The sauna, skin and skin diseases

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Thermotherapy
• Public Health

Background:

• Sauna bathing offers aesthetic pleasure but can cause adverse skin reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Atopic dermatitis and cholinergic urticaria are conditions that may be exacerbated by heat and sweating.
• Skin hydration and hygiene practices are crucial for managing skin conditions during sauna use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of Finnish sauna bathing on various skin conditions.
• To identify potential adverse reactions and beneficial outcomes associated with sauna use.
• To provide recommendations for safe and effective sauna bathing practices.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on sauna bathing and skin health.
• Analysis of reported cases of adverse skin reactions during sauna use.
• Evaluation of the impact of sauna heat on microorganisms and skin conditions like psoriasis.

Main Results:

• Sauna heat can induce itching in individuals with atopic dermatitis and trigger cholinergic urticaria.
• Sauna bathing does not inherently dry the skin; improper washing habits are a contributing factor.
• Sauna heat effectively kills dermatophytes and other infective microorganisms.
• Sauna bathing aids in the removal of hyperkeratotic scales in psoriasis, with emollients and topical treatments proving beneficial.

Conclusions:

• While some individuals may experience adverse reactions like itching, Finnish sauna bathing offers significant benefits for skin health.
• Proper hygiene, including soap use in specific areas and avoiding abrasive tools, is recommended.
• Sauna therapy can be a beneficial adjunct treatment for psoriasis and a method for microbial decontamination.