A sauna is an enclosed room that uses dry or wet heat and can get as hot as 185 degrees. One of the big benefits of both the wet and dry saunas, according the Harvard Health, is that they encourage blood flow to the surface of the skin, including the hair follicles. More blood flow means more nutrients which encourages hair growth. Unfortunately the heat, according to “Thank God I’m Natural,” can also rob moisture from the hair, making it dry, brittle and prone to breakage. Using the sauna for hair growth means taking precautions to retain moisture and prevent breakage.

Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any residue from styling products. Lather once for dry hair and twice for oily hair.

Blot the excess moisture from your hair and apply the deep conditioner. Start at the roots and work the product through to the ends. If your hair tangles easily, use the wide-toothed comb to evenly distribute the product through your hair.

Gather your hair on top of your head, secure your hair with a clip, if necessary. Cover your head with the plastic shower cap.

Set the sauna to a comfortable temperature. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting the temperature. In public saunas, the thermostat may be automatically set to a specific temperature.

Sit in the sauna for up to 20 minutes. Massage your scalp and take periodic sips from the water bottle.

Take a warm shower, after the sauna, to cool down gradually and rinse the conditioner from your hair. Do the final rinse with tepid water to seal the cuticles.

Tip

Use a peppermint-based hair conditioner for extra scalp stimulation.

Warning

If you experience dizziness, leave the sauna immediately Do not use the sauna when you are feeling ill, especially if you have a fever. Avoid drinking alcohol prior to using the sauna. Those with high blood pressure and heart problems should avoid saunas.