Should You Shower Before Or After An Infrared Sauna Session? (Important)

Infrared sauna therapy is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable sauna experiences. To get the most health benefits out of your use of infrared sauna sessions, there are some important steps to take. Many people wonder, for instance, whether you should shower before or after the sauna. Read on to learn more. 

Natural health doctors recommend a shower AFTER a sauna session to wash away all the excreted toxins or your skin will reabsorb them. 

However, there are times when showering BEFORE your sauna session is also a good idea. Here is a list of situations where showering beforehand is recommended. 

If You Have Any Open Wounds

You should shower before the sauna session if you have any wounds. This will help to prevent any bacteria from getting into the wound. 

If You Have Eczema

If you have anyskin conditions, such as eczema, it is also best to shower before using the sauna. This will help remove irritants from the skin that the sauna heat could exacerbate.

If You Want To Improve Your Skin Health

You can also shower before the sauna session if the sauna's purpose is to improve your skin health. 

If You Wear a Lot of Oil or Lotion

If you wear a lot of oil, lotion, or makeup, it's best to shower before using an infrared sauna. This will help prevent your pores from getting clogged and make sweat easier.

If You Wear Antiperspirant

If you wear antiperspirant, you should shower before your infrared sauna session. Antiperspirants can block your pores and prevent sweating, which is one of the main benefits of an infrared sauna.

*If You Have Sweat a Lot Already

It is important to shower before your infrared sauna session, so you are not sitting in your sweat. 

NOTE: IF YOU SMOKE, please take a shower BEFORE an infrared sauna session because you don’t want that pollution going into your skin.

How Soon Should You Shower After An Infrared Sauna Session?

It is essential to shower after an infrared sauna session, and it is generally recommended to shower within 15-20 minutes after the session has ended. This helps to remove any sweat and impurities released from the body during the sauna session, and it also helps to cool down the body.

If you have issues with how your skin reacts to heat or want to be extra careful, make sure to let your body cool down a bit before getting in the shower. 

What If You Can't Shower Right Away?

If you can't shower right away, it's still important to cleanse your skin after your sauna session. You can use a washcloth and lukewarm water to wipe down your body. Be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out the toxins.

Shower Temperature After Infrared Sauna Session?

Showering after an infrared sauna session is essential, and the water should be just lukewarm. The shower should be comfortable and not too hot or cold. A hot water shower can strip away the oils released from your skin during the sauna session, leaving your skin feeling dry and irritated.

Are Cold Showers Good For You?

Yes, cold showers are good for you! Cold water exposure has many benefits, including improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and increased energy. The shock from the sudden change in temperature makes your blood vessels stronger and more responsive. Many athletes do cold water showers and feel like it helps remove swelling and reduce pain. I've tried them myself, and I think they do give me more energy.

Other Things That Can Be Beneficial After An Infrared Sauna Session

• Stretching: Saunas warm up the body and relax the muscles, making this an ideal time for stretching. 
• Drinking plenty of water: You can lose as much as a pint of water in only twenty minutes in a sauna, so be sure to replenish what you lose. The health of your liver and kidneys depends on how well hydrated you are. If you use a sauna, it's important to rehydrate by drinking plenty of water afterward. 
• Going for a light walk: After a sauna, a light walk will help you cool down and helps to keep you flexible.
• Taking a nap: It is wonderful to take a nap to refresh your body and de-stress it. Power naps are popular among successful entrepreneurs and other busy people.
• Sleeping at night: Going to the sauna before bed is the first step to making the most of your sauna time for sleep therapy. If possible, go to bed at least 25 minutes after the sauna session. As your core temperature rises, you'll feel a calming effect on your muscles and be more likely to fall asleep faster.
• Have a cup of tea: Green teas and herbal teas are the best to take after the sauna session.
• Meditate: It is best to meditate during or after an infrared sauna session because of more comfortable heat levels. 
• Listen to calming music: Smooth music has a calming effect on humans, and slow-tempo rhythms may encourage a peaceful, thoughtful mindset. Music, among other things, helps to alleviate anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Most people under normal conditions should take a shower directly after a sauna session. There isn't necessarily a right or wrong answer to whether you should shower before or after the sauna session– it depends on what you want to get out of the experience.

If you're looking to relax and detoxify, showering afterward can help wash away any toxins released from your body during the sauna session.

If you're looking for more of a workout, then showering before your sauna session can help you warm up and get your heart rate going. Just be sure to drink plenty of water afterward to avoid dehydration.