Sauna can potentially worsen eczema due to the heat and moisture, which can increase inflammation and dry out the skin. However, it may also have benefits for some individuals with eczema by helping to relax and reduce stress. It is best to speak with a healthcare professional before using a sauna if you have eczema.
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Sauna and Eczema: Can Sauna Therapy Worsen or Improve Eczema Symptoms?
Sauna therapy is often used as a means of relaxation and detoxification, promoting good health and well-being. However, it may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions, including eczema. Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, itchiness, and dryness of the skin. It affects over 30 million people in the United States alone, with many experiencing flare-ups due to various triggers.
So, does sauna make eczema worse?
According to the National Eczema Association, sauna can potentially worsen eczema due to the heat and moisture, which can increase inflammation and dry out the skin. However, it may also have benefits for some individuals with eczema by helping to relax and reduce stress. It is best to speak with a healthcare professional before using a sauna if you have eczema.
Here’s a quote from Dr. Holly Kanavy, a board-certified dermatologist:
“Some people with eczema can tolerate a sauna or steam room, while others may not. If you do decide to try it, limit your time to 5 or 10 minutes and make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.”
Table: Sauna and Eczema – Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Relaxation and stress relief | Heat and moisture can increase inflammation and dry out the skin |
| Improved blood circulation | Risk of dehydration |
| Detoxification | Heat can trigger eczema flare-ups for some individuals |
| Enhanced immune system function | Exposure to bacteria and fungi |
| Pain relief | May worsen certain health conditions or interact with medications |
| Weight loss | May not be suitable for pregnant women, children, or people with certain conditions |
Interesting Facts:
- Sauna therapy has been used for centuries in many parts of the world to promote health and well-being, improve sleep quality, and boost immune function.
- Regular sauna use has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia, as well as improved mental health and physical performance.
- Sauna therapy may also offer benefits for people with skin conditions like psoriasis and acne, though more research is needed.
- People with eczema should be cautious when using sauna, and avoid it altogether during flare-ups or if their doctor advises against it.
- Sauna therapy should always be done under medical supervision, with a focus on safety, hygiene, and proper hydration.
In conclusion, while sauna therapy can provide many beneficial effects for our health, it is important to become aware of any potential risks or adverse effects that may be associated with it. People with eczema should first consult with a healthcare professional to assess the risk of sauna use. If after weighing the pros and cons they decide to try it, they should always take precautions to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Video answer to “Does sauna make eczema worse?”
Dr. Dray discusses the benefits and risks associated with different types of saunas, including traditional Finnish saunas, steam saunas, and infrared saunas. While saunas are claimed to have various benefits, such as increased metabolism and improved sleep, Dr. Dray notes that there is insufficient evidence to recommend saunas as a standard of care for any medical condition. Additionally, saunas are not recommended for individuals with eczema or acne as the increased sweat production can impair the skin barrier and worsen these conditions. Furthermore, there is a low risk of developing a disfiguring skin condition called erythema ab igne, which can increase the risk of skin cancer, associated with using an infrared sauna. However, relaxing is an important factor for mental health and wellness, and using a sauna occasionally seems reasonable if otherwise healthy.
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Regular sauna use can also help control skin inflammation, minimising the constant itch associated with eczema and psoriasis. The infrared waves of light have been proven to reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory chemicals in our blood, which reduces inflammation in the skin.
Saunas are not good for eczema and can even be detrimental to healing. The heat of the sauna, as well as the resulting sweat, irritates eczema. While saunas may appear helpful at first glance due to their ability to decrease inflammation and stress, the cons outweigh the pros.
Saunas are not good for eczema and can even be detrimental to healing. The heat of the sauna, as well as the resulting sweat, irritates eczema. While saunas may appear helpful at first glance due to their ability to decrease inflammation and stress, the cons outweigh the pros.
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