Which Is Better for Skin: Steam or Infrared Saunas?
If you’re passionate about skincare, you likely know that saunas are a great tool for helping your skin. But which sauna is better for your skin, steam or infrared units? Keep reading to learn more about how these saunas work and how they can help your skin look and feel healthier than ever.
The Science Behind Saunas
Saunas impact your skin by promoting circulation and sweating through heat. Traditional steam saunas heat the air to create humidity, which penetrates the skin externally.
Infrared saunas, however, use infrared light to directly heat the body, reaching deeper layers of skin at lower temperatures. This deeper heat delivery offers greater detoxification, making it particularly appealing for skincare enthusiasts.
Benefits of Steam Saunas for Skin
People have been using steam saunas for centuries because they offer notable skin benefits, primarily detoxification. By encouraging a deep sweat, they help eliminate impurities and toxins, refreshing and revitalizing the skin. Steam also boosts circulation by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the skin, which creates a natural glow and supports faster healing of minor blemishes.
Steam saunas are also great for opening pores, making them an excellent pre-facial treatment that enhances the effectiveness of cleansers and exfoliants. However, the high humidity of steam saunas can be overwhelming for those with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea. Prolonged exposure may also strip the skin's natural oils, potentially leading to dryness if not followed by proper hydration.
Advantages of Infrared Saunas for Skin
Infrared saunas offer a modern take on traditional saunas, delivering heat deep into the skin's dermal layers for enhanced skincare benefits. This deeper penetration boosts collagen production, which naturally declines with age, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines. Infrared heat also stimulates sweat glands more effectively than steam saunas, promoting the release of toxins from deeper layers of the skin.
Another benefit of infrared saunas is they support skin healing and recovery. Infrared energy reduces inflammation and aids in repairing damaged cells—ideal for addressing acne scars, discoloration, and sun damage. Operating at a lower temperature, they are gentler on sensitive skin and more comfortable than traditional steam saunas, allowing for longer sessions. For optimal benefits, use an infrared sauna gradually with shorter sessions before expanding to longer ones for your body.
Which Sauna Is Right for My Skin?
We’ve broken down the basics and the benefits of each, so which is better for skin: steam or infrared saunas? The best sauna for your skincare routine depends on your needs. Steam saunas are ideal for surface-level benefits like detoxification, improved circulation, and pore cleansing.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, offer deeper results, including skin purification, reduced inflammation, and anti-aging benefits, making them a great choice for those seeking gentler, lower-temperature sessions. Your skin type, lifestyle, and health conditions should guide your decision.
Make Sauna Therapy Your Skincare Secret
Both types of saunas are beneficial for the skin, so the choice comes down to the individual’s preferences and skin type. Perhaps consider seeking out a wellness center or spa that offers both and see which feels better for your skin and body. Whichever you choose, consistency is key—regular sauna sessions can boost your skincare routine, providing relaxation while supporting healthier, glowing skin.
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