Most people who have ever visited a sauna have probably pondered the question of whether or not it is beneficial for their skin and overall health to shower before or afterwards. Consequently, why would someone pick one over the other, or perhaps both?

Taking a shower after a sauna: yes or no? Alternatively, do you need to wash up before entering a sauna? Check out the rest to learn more.

For generations, people have used saunas as a way to unwind and improve their health and well-being. Benefits to heart and lung health, as well as decreased pain and stiffness, have been associated with regular sauna use.

There is some evidence that saunas can help with weight loss, skin health, and immune system function. Those with preexisting health concerns, in particular, should use saunas with caution and under the supervision of a medical practitioner.

Shower Before Sauna

It is common for people to shower before entering a sauna. This is because showering before the sauna can help to remove dirt and sweat from the skin, which can make the sauna experience more comfortable. Showering before the sauna can also help to prepare the body for heat by gradually raising the body temperature. 

Showering before the sauna can have several benefits, including:

1. Cleanliness: 

Cleanliness is an important aspect of sauna use. When using a public sauna, it is important to shower before entering to remove dirt and sweat from the skin, which can make the sauna experience more comfortable and reduce the spread of bacteria and germs.

It is also important to maintain cleanliness within the sauna itself by wiping down the benches and surfaces with a disinfectant before and after use. Additionally, it is a good practice to bring your towel or sauna sheet to sit on, to avoid sitting on a surface that may be unhygienic.

It’s also important to note that it’s not recommended to use lotions, oils or fragrances before entering the sauna, as it can create a slippery surface and can also cause irritation to others.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a clean and hygienic sauna experience for yourself and others.

2. Body Temperature Regulation:

Body temperature regulation is an important aspect of sauna use. The high temperatures in a sauna can cause an increase in core body temperature, which can be beneficial for some health conditions. However, it’s important to regulate body temperature and not overheat.

Showering before the sauna can help to prepare the body for heat by gradually raising the body temperature. This can make it easier to tolerate the high temperatures in the sauna. Taking a warm shower before the sauna can also help to open up the airways and improve breathing, which can be especially beneficial for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchitis.

It’s also important to monitor the body temperature during sauna use. If you start feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or unwell, it’s a sign that your body temperature is too high and you should leave the sauna immediately and cool down. Drinking water before, during and after sauna use can also help to regulate body temperature and prevent dehydration.

It’s also important to start with a lower temperature and shorter sauna sessions, especially if you’re new to sauna use or have certain medical conditions, and gradually increase the temperature and duration as your body adjusts.

It’s also important to note that sauna use should be done in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or dehydration.

3. Improved Breathing: 

Improved breathing is one of the potential benefits of sauna use. The heat and humidity in a sauna can help to open up the airways and improve breathing, which can be especially beneficial for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchitis.

The heat from the sauna can also help to loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to clear the lungs. The increased blood flow to the skin and the sweating caused by the sauna heat can also help to detoxify the body and remove impurities from the lungs.

Showering before the sauna can also help to improve breathing by opening up the airways. Taking a warm shower before the sauna can help to relax the muscles in the airways and make it easier to breathe.

It’s important to note that sauna use should be done in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as asthma or other respiratory conditions, as sauna use may aggravate some symptoms.

It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any difficulty breathing or other symptoms during sauna use.

4. Increased Circulation: 

Increased circulation is one of the potential benefits of sauna use. The heat from the sauna causes dilation of blood vessels, which can help to increase blood flow to the skin. This increased blood flow can help to improve overall circulation and bring oxygen and nutrients to the cells, which can enhance the sauna experience.

The sweating caused by the sauna heat can also help to remove impurities from the bloodstream, which can improve circulation and overall cardiovascular health. This can also have a beneficial effect on the skin, helping to improve skin health by removing toxins and leaving the skin looking and feeling revitalized.

The increased circulation can also help to reduce pain and stiffness, especially in people with conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.

It’s important to note that sauna use should be done in moderation and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, particularly for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, as sauna use may aggravate some symptoms.

It’s also important to drink water before, during and after sauna use to help prevent dehydration, as dehydration can lead to decreased circulation and other health problems.

5. Hygiene:

Hygiene is an important aspect of sauna use, both for the individual and the community using the sauna. Proper hygiene practices can help to reduce the spread of bacteria and germs and make the sauna experience more comfortable and pleasant.

Showering before entering the sauna is a common hygiene practice, as it helps to remove dirt and sweat from the skin and prepare the body for heat. It’s also recommended to bring your towel or sauna sheet to sit on, to avoid sitting on a surface that may be unhygienic.

It’s also a good practice to wipe down the benches and surfaces with a disinfectant before and after use, to reduce the spread of bacteria and germs. Additionally, it’s not recommended to use lotions, oils or fragrances before entering the sauna, as they can create a slippery surface and can also cause irritation to others.

It’s also important to maintain a general level of cleanliness while using the sauna, such as not bringing food or drinks, avoiding smoking or using drugs, and wearing appropriate clothing.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a clean and hygienic sauna experience for yourself and others. It’s also important to note that it’s a shared space, and good manners and consideration towards others are also important.

Remember that you can skip the shower in favour of a quick towel off or a sauna-specific hygiene product before entering the sauna.

Conclusion

In conclusion, showering before the sauna can have several benefits including cleanliness, body temperature regulation, improved breathing, increased circulation, and hygiene. Showering before the sauna can help to remove dirt and sweat from the skin, which can make the sauna experience more comfortable.

It can also help to prepare the body for heat by gradually raising the body temperature and opening up the airways and improving breathing. Additionally, it is a good hygiene practice. However, it’s not necessary to shower before the sauna, and some people may prefer to simply wipe down with a towel or use a sauna-specific hygiene product.

It’s important to also shower after the sauna to lower the body temperature, refresh the body and wash off sweat, and maintain hygiene. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or specific medical conditions regarding sauna use.

For related information to widen your perspective on whether to shower before a sauna or not, just click our related blogs on the shower before sauna.