I entered the sauna to unwind, but I was shocked to see how much the steam had changed my scars—as though it had spoken secrets of cure to my skin. While there are many advantages to using a sauna, it’s vital to be aware of any possible disadvantages, such as the possibility of heat-related skin irritation. Infrared baths are said to be the best when it comes to scarring.

They tear down scar tissue by raising the number of white blood cells, encouraging a process called improving blood circulation. Keeping the sauna level close to 130 °F for about ten minutes is advised for the best scar treatment outcomes. Saunas’ efficacy in treating and preventing wounds may be improved by conducting further research on the connection between heat and scars.

Saunas help to get rid of scars

Although scarring is a normal component of recovery after an injury, infrared saunas may help prevent scarring. The far-infrared radiation that these spas generate can reach deep into the skin, according to Japanese physician Dr. Toshiko Yamazaki, MD, and gradually improve the look of acne scars. Plasma and epidermal cells flow toward locations that have been damaged as a result of this radiation.

Saunas produce heat, which improves blood flow to organs and speeds up healing by raising white blood cell counts, which may help break down scar tissue already in place.  Increased cell division in the dermal and epidermal layers could aid in the healing of skin scars, including keloids, after burns or deliveries. Although there isn’t much information on how conventional or steam baths affect wound healing, there is exciting potential for more studies in this field.

See also: Are Steam Rooms Good for Acne? (Better, worse, or Similar)

Sweating for scars (good or bad)

The pores that cause perspiration affect healing as well. Sweating helps heal scars because it increases blood flow to the damaged region, which breaks down scar tissue. Because of the increased circulation, the damaged area’s tissues and rigid joints can relax and become more flexible.

Sweating gradually improves blood circulation, which aids in the regeneration of tissues and the removal of waste products that are stored in muscles. Sweating has also been proven to lower the body’s histamine levels. Histamines are released during sickness or times of stress, and they play a role in the inflammation that is often linked to the growth of scars.

Heat for scars (good or bad)

Understanding the many kinds of scars, such as acne scars, hypertrophic, and keloid scars, is essential. Although infrared baths are good for scars of a specific kind, such as hypertrophy or rigidity scars, too much heat can aggravate keloid scars, making them darker or more irritating because of the increased circulation to the region. It is also crucial to schedule infrared sessions properly, ideally following the healing of the wound but before the production of significant scars.

Keloid scars are more extensive than the initial injury and might cause discomfort, swelling, redness, or itching. Contracture scars cause the skin to draw internally, giving the surrounding tissue a twisted look. Red and increased hypertrophic wounds are usually the result of overproduction of collagen. It’s best to speak with a healthcare provider before beginning infrared therapy to be sure that the heat won’t damage your scar.

What is a scar?

A scar is a persistent mark that remains on the skin or in tissues of the body during the healing of an accident or injury. When the body replaces and repairs injured skin or tissue, scars are left behind as a normal part of the healing process. Their look, feel, and size might differ according to several circumstances, including the kind of wound and the individual’s healing process. Scars can be temporary or permanent, and they can vary in color from boosted and deeper than the surrounding skin to flat and light.

What is an internal scar?

Ordinary scars and internal scars are similar, but both of them arise inside the body. They arise from internal injury, such as rips in muscles or tendons, and they can appear on the joints and ligaments as a result of physical trauma, surgical operations, or repeated actions. The scar cream, in the palm of my hand, had promises of renewal; every soft touch served as a reminder that healing is a path best followed with patience and confidence.

Benefits and Risks of Saunas For Scars

The benefits and risks of saunas for scars are given below:

Benefits:

• Enhanced Blood Flow: The heat from baths causes a decrease in blood, which boosts blood flow to damaged tissue. Over time, this increased circulation may help wounds break down.
• Better Healing: The heat from the spa helps increase the development of elastin and collagen, two important building blocks for skin restoration. This may result in better wound healing, which over time may lessen their visibility.
• Relaxation of Muscles and Joints: Infrared treatments can aid in the relaxation of tense muscles and stiff joints, promoting more flexibility in areas of scars. This ease of mind might lead to improved general comfort and movement.
• Enhanced Skin Texture: By encouraging cleaning and cell turnover, frequent steam usage may help enhance the texture of damaged skin. Over time, this may lead to a more fair and even skin tone.

Risks:

• Irritation: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures may irritate scar tissue, causing it to become more red, irritated, or uncomfortable. People who have keloid scars in particular need to exercise caution since too much heat might make them seem worse.
• Darkening of Scars: High temperatures can darken marks, making them stand out more. Some people may experience this impact more than others, depending on their skin type or wound type.
• Overheating: Extended exposure to high sauna temperatures can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke. For these reasons, it’s critical to keep an eye on steam sessions and maintain proper hydration.
• Delays in Healing: Excessive heat exposure can occasionally affect the normal healing process that heals scars, resulting in compromised or delayed healing. Before utilizing a steam room to treat scars, it is necessary to speak with a healthcare provider, particularly in cases of recent or serious injuries.

Thus, even though infrared therapy may be beneficial for managing scars, it’s crucial to use moderation and care to reduce the threats related to heat exposure. It is best to speak with the doctor to find out if using a hot tub is appropriate for your particular scar condition and general health.

Conclusion

Sauna treatment improves blood circulation, encourages cell regeneration, and reduces inflammation, making it a useful alternative to scar repair. Sweating encourages detoxification and purifies the skin, while the heat from infrared sessions promotes nutrient and oxygen supply to scar tissue, helping with tissue healing.

Before beginning infrared therapy for scar repair, there are a few things to keep in mind. To avoid any injury, factors including irritation from the skin, open wounds, and temperature sensitivity must be taken into consideration. Each person may respond differently, and sauna treatments should be used in addition to other scar treatment methods that a medical specialist has prescribed. 

In conclusion, sauna treatment may help with scar healing, but it’s important to proceed carefully and see a healthcare professional before beginning. You may decide whether to include infrared therapy in your scar treatment plan by being aware of the hazards and your limits.

See also: Exfoliate Before or After a Sauna (With Useful Tips)

FAQs

The most frequently asked questions are given below:

Are saunas bad for scars?

Frequent bathhouse usage improves the texture and tone of the skin, reducing the visibility of scars. Over time, improvements to the color, smoothness, and overall look of the complexion can considerably minimize acne scars.

Is a sauna bad for stitches?

While the other group was not allowed to use the bath until their stitches were removed, the other group was instructed to do so starting on the third surgical day. Findings: There were no variations in the two groups’ wound healing rates. In conclusion, there is no justification for excluding patients in this patient category from baths.

Can you go to the sauna after the C-section?

It is advised to take daily showers while recovering to avoid infection. Additionally, you should wear clean cotton underwear. Because you run a higher risk of infection, it is not advised to use hot tubs, steam rooms, or swimming pools.

See more: Is Your Skin Burning in an Infrared Sauna? (Workings of Infrared Rays)