Written by Sarah Huerter
From Native American sweat lodges to Finnish wood-fired saunas, the use of saunas has been a longstanding tradition across the globe. Saunas or sauna-baths have been used for relaxation, rejuvenation, and even ceremonial purposes. Today, saunas still remain a staple for many. It’s become a fundamental part of modern beauty regimens, due to the amazing benefits for skin, circulation, and reducing inflammation.
Skin Cleansing
Sweating is one of the most effective forms of detoxification for the body. Heavy metals and harmful chemicals often get stored in the fat cells. Regular sweating in the sauna paired with exercise helps eliminate, flush, and rid toxins out of the body. It can be highly cleansing for pores and glands, leaving your skin looking and feeling healthier.
Skin Refresh
Increased body temperatures can activate collagen production. Collagen is a protein that provides elasticity, helping to make the skin firm and plump. This can help reduce stretch marks, cellulite, and remove dead skin, making way for the new. Deep sweating can help remove bacteria from the skin, which can improve acne and overall skin health as well.
Melt Stress
Sitting in a hot sauna can calm and regulate our nervous system… Turning off the busy bustle lifestyle and turning on the rest and digesting parasympathetic state. Reducing our stress levels directly translates to lowered stress hormones, balancing everything into a healthy range.
Glowy Skin
Sauna’s high temperatures improve circulation and oxygenation doing wonders to the skin. When our body temperature rises, our blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow… Meaning more nutrients and oxygen are delivered to the skin and body tissues. Your skin's complexion will start to glow…
If you’ve never sweat like this before, it’s not uncommon for the skin to break out. Not to fret, your body is doing its job and removing those unwanted toxins. Drink plenty of water, and consider some binders like activated charcoal for the first couple of weeks…30 minutes before sweating…to help pull and eliminate the toxin stores. . Staying hydrated will assist in the process, along with gentle dry brushing. Be mindful of the products you use on your face and skin. Let that inner glow radiate out through your gorgeous skin.