Saunas have been cherished for centuries across diverse cultures, lauded not just for the immense relaxing feelings, but also for a plethora of health benefits.
Are saunas good for your skin?
This is a question we get a lot that I'm sure you're wondering, too. The short answer is yes - absolutely! Saunas offer a surprising number of benefits for your skin, which we speak in detail about below. Obviously, one of the main things you do in a sauna is sweat, and sweating helps cleanse pores and remove toxins. Improved circulation from the heat also brings more oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, promoting a healthy glow and maybe even reducing wrinkles a bit. Saunas may even help with certain skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, but we recommend you speak to a doctor about that. Additionally, by reducing stress and improving hydration (as long as you drink lots of water, which we strongly recommend for any sauna bathing), saunas can contribute to overall skin health and radiance.
Now that we've offered a short and brief answer, let's dive deeper. Through extensive scientific studies, the world of research offers us fascinating insights into how saunas can be the secret key to vibrant skin.
1. Deep Cleansing and Detoxification
Every day, our skin battles with dirt, pollutants, and countless other microscopic adversaries. Sauna bathing can be a game-changer here. The heat induces profound sweating, which aids in flushing out toxins and impurities from the skin. This natural detoxification process results in cleaner and clearer skin. An article from Mayo Clinic Proceedings attests to the detoxifying effects of regular sauna use, emphasizing its role in facilitating the excretion of toxins[1].
2. Enhanced Blood Circulation
Good blood circulation is pivotal for healthy skin, and this is another arena where saunas shine. The heat from the sauna expands blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the skin's surface. This ensures that skin cells receive more oxygen and nutrients, fostering cell turnover and the removal of metabolic waste. A study in the American Journal of Physiology echoes this sentiment, underscoring the vasodilatory effect of heat, which in turn elevates skin blood flow[2].
3. Collagen Production and Wrinkle Reduction
Collagen, a protein in our skin, is responsible for its elasticity and firmness. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging. The good news? Sauna bathing can stimulate collagen production. A study found in ScienceDirect highlights that the heat stress from sauna sessions enhances skin elasticity by stimulating collagen and other proteins integral to maintaining youthful skin[5].
4. Alleviation of Skin Conditions
Sauna's therapeutic warmth has been shown to benefit certain skin conditions. For instance, a study in ScienceDirect cited improvements in psoriasis, a chronic skin condition, following regular sauna sessions[6]. Additionally, the journal BioMed Central has documented findings linking sauna use with the alleviation of atopic dermatitis symptoms, emphasizing its potential in complementary treatments[5].
Sauna bathing won't be any type of cure-all for your skin conditions, so don't expect your skin to magically clear up after one or two sauna sessions. But you already knew that, because your the smart one doing the research here and learning about the science behind it!
5. Improved Hydration and Pore Size Reduction
The elevated humidity in some saunas, especially steam saunas, can boost skin hydration. Well-hydrated skin is plumper, which can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and make the skin feel softer. Furthermore, as impurities and toxins are flushed out due to profuse sweating, pores can become unclogged, leading to a reduction in their size. The article from BioMed Central further highlights that improved skin barrier function can result from sauna bathing, promoting better hydration and protection against external irritants[3].
At the risk if sounding like a broken record, you can't improve your hydration without staying hydrated! It's absolutely vital to drink plenty of water before, during and especially after sauna use. Do not mix alcohol and saunas, as alcohol dehydrates the body, the opposite effect from what you're going for.
6. Enhanced Skin Nutrition
Beyond just hydration, the enhanced blood flow we touched on earlier also delivers vital nutrients to the skin. These nutrients support skin health, vitality, and function. The glow often observed post-sauna isn't just from the sweat; it's a reflection of a well-nourished skin benefiting from the micronutrients and minerals it needs to thrive.
7. Reduction of Acne and Breakouts
While sweating is often wrongfully blamed for causing breakouts, the deep cleansing benefits of sauna-induced sweating can help combat acne. The heat helps to open up pores, allowing for the release of trapped oils and impurities. This process, when combined with a post-sauna cleanse, can aid in keeping the skin clear and reducing the frequency and severity of breakouts.
8. Stress Reduction and Its Effect on Skin
While indirectly related, it's undeniable that stress plays a role in skin health. Conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea can be exacerbated by stress. Saunas offer a serene environment that promotes relaxation, and the heat itself encourages the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. By helping to manage and reduce stress, saunas contribute to a holistic approach to skincare, where the mind and body both play integral roles.
Conclusion
In essence, saunas are not just a haven for relaxation; they are a sanctuary for the skin. The multitude of benefits, from detoxification and increased circulation to collagen stimulation and stress reduction, highlight the comprehensive skin health approach saunas offer. If you’ve been on the fence about integrating sauna sessions into your routine, the radiant skin waiting on the other side might just be the nudge you need. Always ensure you are adhering to safety guidelines, staying hydrated, and consulting with a healthcare professional if you have underlying health conditions.
References:
[2] BioMed Central - Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review
[5] ScienceDirect 1 - Sauna use as a lifestyle practice to extend healthspan
