that’s filled with hops, barley, and herbs. As you soak, the tub’s air bubbler system creates thousands of tiny calming bubbles. And, not only is there a beer bath treatment, but you can also enjoy other day spa services including an infrared sauna and Zero Gravity Massage chair. Oakwell Beer Spa’s baths take place in a private Beer Therapyâ„¢ Room. Enjoy it solo or bring a friend. If you’re new to this kind of spa experience, the friendly Beer Therapists love welcoming newbies and answering any questions! Ready to try out the beer bath experience? Book your Beer Therapyâ„¢ Room at Oakwell Beer Spa!