Winter brings chilling air, which can cause a flare-up of itchy, uncomfortable rashes for those with eczema. Eczema, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, affects millions of Australians, and the colder months frequently worsen its symptoms. Although there is no one-size-fits-all solution, infrared saunas provide a safe and promising option for managing eczema flare-ups over the winter.
This article goes into how IR saunas can help alleviate winter eczema flare-ups.
Understanding eczema and winter flare-ups
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a persistent skin disorder that causes inflammation, itching, and redness. Winter’s severe circumstances can exacerbate eczema symptoms in a variety of ways:
- Dry air: Colder air holds less moisture, stripping away the skin’s natural oils and leading to further dryness and irritation.
- Low humidity: Central heating systems can further dry out the air in your home, contributing to skin discomfort.
- Hot showers: While hot showers can be appealing in chilly weather, they can strip away the skin’s natural oils, worsening eczema symptoms.
These variables combine to form a perfect storm for eczema flare-ups, leaving many people struggling to find relief.
How IR saunas may help
Infrared saunas provide a unique method of relieving eczema flare-ups. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air, IR saunas utilise invisible light waves to penetrate the skin directly and raise the core temperature. This gentle heat has several potential advantages for individuals with eczema:
- Increased blood flow: IR heat promotes circulation, bringing more blood and oxygen to the skin. This can help to promote healing and reduce inflammation, both of which are important aspects of eczema treatment.
- Detoxification: Sweating is the body’s natural means of eliminating toxins. IR saunas can cause deeper sweat, which helps to remove irritants that can trigger eczema flare-ups.
- Stress reduction: Stress is a known trigger for eczema. An IR sauna session’s calming and relaxing environment can help manage stress levels, potentially reducing the severity of flare-ups.
- Moisture retention: The gentle heat of an infrared sauna can help maintain the skin’s moisture balance by encouraging sweating without the excessive heat in traditional saunas.
Important considerations when using IR saunas for eczema
The use of infrared saunas may provide comfort to some people. However, it is important to keep in mind the following factors:
- Consult a doctor: Before using an IR sauna, see your doctor, especially if you have any current health conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medication.
- Hydration: Drink lots of water before, during, and after your sauna session to avoid dehydration.
- Start slowly: Begin with brief sessions (10-15 minutes), gradually increasing the duration as tolerable.
- Listen to your body: If you experience any discomfort, dizziness, or worsening eczema symptoms, stop using the sauna at once and see your doctor.
Remember that IR saunas are not a replacement for traditional eczema treatment programs. They should be taken in conjunction with your doctor’s advice, which could include topical drugs, light treatment, or dietary changes.
Sun Stream Saunas AU: Your partner in winter eczema relief
If you’re looking for a natural way to manage your winter eczema flare-ups, Sun Stream Saunas AU offers a variety of high-quality infrared saunas to choose from. We provide a number of options to fit any budget and space constraints, allowing you to find the perfect sauna for your needs.
Here’s what sets Sun Stream Saunas AU apart:
- Premium quality: We exclusively utilise the best materials in our saunas to ensure durability and long-term function.
- Advanced technology: Our saunas include unique technologies, such as chromotherapy lighting and Bluetooth® music integration, to improve your sauna experience.
- Expert support: Our friendly team is here to answer your questions and help you choose the perfect sauna for your needs.
Contact us and learn how to embrace winter with healthy, hydrated skin and enjoy the relief you deserve.