How to Protect Your Hair in a Dry Sauna

Saunas have been part of Scandinavian society for more than 2,000 years, and are touted as a treatment for chronic pain, according to Finlandia Sauna. A dry sauna is different from a wet sauna in that moisture is not spread into the air by way of hot stones. Instead, a radiator, infrared light other heat source is used to put heat and moisture into the air. In moist heat, hair can become frizzy, although it will most likely not result in permanent damage. To protect your hair from becoming frizzy, cover it as much as possible and apply products to help tame it.

A woman prepares to enter a sauna wearing a towel on her head. (Image: Voyagerix/iStock/Getty Images)

Step 1

Apply a smoothing hair serum containing silicone. Squeeze a dime-sized amount into one palm, and then rub your hands together to evenly distribute the serum. Run your hands through your hair, and gently comb the serum through your hair until it's evenly distributed. If your hair becomes greasy or flat easily, avoid using the serum on the roots or scalp.

Step 2

Wrap your hair in a towel, shower cap or bathing cap to keep moisture and heat out of your hair in the sauna. Wearing a cap made from felt helps keep heat from damaging your hair.

Step 3

Stay in the sauna for no longer than 15 to 20 minutes. Staying in a sauna for longer may cause dehydration.

Step 4

Apply a moisturizing conditioner to your hair after you get out of the sauna. Leave the conditioner on for five to 10 minutes.

Step 5

Rinse the conditioner out of your hair with cool water for soft, manageable hair with no frizziness.

Things You'll Need

• Smoothing hair serum

• Towel, bathing cap, shower cap or felt cap

• Moisturizing conditioner

Warning

Consult a doctor before using a sauna. Individuals with congestive heart failure and other medical conditions should not use a sauna.