Itching after the sauna: an alarm sign for your skin?

Why does the skin sometimes itch after the sauna? After a visit to the sauna, it is quite possible that the skin itches. However, this is usually not a cause for concern, as there can be several reasons for this.
The sauna and its advantages
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The sauna and its advantages

The sauna has been an integral part of many cultures for centuries and offers numerous benefits for body and mind. Regular sauna sessions can strengthen the immune system, promote blood circulation and reduce stress. But sometimes you may suffer from itching after a sauna session. Is this a warning sign for your skin? In this article we will go into the possible causes and show you how to avoid and treat itching after sauna.

Causes of itching after sauna

There are several reasons why your skin may itch after a sauna session. Some of the most common causes are:

  1. Dry skin: The heat of the sauna can cause the skin to lose moisture and dry out. Dry skin is more prone to itching (source: German Green Cross).
  2. Excessive sweating: In the sauna, you sweat more than usual. This can lead to an accumulation of sweat and dirt on the skin, which can cause irritation and itching.
  3. Allergic reactions: Some people are allergic to certain materials (e.g. towels, bathing clothes) or to fragrances in infusions used in the sauna (source: Allergy Information Service).
  4. Sensitive skin: People with sensitive skin, e.g. neurodermatitis or psoriasis, may experience increased itching after a sauna visit.

Prevention and treatment of itching after visiting the sauna

If you suffer from itching after taking a sauna, you can take several measures to prevent or relieve it:

  1. Skin care: Make sure to cleanse and care for your skin thoroughly before and after visiting the sauna. Use mild soaps and shower gels as well as moisturizing lotions or creams to maintain the moisture content of your skin(source: Apotheken Umschau).
  2. Rinse off: Thoroughly rinse off sweat and dirt immediately after the sauna session. This helps to avoid skin irritation and itching.
  3. Infusions: Use infusions that do not contain allergenic fragrances to avoid possible allergic reactions.
  4. Sensitive skin: People with sensitive skin should adjust their sauna visit individually, e.g. choose shorter sauna sessions or lower temperatures.

Conclusion: Itching after a sauna session – a reason to worry?

Itching after a sauna session is not necessarily an alarm sign for your skin. In many cases, simple measures such as skin care, thorough rinsing or the use of skin-compatible infusions can prevent or relieve itching. However, if the itching persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist to clarify possible skin diseases or allergies.

What care products help against itching after sauna?

A jerky feeling after the sauna can occur due to dry skin and sweating. To alleviate this, there are some products that can help:

  1. Moisturizer: Moisturizer can be used to soothe and moisturize the skin after sweating. Apply a moisturizer to the affected area to relieve itching and dryness.
  2. Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties on the skin. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area to relieve itching and relax the skin.
  3. Coconut oil: Coconut oil has antimicrobial and moisturizing properties that can help relieve itching. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected area to soothe and moisturize the skin.
  4. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve itching. To relieve itching, soak a cotton cloth with chamomile tea and place it on the affected area.

However, you should take into account that these products do not work equally well for everyone. If itching persists or worsens, seek medical attention for appropriate treatment.

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