If you’re going to sauna, you should wear clothing that is comfortable and breathable. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon that trap heat against the skin and cause discomfort, irritation and prevent body temperature regulation. Instead, choose a breathable material like cotton that allows sweat to pass through the fabric and your skin.
Ideally, you should go barefoot in the sauna. If that’s not possible, wear something light like shower sandals or sliders to protect your feet from bacteria. It’s also important to avoid perfume and makeup as these can irritate the skin. If you’re using a public sauna, be mindful of other users and try not to interfere with their experience by making loud noises or blocking the entrance or exit. If you’re planning to use essential oils, be careful not to overdo it as the high temperatures of a sauna can cause them to evaporate quickly and could potentially burn or irritate your skin.
If you do need to wear clothing in the sauna, a soft towel is an ideal choice. It will absorb your sweat and keep the bench clean so it’s not a breeding ground for germs. Also, you should remove any metal jewelry or piercings before entering the sauna as they can heat up and cause painful irritation. After your sauna session, it’s recommended that you rinse off with warm water and skip the soap to allow the pores on your skin to open up and release any trapped toxins.