Eczema is a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, dry, and inflamed skin patches. Saunas, a form of heat therapy, have gained popularity for wellness benefits. This article explores the relationship between sauna use and eczema symptoms, addressing whether it might offer relief or potentially worsen the condition.
Understanding Eczema
Eczema, often called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. It presents as itchy, dry, and discolored patches, sometimes appearing rough, leathery, or scaly. The condition frequently involves a compromised skin barrier, the skin’s outer protective layer, allowing irritants and allergens to enter and moisture to escape. This contributes to dryness, irritation, and inflammation.
The immune system also plays a role, often overreacting to minor irritants or allergens. This triggers an inflammatory response, leading to visible skin symptoms. Common triggers include environmental factors like smoke and air pollutants, certain fabrics such as wool, harsh soaps, detergents, allergens like dust mites and pet dander, and emotional stress.
Understanding Saunas
Saunas are enclosed heated spaces promoting sweating and relaxation, operating at temperatures typically ranging from 65°C to 100°C (150°F to 212°F). High temperatures induce profuse sweating, increasing heart rate and blood circulation as the body regulates its temperature.
Two main types of saunas are commonly used: traditional Finnish saunas and infrared saunas. Traditional Finnish saunas heat air to high temperatures, often by pouring water over hot stones to create steam and increase humidity. Infrared saunas use radiant heat from infrared emitters to directly warm the body rather than the surrounding air, typically operating at lower temperatures, between 45°C and 60°C (113°F and 140°F).
Potential Therapeutic Effects of Sauna
Sauna use might offer some benefits for individuals with eczema, stemming from its physiological effects. Heat exposure can increase blood circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the skin and supporting its natural repair processes.
Sweating can also cleanse the skin by eliminating impurities from pores. Sweat contains antimicrobial peptides that may offer a protective effect against certain bacteria on the skin, which could be relevant for eczema where some individuals have altered skin microbiota. Sauna sessions are often relaxing, and stress reduction is a recognized factor in managing eczema symptoms, as stress can trigger flare-ups. A 2017 study found that more frequent sauna sessions were associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation, suggesting a potential anti-inflammatory effect.
Factors That May Aggravate Eczema in a Sauna Environment
While saunas may offer some benefits, several factors within the sauna environment can potentially worsen eczema symptoms. High heat can lead to rapid moisture loss from the skin, exacerbating dryness and itching. This dehydration can further compromise an already weakened skin barrier, making it more susceptible to irritation.
Sweat itself, containing salts and other compounds, can directly irritate inflamed or broken skin, potentially triggering a flare-up. Some individuals with eczema report increased sensitivity to high heat, finding it directly causes their symptoms to worsen. The rapid cooling and evaporation after leaving a hot sauna can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness if not promptly addressed. Additionally, a compromised skin barrier in a warm, moist environment could increase the risk of secondary skin infections, although this is less common.
Safe Sauna Practices for Eczema
For individuals with eczema considering sauna use, adopting specific practices can help minimize potential adverse effects. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider before initiating sauna therapy, especially for those with severe eczema or active flare-ups. Starting with shorter sessions, perhaps 5 to 10 minutes, and using lower temperatures, particularly in infrared saunas which operate at a gentler heat, allows the skin to gradually adapt.
Maintaining adequate hydration is important, so drinking plenty of water before, during, and after a sauna session is recommended to offset fluid loss from sweating. Immediately after leaving the sauna, showering with lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser can remove sweat and impurities without stripping the skin. Following the shower, applying a generous amount of a thick, emollient moisturizer to damp skin can help lock in hydration and support the skin barrier. Avoiding sauna use during active eczema flares, or if the skin is broken or infected, is also advisable, and discontinuing use if any irritation occurs is important.