Science
Do Hot Springs Have Health Benefits? What the Evidence Says
Last updated October 22, 2026 · 2 min read
Hot springs have been promoted as cures for almost everything. Many old resorts were built on claims that would not stand up today. So what does modern research actually say?
What warm water does
Soaking in warm water raises body temperature, widens blood vessels and lowers blood pressure for a while. Buoyancy takes weight off joints. Most people find this relaxing.
Possible benefits
The scientific term for bathing in mineral water is balneotherapy. Research suggests:
- Muscle and joint pain: some trials find short-term improvement in pain for osteoarthritis and low back pain, though many studies are small and hard to blind.
- Skin: mineral-rich water, such as at the Dead Sea, has been studied for psoriasis, with some positive results.
- Sleep and stress: warm baths before bed can help people fall asleep faster.
Reviews generally conclude that the evidence is promising but limited, and that warmth, rest and the setting likely explain much of the effect.
Claims to be skeptical about
- Detoxification through the skin
- Curing chronic diseases
- Radioactive water as a health benefit, a claim common a century ago
Risks
- Overheating, fainting and dehydration
- Burns from very hot water
- Infections from untreated water, including the rare amoeba Naegleria fowleri
- Falls on slippery rocks
Who should ask a doctor first
People who are pregnant, have heart conditions, low or high blood pressure, or take medicines that affect heat tolerance.
This article is general information, not medical advice. See our safety guide and soak temperature guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are hot springs good for you?
Warm water can help you relax, ease sore muscles and may improve sleep. Some studies suggest mineral baths help certain joint and skin conditions, but the evidence is limited and hot water also carries risks.
Do minerals in hot springs get absorbed through the skin?
Very little. Healthy skin is a strong barrier. Most benefits people feel likely come from warmth, buoyancy and relaxation rather than absorbed minerals.
Who should avoid hot springs?
People who are pregnant, have heart disease, uncontrolled blood pressure or open wounds should check with a doctor. Young children overheat quickly.