If you’re a fan of infrared sauna therapy, you know that it offers numerous benefits for your skin, including detoxification, improved circulation, and reduced inflammation.
But did you know that what you put on your face before entering the sauna can enhance those benefits even further?
In this article, we’ll explore the best products and practices for preparing your skin for an infrared sauna session.
Why Prepare Your Skin Before Infrared Sauna?
Before we delve into the specifics of what to put on your face, let’s first discuss why it’s important to prepare your skin for an infrared sauna session.
First and foremost, infrared heat can cause your skin to sweat profusely, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts if your skin isn’t properly cleaned beforehand.
Additionally, some products can enhance the detoxification and circulation benefits of infrared heat, while others can actually inhibit those benefits.
Finally, certain skincare products can help protect your skin from the potentially damaging effects of infrared radiation.
Step-by-Step Guide: What to Put on Your Face Before Infrared Sauna
Here is a step-by-step guide for preparing your skin for an infrared sauna session:
Step 1: Cleanse Your Face Thoroughly
Before entering the sauna, it’s crucial to cleanse your face thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup that could clog your pores. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Avoid using exfoliants or harsh scrubs, as these can irritate your skin and make it more sensitive to heat.
Step 2: Apply a Hydrating Serum
Infrared heat can be drying to the skin, so it’s important to hydrate your skin before entering the sauna. Apply a hydrating serum that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help attract moisture to your skin and lock it in. This will help prevent dehydration and keep your skin looking plump and healthy.
Step 3: Use a Detoxifying Mask
Infrared heat can help detoxify your skin by promoting sweating and increasing blood flow. You can enhance these benefits by using a detoxifying mask before your sauna session. Look for a mask that contains ingredients like activated charcoal, bentonite clay, or kaolin clay, which can help draw out impurities and unclog pores. Apply the mask to your face and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off.
Step 4: Apply a Protective Moisturizer
Infrared radiation can potentially damage your skin by producing free radicals, so it’s important to protect your skin with a moisturizer that contains antioxidants. Look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, or green tea extract, which can help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. Apply the moisturizer after your serum has absorbed.
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
Infrared radiation is also a form of UV radiation, so it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to your face before entering the sauna. Look for a sunscreen that contains physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these are less likely to be absorbed by your skin and cause irritation.
Other Tips for Preparing Your Skin for Infrared Sauna
In addition to the steps outlined above, here are a few more tips for preparing your skin for an infrared sauna session:
- Drink plenty of water before and after your session to stay hydrated.
- Avoid wearing makeup or heavy moisturizers that could clog your pores.
- Remove any metal jewelry, as metal can heat up and burn your skin in the sauna.
- Tie your hair back to keep it away from your face and neck.
- Use a clean towel or cloth to wipe away sweat during your session to prevent bacteria buildup on your skin.
- After your session, rinse your face with cool water to close your pores and remove any sweat or impurities.
Conclusion
Infrared sauna therapy offers numerous benefits for your skin, but it’s important to prepare your skin properly to enhance those benefits and avoid potential damage.
Cleansing your skin thoroughly, using a hydrating serum and protective moisturizer, and applying sunscreen can help protect your skin from the potentially damaging effects of infrared radiation.
Using a detoxifying mask before your session can also enhance the detoxification benefits of the sauna.
With these tips and practices, you can enjoy all the benefits of infrared sauna therapy without sacrificing the health of your skin.
FAQs
- Can I wear makeup in the sauna?
It’s best to avoid wearing makeup in the sauna, as it can clog your pores and prevent your skin from sweating properly.
- Can I use a toner before entering the sauna?
Yes, you can use a toner before entering the sauna, as long as it’s gentle and non-irritating to your skin.
- How often should I use an infrared sauna?
It’s recommended to use an infrared sauna 2-3 times per week, with each session lasting 20-45 minutes.
- Can infrared saunas cause skin damage?
Infrared radiation can potentially produce free radicals and cause oxidative stress in the skin, so it’s important to protect your skin with antioxidants and sunscreen before entering the sauna.
- Can I apply a facial oil before entering the sauna?
It’s best to avoid using facial oils before entering the sauna, as they can trap heat and cause your skin to sweat excessively. Instead, use a hydrating serum and protective moisturizer.
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