What Do You Put On Your Skin After A Sauna?

Especially in the winter months, your skin is practically calling out for a little TLC. The right skin care does wonders to help you keep that post-sauna glow and make your skin stays as healthy and vibrant as can be.

A quick tour of the blog post

Your Skin's Needs After an Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas affect your skin in several beneficial ways:

Temperature boost: Infrared saunas elevate your core temperature. Their deep heat penetrates your body but maintains lower air temperatures than traditional saunas do.

Improved blood flow: Stimulated blood circulation and the delivery of vital nutrients and oxygen to every cell, revitalizes your skin, whereas insufficient blood can cause a dull complexion, dryness, and age spots.

Detoxification: Besides its circulation boost, infrared heat speeds up cellular activity. The process ramps up detoxification of the pores through sweating, cleanses your skin, smooths out fine lines, and increases collagen density.

Nourish Your Skin Post-Sauna

After enjoying your sauna, it's time for skin care.

First: take a shower

Stepping out from the sauna's warmth necessitates a crucial next step: showering. This cools your body down, and is essential for skin health. A shower after the sauna works wonders, flushing away sweat and impurities that accumulate during your session.

Each of the following after sauna showers options offer unique benefits. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and health conditions.

Cool Rinse

Ideal for an invigorating experience, a cool rinse after a sauna session is an invigorating experience that boosts your immune system, detoxifies your body, and improves blood circulation.

This method, akin to a cold plunge, can also aid in weight loss and provide stress relief [1] by enhancing lymphatic circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body.

Be cautious, though, especially if you have conditions like high blood pressure, as the sudden temperature change can be a shock to the system.

A "cool" rinse doesn't necessarily mean ice cold. Start with a temperature that's refreshing and gradually make it cooler if it feels comfortable.

Warm Shower

A warm (or lukewarm) shower is a gentler option, helping to gradually lower your body temperature and remove toxins and impurities from the skin.

It's a soothing choice that still offers the benefits of cleansing the skin and promoting relaxation. Be mindful of the water temperature; overly hot showers can dry out the skin, so gentle, moisturizing products are recommended to maintain the skin’s natural balance.

Relaxing Before Showering

For those who prefer a more gradual transition, taking some time to relax before showering allows the body to cool down naturally. This approach respects the body's heat adaptation process and is suitable for those who find immediate showering too abrupt.

But remember, it's still important to cleanse your skin after your sauna session. For this you can use a washcloth and lukewarm water to wipe down your body.

For a more comprehensive exploration of the benefits and considerations of these shower options, you can read our article: ‘Shower Before Or After Infrared Sauna?’ Here you find more indepth information on the nuances of cool rinses, warm showers, and relaxation strategies following sauna sessions, including detailed insights into the physiological impacts and expert recommendations.

Second: drink water

Begin by drinking plenty of water right after your sauna session to hydrate from the inside. This helps as much as putting on creams and lotions to:

Prevent dehydration: Deep heat causes intense sweating. If you don't replace the lost fluids, you can become dehydrated.

Maintain skin moisture: Drinking water after a session keeps your skin's moisture level balanced. This is important, as it keeps your skin full, flexible, and free from dryness and flaking.

Balance electrolytes: Your body needs electrolytes [2] like sodium, potassium, and magnesium for hydration, nerve communication, and muscle function. Sweating reduces these electrolytes, so replacing them is crucial for healthy skin and overall body health.

After an infrared sauna session, your body has lost many fluids and minerals through perspiration. Drink enough before, during, and after your session, not just for skin health.

For practical tips on maintaining hydration before, during, and after sauna, including how much to drink and the best types of beverages for optimal skin health, consider reading further on this topic in our article ‘What To Drink With Your Sauna Sessions?’

Last but not least: your skin care ritual

Now your skin needs your attention. Here are some tips for after sauna skin care. If you follow this order, your skin can recover optimally.

After your shower, gently pat your skin dry and cleanse your skin with a soft, non-drying cleanser to remove any remaining impurities. This prepares your skin to absorb the moisturizer more effectively. At this point, you can opt to get rid of dead skin cells by exfoliating.
Consider dry brushing after your session - it is a treat for your skin.
After cleansing your skin, try a nourishing mask every now and then; particularly soothing and beneficial after the heat of a sauna, as it allows your skin to absorb essential nutrients and hydration more effectively.
While your skin is still slightly damp, apply a quality moisturizer for hydration and protection. Focus on delicate areas like the face, neck, and décolletage. Choose a product with a gentle formula that's rich in hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or natural oils, and look for added antioxidants like vitamins E and C. This combination will provide immediate hydration, nourish, and protect your skin against environmental damage and free radicals.
Going outdoors? Use a broad-spectrum sun protection to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays.
If your skin is very dry or requires additional care, put on a second layer of moisture after the initial moisturizer has been fully absorbed. For long-lasting hydration, use for a richer cream or hydrating oil. Should your skin need even more moisture, another layer of a lighter moisturizer or serum rich in hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid or glycerin will make you feel and look reborn.
Finally, using a serum or gel with comforting ingredients like aloe vera or cucumber to your skin gives an extra hydration boost and has a calming effect on the skin.

Some tips for applying products

When putting on products, pat them softly onto your skin. Rubbing can irritate your skin after the sauna's heat.
If your skin is sensitive, hypoallergenic products without fragrances or dyes avoid irritation.
Apply your products from the 'thinnest to thickest'. This means serums first, then moisturizers, and lastly oils or heavier creams.
Use a richer cream at night to help your skin repair while you sleep.

exfoliating after sauna

Exfoliating to remove dead skin cells after a sauna session considerably enhances health and appearance of your skin. Before going into the specifics of exfoliation post-sauna, it's important to know how it differs from peeling.

Exfoliation is the mechanical removal of dead skin cells to improve the skin's complexion, using scrubs that act on the skin's surface. Peeling employs acids to dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together, penetrating deeper and intensely revitalizes the skin.

Benefits of exfoliation

Enhanced Skin Renewal: The heat from a sauna opens up pores and loosens the surface layer of dead skin cells; the perfect first step of exfoliation. By exfoliating after a sauna, you're more effectively removing dead skin cells, revealing the newer, healthier skin beneath.

Improved Texture and Radiance: Regular exfoliation, especially after the sauna's heat has softened the skin, dramatically improves your skin's texture, making it smoother and radiant.

Boosted Absorption of Skincare Products: With the top layer of dead skin removed, your skin can better absorb moisturizers and other skincare products, which makes them more effective.

Stimulated Blood Circulation: Exfoliating after a sauna session boosts blood flow to the skin's surface, evoking its natural glow and supporting overall skin health.

Tailoring Exfoliation to Your Skin Type

While exfoliation offers numerous benefits, please consider your skin type to avoid irritation.

If you have sensitive skin, proceed with caution, Use mild exfoliants or very soft loofahs and limit the number of exfoliating sessions to prevent irritation.

People with dry or dehydrated skin types might benefit from gentle exfoliation to remove flakiness, followed by intensive moisturization. Be mindful of over-exfoliating - it may strip the skin of its natural oils and leads to further dryness.

Exfoliate more often for oily and/or acne-prone skin to help unclog pores and reduce oiliness. Beware though of using harsh scrubs that sometimes exacerbate acne. We recommend using gentle exfoliants like salicylic acid.

As skin matures, cell turnover slows down, making exfoliation beneficial. But mature skin might also be more delicate. In such cases, mild exfoliating products that do not strip the skin of moisture are suitable.

Incorporating Peeling or Exfoliating into Your After-Sauna Routine

After a sauna and a shower, when your skin is warm but not wet, apply a gentle exfoliant.

Use soft, circular motions to massage the exfoliant into your skin, focusing on areas prone to dead skin buildup like elbows and knees. Exfoliate with care to avoid over-exfoliating, which can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation.

Masking after infrared sauna

After cleansing and before moisturizing, indulge in a mask tailored to your skin's needs. This step hydrates deeply, and acts like a therapeutic break. This allows your skin to absorb essential nutrients and recover from the heat exposure.

Choose your mask based on your skin type and desired outcome:

Hydrating Sheet Masks (All skin types, especially dehydrated skin): Provide intense hydration and help restore the skin's moisture balance, especially helpful after exposure to heat.

Cream Masks (Dry and mature skin types): Rich in emollients and often packed with anti-aging ingredients, cream masks deeply nourish the skin and help repair the skin barrier.

Gel Mask (Sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin): Gel masks have a cooling effect, which can soothe and calm the skin after sauna exposure. They're lightweight and hydrating without being heavy or clogging pores.

Clay and Mud Masks (Oily and combination skin types): Detoxify and purify the skin by drawing out impurities from the pores. As they can dry out, it's wise to apply a good moisturizer afterwards.

Bio-cellulose Masks (All skin types, especially if you'd like advanced skincare): Bio-cellulose masks adhere better to the skin. Delivering serums and essences deeply into the skin, this mask maximizes hydration and rejuvenation.

Application

After cleansing your skin, apply the mask of your choice. Masking your face is common, but try it on other parts of your body as well.

Most masks should be left on for about 10-20 minutes, depending on the instructions. This step is followed by your regular moisturizing routine to seal in the benefits of the mask.

Give the Infrared Sauna Experience a Boost: Pre and Post Sauna Practices

To fully enjoy and maximize the benefits from your infrared experience, here are some other things you can do before and after your session to raise your sense overall well-being:

Before the Sauna

Deep breathing: Begin with a few minutes of deep breathing exercises. This helps calm your mind, prepares your body for relaxation, and improves oxygen flow, reinforcing the detox effects of the sauna.

Stretching: Gentle stretching before you being your session loosens your muscles and joints, making the heat more effective in relieving tensions or soreness.

after the Sauna

Resting: Take some time to rest after your sauna session. Sit or lie down in a comfortable area to allow your body to adjust back to its normal temperature and state. This is also a good time to continue deep breathing exercises, deepening relaxation and oxygenation. Interested in some after sauna rituals ideas? They are just one click away.

Hydrating: Next of drinking plenty of water, use hydrating beverages to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.

Things to Avoid After a Sauna Session

Avoid rushing: Don’t immediately jump into strenuous activities. Give your body time to recover and enjoy the serene state post-sauna.

Skip the alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol right after a sauna, as it dehydrates you further and lessens the detoxifying effects.

Steer clear of heavy meals: Wait a while before consuming a heavy meal. Instead, eat some light, nutritious snacks or meals that are easy to digest and won’t burden your digestive system.

Avoid immediate cold exposure: While a cool shower can be beneficial, avoid extreme cold exposure right after your sauna session. Gradually cooling down is gentler on your body.

Effective skincare after an infrared sauna means that you recognize and meet your skin's needs. Start with a shower and a soft cleanse, then hydrate thoroughly with moisturizers and nourishing oils. And don't overlook the need for sun protection and products rich in antioxidants.

Follow these steps to achieve and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion. Use a gentle exfoliating process to further unveil the true radiance of your skin.

Beyond just looking good, these practices nurture a lifestyle that values health and self-care. Taking regular care of your skin after the sauna can have lasting effects, for stronger, more resilient skin and a deeper sense of well-being.

Your skin mirrors your overall health and the care you give it. Treat it well after your infrared sauna sessions, and it will repay you with a natural, vibrant glow. Why delay? Start your path to improved skin health and wellness today!

Author: Diane Sargent

References

1. Kristeen Cherney, Cold Shower for Anxiety: Does It Help? Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/cold-shower-for-anxiety

2. Isha Shrimanker and Sandeep Bhattarai, in StatPearls, Electrolytes, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31082167/

Eager for more insights? Follow these links to learn more

Is Infrared Sauna Good For My Skin?

Skin Care Before And In The Infrared Sauna

Can Infrared Saunas Help With Skin Conditions?