If you’ve ever wanted to incorporate more self-care into your skincare routine, the allure of a sauna—whether dry or steam—is a ritual that feels as luxurious as it is rejuvenating. Saunas have been used for centuries as part of wellness practices, helping to detoxify the body, soothe sore muscles, and improve circulation. But when it comes to skin health, the sauna can be especially transformative. So, should you go for a dry sauna or a steam sauna? And how do they affect your skincare? Let’s dive in.
Dry Sauna vs. Steam Sauna: What’s the Difference?
Dry Sauna
A dry sauna (or Finnish sauna) heats the air inside a closed room using a heat source, typically from an electric or wood-burning stove, pushing the temperature up to between 150°F and 190°F with around 10-20% humidity. This low-humidity environment heats the skin quickly, allowing the body to sweat profusely while avoiding the "wet" sensation you might associate with steam.
Steam Sauna
In contrast, a steam sauna (or steam room) uses a generator to boil water and create steam, filling the space with high humidity (often 100%) but keeping temperatures lower—usually between 110°F and 120°F. The result is a dense, humid atmosphere that envelops the skin with moisture.
While both forms of saunas offer benefits, they differ in how they affect your body and skin due to their contrasting humidity levels.
Benefits of Dry and Steam Saunas for Skin and Body
Dry Sauna Benefits
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Improved Circulation
The intense heat in a dry sauna encourages blood flow and circulation, which can deliver more oxygen and nutrients to your skin. This helps promote a natural glow and can support cell regeneration over time. -
Detoxification Through Sweat
The dry heat encourages sweating, which helps flush out toxins from your skin and body. This is particularly useful for removing impurities and can support your skin’s natural detoxification processes. -
Enhanced Exfoliation
The heat from a dry sauna can loosen dead skin cells, making it easier to exfoliate afterward. For example, a body scrub like Manjeri’s Coconut Bliss Body Scrub can maximize this effect, revealing smoother and fresher skin. -
Reduced Inflammation
The warmth of a dry sauna may help reduce inflammation in the skin, supporting a more even skin tone over time and potentially alleviating conditions like acne and rosacea due to improved blood flow.
Steam Sauna Benefits
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Hydration and Moisture
Steam saunas are particularly beneficial for dry or sensitive skin because the high humidity helps to keep the skin hydrated. The steam opens up pores and allows moisture to penetrate deeply, making skin feel supple and plump. -
Deeper Pore Cleansing
Steam opens up your pores, allowing sweat to flush out dirt, oil, and impurities trapped within them. This can be particularly beneficial for people prone to clogged pores and blackheads. -
Enhanced Skincare Product Absorption
After a steam sauna, your skin’s pores are more receptive to skincare products. Following up with a nourishing body oil, like Manjeri’s Nourishing Body Oil + SPF 20, can help lock in hydration and keep your skin feeling soft and hydrated. -
Relief for Respiratory Health
The high humidity in a steam sauna can also help soothe your respiratory system, which can be an added benefit if you suffer from respiratory issues or seasonal allergies.
How to Choose the Right Sauna for Your Skin Type
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For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin:
Dry saunas may be more beneficial, as they help control oil production and cleanse pores through sweat. The dry heat can also reduce skin bacteria, which may lead to fewer breakouts over time. -
For Dry or Sensitive Skin:
Steam saunas offer a higher moisture level that’s gentler on dry or sensitive skin types. The added hydration from the steam can keep skin calm and support a balanced moisture barrier. -
For Combination Skin:
If you have combination skin, consider alternating between the two sauna types. Enjoy the detoxifying benefits of a dry sauna on some days and the hydrating effects of a steam sauna on others. This approach can help target both oily and dry areas without over-stressing your skin.
Incorporating Sauna Sessions into Your Skincare Routine
Incorporating a sauna session into your skincare routine isn’t just about relaxation—it can enhance the efficacy of your skincare products and bring visible improvements to your skin. Here’s how to make the most out of it:
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Pre-Sauna Prep
Before stepping into the sauna, cleanse your skin thoroughly to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. This allows your pores to sweat freely and maximizes the detoxifying effects of the heat. Avoid applying heavy creams or oils beforehand, as these can clog pores and inhibit sweating. -
During Sauna
Try not to touch your face too often, as your skin will be more sensitive. Keep hydrated by sipping water to avoid dehydration from excessive sweating. In a steam sauna, deep breathing can also be beneficial, not just for respiratory health but for relaxing facial muscles. -
Post-Sauna Care
Right after leaving the sauna, rinse off with cool water to remove any toxins that may have surfaced on your skin. For a deeper exfoliation, use a body scrub like the Manjeri's Coconut Bliss Body Scrub, which can help remove dead skin cells.Finally, seal in hydration with a nourishing moisturizer or body butter. Manjeri’s Sweet Almond Body Butter is a fantastic choice, as it delivers deep moisture to freshly exfoliated skin, helping to keep it soft and glowing.
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Frequency
For most skin types, 1-2 sessions per week can deliver benefits without overwhelming your skin. If you’re new to saunas, start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration as your body adapts.
Why Saunas Are More Than Just a Luxury
Adding sauna sessions to your routine can do wonders for your skin and well-being. Whether you choose the intense heat of a dry sauna or the humid warmth of a steam room, each offers unique benefits that elevate both your skincare and self-care experience.
These wellness practices have roots in traditions worldwide, celebrated for their health and beauty benefits. Embracing these ancient methods allows you to experience a deeply restorative ritual, and when combined with quality skincare products, it’s a journey towards more radiant, resilient skin.
So, are you ready to level up your skincare with the powerful benefits of sauna therapy? Whether it’s a dry sauna, steam sauna, or both, your skin will thank you for it.
