What exactly is sweat?
When body temperature rises too high, the body releases sweat to cool itself down. Exercise in hot environments, extreme stress, or both can contribute to overheating. When body temperature rises above a safe threshold, the nervous system initiates a process that triggers sweat secretion from the sweat glands. This removes excess heat by evaporating the fluid from the surface of the skin.
Similar to the human body, sweat is primarily composed of water. But have you ever wondered why your lips feel slightly salty when you sweat? Well, sweat is produced by the sweat glands on the skin, but in the process it absorbs trace amounts of sodium (salt), potassium and calcium.
Sweating has some benefits for the skin
Sweating is an important indicator of a healthy body and glowing skin. Sweating helps you regulate your body temperature in hot summers. A common misconception about skin care is that sweating makes your skin oily and clogs your pores. Neither of these is really the case. If you’re not sweating, it’s a sign that your pores are already clogged and your skin is about to have an acne breakout. When you sweat heavily, you naturally drink more water to quench your thirst, which has numerous positive effects on your skin.
Exfoliating effect due to perspiration
With sweat, the body removes dead skin cells, exposing fresh skin. Not only does this unclog pore, but it also thoroughly cleanses the skin of dirt and debris. This restores the natural flow of nutrient-rich blood and cleansing lymphatic fluid, leaving the skin looking healthier and firmer. In addition, it helps with dry skin and allergy symptoms.
Sweating improves skin texture and appearance
Sweating activates the body’s circulatory system, increasing the availability of nutrients and other beneficial minerals. That’s why many people with common skin conditions like acne, scars and psoriasis use saunas or infrared cabins to get relief.
Sweating rejuvenates the skin
Sweat not only leaves your skin feeling moist, but also clean and refreshed. When you look at yourself in the mirror after a strenuous workout or sauna session, your skin looks radiant and refreshed. This is because your skin is free of all pollutants and has good blood circulation.
Tips for beautiful skin
To enjoy all the benefits of sweating without risking breakouts, rashes and skin irritation, follow these six simple applications before going to the sauna:
- Don’t forget to drink enough water before and after your sauna session. The more water in your sweat, the lower the risk of skin irritation. The pH of the skin can be balanced by sweating, as water adds minerals, acids and proteins to sweat.
- To prepare for your sauna session, take a quick shower to wash off-road dust.
- Wear bathrobes to keep you dry. By keeping sweat away from your skin, you can avoid chafing and other skin irritations. Some manufacturers use antimicrobial materials to further reduce skin irritation and rashes caused by germs.
- After your sauna session, take a cold shower and rinse thoroughly.
- Use a loofah sponge or a brush with natural bristles to scrub off dead skin.
- Apply a pH-neutral deodorant, lotion or moisturizer after you’ve dried off after your shower. This will restore the skin’s natural pH. Showering can upset the skin’s delicate pH balance, stripping it of protective oils and moisture. To restore it, use a deodorant or lotion that is pH neutral.
