Is Infrared Sauna Good For My Skin?

The infrared sauna benefits for skin health are well documented. Regular use boosts collagen and detoxifies your skin, resulting in a more radiant and youthful complexion. The glow of the infrared sauna evokes the natural glow of your skin..

How Infrared Sauna Promotes Skin Health

Infrared sauna therapy is a holistic skincare marvel. Infrared rays deeply penetrate the skin, speeding up its detoxification, and stimulating blood flow. This profound action also increases collagen production, which diminishes the signs of aging.

It doesn't just stop there; it also works wonders in hydration of the skin, leaving it both glowing and refreshed. Consistent use of an infrared sauna could be the secret to maintaining youthful, healthy skin.

Does infrared sauna make you look younger? The Scientific Evidence

Recent research provides evidence for the infrared sauna benefits for skin health.

Effects of Infrared Radiation on Skin

This study [1] reveals that infrared radiation considerably increases the production of collagen and elastin. These proteins are necessary to maintain skin elasticity and a youthful appearance.

The study suggests that short, regular sessions of infrared sauna use can boost collagen levels in the skin, making it more pliable and appear revitalized. Consistency and regularity of the sessions more than prolonged single exposures, are key to unlocking the infrared sauna benefits for skin health.

Elastin levels were also found to increase with infrared therapy; a protein that optimizes skin texture and firmness. These findings establish a scientific basis for infrared benefits for skin care. It is fascinating to note that the study's results demonstrate not just superficial improvements, but actual changes at the molecular level that augment skin vitality over time. 

Infrared and skin: Friend or foe

A 2015 review [2] analyzed several studies on the effect of infrared saunas, specifically the near infrared sauna (NIR) on the skin, revealed some interesting insights:

Cellular Stimulation: NIR light, such as that emitted by IR saunas, can penetrate deep into the skin, stimulating cellular activities. This stimulation has been associated with several skin benefits, like collagen production and anti-inflammatory effects.

Collagen Enhancement: One key finding suggests that NIR light exposure can amplify collagen production. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity, which is a prerequisite for youthful-looking skin.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: NIR light has shown promise in bringing down skin inflammation, which could be beneficial for conditions like acne and dermatitis. It's intriguing this research also noted that excessive exposure to high-intensity IR sources, including direct sunlight, may not yield the same benefits.

While these studies suggest impressive benefits of infrared sauna for boosting collagen and elastin, it's equally important to consider the broader impact of infrared exposure on skin health. True, infrared sauna care boast numerous benefits for skin health, but it's good to consider their full potential impact.

Effects of Infrared Radiation on Skin: free radicals

Research reveals that infrared light can trigger free radical production in our skin, potentially affecting its natural defenses [3]. This doesn't negate the sauna's advantages but underscores the importance of a balanced approach. Using antioxidant-rich skincare and moderating sauna sessions can help safeguard our skin's health, and to help us make sure we enjoy the benefits without unintended consequences.

The nuanced effects of infrared saunas on skin health highlight the importance of dedicated research [4] to develop clear, safe usage guidelines, ensuring the well-being of users.

Tips for Maximizing Sauna Benefits for Skin Condition

To reap the skin benefits of infrared sauna sessions, keep these key tips in mind: 

• Adding infrared sauna sessions to your skincare regimen is straightforward and beneficial. 
• Aim for 2-3 sessions a week for the best results. 
• Stay hydrated before, during, and after your sauna to help with circulation and detoxification.
• Cleanse your skin prior to each session to remove impurities, so the infrared rays can deeply penetrate your pores. 
• Post-sauna, apply a high-quality moisturizer or serum enriched with antioxidants to support skin hydration and increase collagen production.

These simple practices boost the skin-improving effects of your infrared sauna sessions. For a more indepth review of after sauna skin care, read our article here.

Dry Brushing: Before Or After Infrared Sauna?

Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Sauna and Skin Health

How often should I use an infrared sauna for the best skin health results?

For optimal skin health benefits, experts suggest one to three infrared sauna sessions a week. This frequency is ideal to boost circulation and reduce inflammation. 

Does infrared help acne?

Yes, infrared saunas can be beneficial for those struggling with acne. The deep heat helps to detoxify the skin itself - clearing out impurities - and by promoting toxin removal from the body, both potentially reducing acne breakouts. 

What should I do to prepare my skin before an infrared sauna session?

To maximize the benefits of your infrared sauna time, cleanse your skin thoroughly before entering. This removes any surface dirt or makeup, allowing the infrared rays to penetrate more effectively.

Are there any specific aftercare tips post-infrared sauna sessions for skin health?

After an infrared sauna session, hydrate your skin. Use a high-quality moisturizer or serum to lock in moisture and further promote skin health and collagen production. Also, continue to drink plenty of water to support the detoxification process.

Can you go in a sauna with a sunburn?

Sauna immersion post-sunburn isn't advisable. It's a matter of skin science. Sunburned skin, already inflamed and tender, could react adversely to the sauna's heat. This heat can heighten blood flow and open pores, potentially worsening inflammation and causing dehydration. Rest your skin, allowing natural healing, typically about a week, before considering a sauna session.

Can I use an infrared sauna if I have a skin condition?

Infrared sauna use can have different effects on various skin conditions. Some individuals may experience worsening symptoms, especially if they have inflammatory skin issues like eczema. It's important to be cautious and closely monitor your skin's response to sauna sessions.

If you have such conditions, it's advisable to consider sauna use once your skin condition has improved and as always,  seek advice from your health care provider.

Balancing the rejuvenating benefits of infrared saunas with mindful usage can enliven your complexion, making it a worthy addition to your beauty routine.

References

1. Ju Hee Lee et al., Effects of Infrared Radiation on Skin Photo-Aging and Pigmentation, Jonsei Medical Journal, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2687728/

2. Daniel Barolet et al., Infrared and skin: Friend or foe,  Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology ,https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1011134415300713?via%3Dihub

3. Maxim E. Darvin et al., Formation of Free Radicals in Human Skin during Irradiation with Infrared Light, Journal of Investigative Dermatology , https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15346613

4. Sharon Pan et al., Popularity of infrared saunas and potential dermatologic risks: A Google Trends analysis, Clinics in Dermatology https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X23001682?via%3Dihub

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