What precautions should we take when using a sauna?

Sauna is one of the facilities offered today in many residential areas, sports complexes, baths, and hotels. Like SPA culture, the sauna has a history that spans thousands of years. Known as Finland's traditional Finnish bath, the sauna offers many benefits such as accelerating toxin elimination through sweating, benefiting the skin, reducing stress, relaxing muscles, improving sleep, and supporting calorie burning. However, there are certain rules and precautions that must be followed while using a sauna. Here are the essential precautions to keep in mind when using a sauna.

What should be considered when using a sauna?

• The sauna is a shared space and not standardized for every body. Therefore, it is important that individuals entering the sauna take this into account and have a healthy constitution. The precautions to follow in the sauna include:
• Excessive sauna use can be very dangerous. Each sauna may have its own specific instructions, so these instructions should be read carefully.
• Shower before entering the sauna to open pores and dry off thoroughly.
• Do not enter the sauna with plastic materials.
• To prevent salt and water loss during the sauna session, consume water and salty foods in reasonable amounts.
• Do not enter the sauna immediately after heavy or large meals. Leave at least 2 hours between eating and sauna use.
• People with cuts, open wounds, or at risk of infection should not use the sauna.
• Individuals with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, epilepsy, diabetes, heart problems, asthma, and pregnant women should use the sauna only with a doctor's approval.
• Since the sauna accelerates metabolism, do not use it while taking stimulants or antibiotics.
• Never enter the sauna under the influence of alcohol.
• People with chronic depression or mental health issues should use the sauna only with a doctor's approval.
• Remove all accessories before entering the sauna. Watches, jewelry, contact lenses, glasses, and clothing can be damaged by high heat and may cause discomfort or injury.
• For hygiene, place a towel under yourself while sitting in the sauna.
• Read usage instructions to learn the minimum and maximum recommended duration. You can leave shortly after sweating begins. The average duration is 5–15 minutes. Staying less than 5 minutes is not effective, and more than 15 minutes may cause harm.
• The sauna can be used twice in 10-minute intervals. For example, stay 10 minutes, then exit for a shower or pool. This cools the body. Rest briefly to lower body temperature and then re-enter the sauna, adding water to the hot stove stones to increase humidity.
• Do not remain in the same position for extended periods.
• Rest for 20 minutes after leaving the sauna to allow the body to return to normal temperature. Then wash with warm water and soap, followed by cold water. Dry off completely before dressing.
• Replenishing water and salt lost during the sauna is important. Consume fruit juice, water, or light snacks.
• The average sauna temperature is 75–85°C. To avoid problems, the sauna temperature should be checked regularly.