Key Takeaways -
• An infrared sauna session is a great way to alleviate and manage skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and acne.
• Studies have shown that saunas can improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the body.
• Regular sauna sessions help to manage stress levels and cortisol production; both of these factors are linked to improving skin health.
Do you have skin conditions that are leaving you feeling frustrated and tired? If so, a sauna could be the key to helping restore your skin’s natural health.
Not only can it help with existing skin conditions, but regular sauna use can also help prevent future issues from developing. This is because saunas increase blood flow and circulation, which helps to promote healthy cell growth.
In this article, we will explore how a sauna can benefit your overall skin health and give you tips on how to get started, so if you’re looking for an all-natural way to take care of your skin, read on.
What Are Skin Conditions?
Skin conditions are medical conditions that AFFECT the health of your skin. Common skin conditions include:
- acne
- psoriasis
- eczema
- rosacea
These skin disorders can range from mild to severe and may cause SYMPTOMS like itchiness, redness, dryness, bumps or lesions.
It is important to speak with a doctor if you notice any CHANGES in your skin or are curious about a certain spot or rash to get an accurate diagnosis and the best treatment.
Benefits Of Using An Infrared Sauna With Skin Conditions
To get the full benefits from using a sauna, it is suggested to use an infrared sauna. Infrared saunas use infrared light to produce heat which penetrates the skin more DEEPLY than regular saunas, providing several different health benefits beyond just relaxation and stress relief.
Let's take a look at each of these benefits and how they can help with skin conditions:
Acne-Prone Skin
Infrared sauna sessions can be a great tool for treating acne-prone skin. The heat from the sauna helps to REDUCE inflammation, which is one of the main causes of acne breakouts.
Additionally, steam can help open up your clogged pores (due to sebaceous glands), allowing any dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells trapped inside to be RELEASED. This will help prevent future outbreaks while also reducing the severity and duration of existing ones.
Furthermore, INCREASED circulation facilitated by the sauna's heat helps promote healthy cell growth so that your skin can heal more quickly.
According to NCBI, there is evidence that saunas can reduce inflammation, which means they may help in treating psoriasis, eczema and rosacea [1].
Pro Tip: Before entering the sauna, cleanse any areas affected by acne with a gentle cleanser.
Psoriasis
Infrared saunas can also be beneficial for those with psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that causes red, itchy, scaly patches and dry skin due to OVERACTIVE skin cell production.
The heat from the sauna increases blood circulation, which can help REDUCE inflammation associated with psoriasis, soothe itching and soften scaly patches.
Eczema & Rosacea
For those suffering from eczema or rosacea, the benefits of an infrared sauna are two-fold.
Not only can regular sauna use help reduce inflammation and REDNESS associated with these conditions, but it can also help you relax and de-stress, which can improve your overall well-being.
Recent studies have also indicated that sauna use can improve hydration and elasticity in the skin, so it can be particularly beneficial for those with dry or delicate skin [2].
Pro Tip: Using a cold shower or compress after the steam room can help to soothe the skin and close up your pores.
Reduce the Appearance Of Wrinkles
Finally, regular sauna use can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines due to the increased CIRCULATION it provides. The heat from the sauna helps your skin retain moisture, making it appear smoother and more youthful over time.
Additionally, using a facial mask in the sauna will give you an EXTRA boost of hydration and moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Sauna Help With Cellulite Reduction?
Incorporating saunas into your regular routine can help diminish the look of cellulite by aiding in boosting circulation and enhancing skin elasticity. An improved flow of blood helps expel toxins that aid cellulite, while improved suppleness reduces dimpling visibility.
Can Sauna Help With Improving Skin Tone And Texture?
Yes, sauna use can help improve skin tone and texture by aiding in removing dead skin cells. The increased circulation brought on by sauna use helps to promote cell renewal and regeneration for a healthier, more even complexion.
Additionally, regular sauna use helps your skin retain moisture for a smoother, softer look.
Can A Sauna Be Used To Improve The Quality Of Hair And Nails?
Yes, sauna use can help improve the quality of both hair and nails. The increased circulation brought on by the sauna helps to nourish the scalp and strengthen hair follicles for a healthier head of hair. It also helps to condition cuticles and reduce brittleness in nails.
Can A Sauna Be Used To Improve The Appearance Of Varicose Veins?
Yes, sauna use can help improve the appearance of varicose veins. The increased circulation by the heat helps stimulate blood flow and reduce swelling in affected veins. This, in turn, can reduce the visibility of these bulging veins and give you smoother-looking skin.
Conclusion
Infrared saunas can be incredibly beneficial for those suffering from skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and rosacea. It can also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, cellulite, and varicose veins and improve the quality of hair and nails.
Regular sauna use helps to promote circulation, which aids in cell renewal and regeneration for a healthier look overall. With these benefits and stress-reducing properties, infrared saunas are an excellent way to keep your body healthy inside and out.
Sources -
- Hussain J, Cohen M. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. 2018;2018:1-30. doi:10.1155/2018/1857413
- Kowatzki D, Macholdt C, Krull K, et al. Effect of Regular Sauna on Epidermal Barrier Function and Stratum Corneum Water-Holding Capacity in vivo in Humans: A Controlled Study. Dermatology. 2008;217(2):173-180. doi:10.1159/000137283
Content editor, marketer and product tester. A regular contributor for the ‘Home And Garden’ and Modern Homes Magazines, now part of a close-knit team, I oversee all the content on Posh. All roads have led to this job which I love. I get to focus on my love of interior design and health and work with a fabulous team. The role brings me a good level of freedom to my family and me and keeps me productive
