Yerin Ha Developed Folliculitis Filming “Bridgerton”’s Steamy Bathtub Sex Scene for 7 Hours: ‘Hives All Over My Body’

Yerin Ha, a rising star known for her role in Netflix’s acclaimed series “Bridgerton,” has revealed an unusual consequence of filming a bathtub sex scene alongside her co-star Luke Thompson. During a recent appearance on Capital Breakfast, the actress shared details of a rather uncomfortable experience she endured while preparing for a steamy moment between her character Sophie and Thompson’s Benedict.

Ha explained that in an effort to ensure the comfort of her intimacy wear, she applied baby powder to her skin. However, this preparation did not go as planned. After spending an extensive six to seven hours submerged in water for the scene, she developed hives all over her body and a condition known as folliculitis, which required treatment with steroid cream.

“I think it was a combination of baby powder and the bath water,” the 28-year-old actress reflected. Her admission not only highlights the challenges actors face while creating intimate scenes but also reveals the behind-the-scenes realities of filming such moments.

Folliculitis is a skin condition caused by infected or inflamed hair follicles, resulting in itchy bumps on the skin’s surface. Experts from the Cleveland Clinic note that several factors can lead to its development, including improper hygiene practices following sweating or using inadequately maintained hot tubs and saunas.

The lengthy hours spent in the bathtub, according to Thompson, were necessary to capture the scene effectively. Despite Ha’s discomfort, she maintained a light-hearted attitude during the interview, joking about being “a sensitive gal,” while expressing her surprise that Thompson did not share her unfortunate fate.

This incident was not the only mishap encountered during the filming of intimate scenes in the period drama. Earlier this year, Ha revealed to PEOPLE that their initial plan to film a staircase encounter had to be postponed due to her falling ill with the flu.

While many might assume that steamy scenes in such a series are merely for titillation, Ha firmly believes they play a crucial role in the narrative. “Those Bridgerton steamy, sex scenes — or whatever you want to call them — they don’t feel like they’re there just for the sake of it,” she commented. “They’re actually an extension of the storytelling, and it is quite poetic and they are there for an actual purpose.”

Critics and fans alike often note that “Bridgerton” adeptly navigates the portrayal of intimacy from a female perspective, fostering a sense of empowerment and emotional depth within its storytelling. Helmed by producer Shondaland, the series has cultivated a distinctive blend of romance, social commentary, and character development that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Returning to Ha’s amusing recounting of her filming challenges, it is clear that the world of acting can often be unpredictable and laden with unexpected difficulties. However, it is this very unpredictability that enriches the storytelling process, allowing for authentic portrayals of complex characters and relationships.

As anticipation builds for the next chapter of “Bridgerton,” both Ha and Thompson’s experiences serve as a reminder of the dedication required to bring such intimate and intricate scenes to life. Ultimately, the intersection of art and reality often manifests in surprising ways, underscoring the notion that behind every captivating performance lies an untold story.