There aren’t many studies about using a diluted bleach bath for psoriasis, but some say it may be helpful for itchy skin, inflammation, skin infections, and eczema.

A bleach bath is not a bath in bleach, but rather a regular bath with just a little bit of bleach mixed in. Bleach baths themselves aren’t harmful. If done right, bathing in one is not unlike swimming in a chlorinated pool.

There isn’t a lot of literature specifically endorsing a diluted bleach bath for psoriasis, but there are many studies that find them helpful for itchy skin, inflammation, skin infections, and eczema.

It is important to note that undiluted bleach can cause burns. If you get straight bleach on your skin, you should rinse it off immediately with water and wipe the area off with something absorbent, such as a sponge, and use gloves if needed.

When to seek medical attention

Call the Poison Control hotline at 800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care clinic if you experience bleach burns (raised red welts) or develop symptoms of shock, such as:

Some research indicates that bleach baths can help reduce itchiness, inflammation, and scales. They may also improve sleep quality and help the skin retain moisture.

While the above attributes can be beneficial for those with psoriasis, it is important to note that psoriasis was not specifically mentioned in this particular study.

Bleach baths, if diluted correctly, aren’t harmful unless:

  • you take them too often
  • your skin is very dry
  • the ratio of bleach to water is too strong
  • you stay in them too long
  • you have another condition that could make you sensitive to the effects of bleach
  • the bath is too hot, which could lead to a psoriasis flare-up

If you have psoriasis and are interested in trying a bleach bath, it is important to speak with your dermatologist before trying one. They can advise you on whether it is appropriate for you and how often you should do it.

In general, warm, appropriately diluted bleach baths are safe. However, some people should avoid them.

These include:

  • children younger than 2 years
  • people with very dry, sensitive skin
  • people with bleach allergies
  • people who have open sores, cuts, or wounds
  • those sensitive to bleach fumes

Bleach baths may also dry out your skin, so it’s important to rinse thoroughly afterward and apply an appropriate lotion or moisturizer.

The National Eczema Association suggests bleach baths for those with moderate to severe eczema to help with inflammation and reduce the chances of bacterial infections.

The association recommends the following for eczema, which you may be able try at home for psoriasis, provided your dermatologist has approved:

  • plain, fragrance-free bleach
  • half a cup per a standard bathtub full of water (around 80 gallons), a quarter cup for half a bathtub, or 1 tablespoon per gallon of water for smaller baths
  • a 10-minute soak at most, but discuss with a dermatologist or other healthcare professional first
  • rinse off afterward

Before taking a bleach bath, speak with your healthcare professional and discuss which moisturizer to use.

Bleach baths are warm baths with a little plain household bleach mixed in. The result is a soak that’s less chlorinated than most pool water but that has antimicrobial properties.

There’s evidence that they may help prevent skin infections and relieve itching and inflammation related to some skin conditions, such as eczema.

If you want to try a bleach bath, talk with your dermatologist first. They can advise you on whether or not it would be helpful with your specific needs in mind.