Does the sauna dry out your hair?

Saunas have been used for centuries for their many health benefits, including stress relief, improved circulation, and detoxification. However, there is some concern that saunas may dry out hair and contribute to hair loss. In this article, we will explore whether or not the sauna can have a negative effect on hair health and what you can do to protect your locks during your sauna sessions.

Does the Sauna Dry Out Your Hair?

The short answer is yes, the sauna can dry out your hair. The high heat and humidity in the sauna can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. This is especially true if you spend a lot of time in the sauna or if you have naturally dry or damaged hair.

Infrared Sauna and Hair Growth

However, there is some evidence to suggest that saunas may actually be beneficial for hair growth. Infrared saunas, in particular, have been shown to increase blood flow and stimulate hair growth in some people. This is because the infrared heat penetrates deeper into the skin and scalp, promoting circulation and stimulating hair follicles.

Are Saunas Good for Your Hair?

Overall, saunas can be beneficial for hair health if used in moderation and with proper precautions. The heat and humidity in the sauna can help to open up hair follicles and promote circulation, which can stimulate hair growth and improve overall hair health.

Sauna Benefits for Hair

In addition to promoting hair growth, saunas have several other benefits for hair health. These include:

1. Detoxification: Saunas help to flush toxins from the body, which can improve the overall health of your hair and scalp.

2. Stress Relief: Stress can contribute to hair loss and other hair problems. Saunas are known for their stress-relieving properties, which can help to promote healthier hair.

3. Improved Circulation: The heat and humidity in the sauna can improve circulation, which can help to deliver vital nutrients and oxygen to the hair and scalp.

4. Dandruff Prevention: The high heat and humidity in the sauna can help to prevent dandruff by keeping the scalp moisturized.

Does Sauna Cause Hair Loss?

There is some concern that saunas may contribute to hair loss, especially in people who already have thinning hair or a predisposition to hair loss. The high heat and humidity in the sauna can damage hair follicles and cause hair to become brittle and prone to breakage. However, this is only a concern if you spend a lot of time in the sauna or if you have pre-existing hair loss or damage.

Sauna Effect on Hair

The effect of the sauna on your hair depends on several factors, including the type of sauna, the duration of your sessions, and your hair type and condition. Here are some things to keep in mind when using the sauna:

1. Use a Hair Mask: Applying a hair mask or deep conditioning treatment to your hair before entering the sauna can help to protect it from the heat and humidity. The mask will help to lock in moisture and prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle.

2. Keep Sessions Short: Limit your sauna sessions to 15-20 minutes at a time to prevent overheating and minimize the risk of hair damage.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before and after your sauna session can help to keep your body and hair hydrated.

4. Protect Your Hair: Wearing a cap or towel over your hair can help to protect it from the heat and humidity in the sauna. You can also try tying your hair up in a loose bun or braid to keep it out of your face.

Hair Mask in Sauna

Using a hair mask or deep conditioning treatment in the sauna can help to protect your hair from the heat and humidity. Simply apply the 

mask or treatment to your hair before entering the sauna, and leave it on for the duration of your session. This will help to lock in moisture and prevent your hair from becoming dry and brittle.

Sauna and Hair Growth

As mentioned earlier, saunas, particularly infrared saunas, have been shown to increase blood flow and stimulate hair growth in some people. This is because the increased circulation and deep-penetrating heat can promote healthier hair follicles and encourage hair growth.

Sauna and Hair Loss

While the sauna can contribute to hair dryness and breakage, there is little evidence to suggest that it directly causes hair loss. However, if you have pre-existing hair loss or damage, the high heat and humidity in the sauna can exacerbate these issues and make hair loss more noticeable.

Hair Sauna

A hair sauna is a specialized type of sauna that is designed specifically for hair and scalp health. These saunas typically use lower temperatures and less humidity than traditional saunas, and they may also incorporate hair and scalp treatments to help nourish and protect the hair.

Is Sauna Good for Your Hair?

Overall, the sauna can be good for your hair if used in moderation and with proper precautions. The heat and humidity in the sauna can help to open up hair follicles and promote circulation, which can stimulate hair growth and improve overall hair health. However, it's important to protect your hair from the heat and humidity by using a hair mask or deep conditioning treatment, limiting your sessions to 15-20 minutes at a time, and staying hydrated.

Sauna and Cold Water for Hair

Some people believe that alternating between the sauna and cold water can be beneficial for hair health. The theory is that the heat from the sauna can open up hair follicles and promote circulation, while the cold water can help to close the follicles and lock in moisture.

While there is limited scientific evidence to support this theory, many people find that alternating between the sauna and cold water can help to invigorate their hair and improve its overall health and appearance. However, it's important to be careful when alternating between hot and cold temperatures, as this can be stressful on the body and may exacerbate certain health conditions.

Sauna and Hair Growth: Myth or Reality?

While saunas are not a miracle cure for hair loss, there is some evidence to suggest that they can be beneficial for hair growth. Infrared saunas, in particular, have been shown to increase blood flow and stimulate hair growth in some people. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of saunas on hair health and growth.

Conclusion

While the sauna can be a great way to relax and improve your overall health, it's important to take precautions to protect your hair from the heat and humidity. Using a hair mask or deep conditioning treatment, limiting your sessions to 15-20 minutes at a time, and staying hydrated can all help to prevent hair dryness and breakage. Additionally, alternating between the sauna and cold water can be beneficial for some people, but it's important to be careful when doing so. By following these tips, you can enjoy the many benefits of the sauna without compromising your hair health.

Sources:

1. Wiviott, S. D. (2008). Sauna dermatitis. Journal of drugs in dermatology: JDD, 7(8), 798-800.

2. Avci, P., & Gupta, G. K. (2017). Potential of infrared and low-level laser therapy in the management of alopecia. International journal of women's dermatology, 3(1), 53-57.

3. Marconi, A., Bordoni, B., & Bellometti, S. (2013). Effect of heat and moisture exchangers