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The Sauna is an Escape — But is it Wrecking Our Hair? Here’s What to Do.

Here's here's how to protect your strands from the sauna without giving it up:

FEBRUARY 25, 2025

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Hi! I have a hate-hate relationship with winter. Sorry.. The cold? Absolutely not for me. Recently I got a new truck (that's a whole other blog in stress management) and, because I got an education in mileage, I actually looked up how many miles you'd put on a car driving back and forth from Florida to the Cape. Snowbird dreams are not happening anytime soon so - for now - I escape to the sauna. It's my one little ritual I look forward to when everything outside feels drab. But lately, I’ve noticed something: my hair is majorly reacting. No matter how much I hydrate, it’s dry, brittle, and just... off. Turns out, all that cozy sauna time is pulling moisture straight out of my hair, leaving it frizzy, dehydrated, and ready to snap. It's BAD! So, what’s the move? Give it up? I could never!! The benefits are too great:

First — Let's Talk Benefits of the Sauna

Mood

  • Boosts endorphins
  • Reduces stress
  • Promotes better sleep

Muscle Recovery

  • Muscle repair
  • Post workout recovery
  • Blood circulation
Hair
  • Stimulates keratin
  • Balances scalp's PH
  • Clears dead skin cells

Immunity

  • Vitality boost
  • Help flush toxins
  • Encourage white blood cell production to fight illness
Detoxification
  • Liver support
  • Promotes gut health
  • Helps purge heavy metals
Glowing Skin
  • Pore cleansing
  • Oxygenates the skin
  • Stimulates collagen synthesis

See.. there's even benefits to the hair. Just like winter, there's pros & cons I suppose.  Because, now that I think of it, I do really love a slow cooker meal. Ok, back to slowly cooking my hair in the sauna. It's deep fried and there's no doubt about it so what can I do? I researched and tried some popular ways to share here incase anyone else following experiences the same issue. One thing I know is the girls are hitting the sauna this season. That's another benefit of it - the social aspect. Sometimes I'll connect with other women at in sauna about books we're loving or recipes we're trying. I only wish ours was as picturesque as the dream sauna above.

How to Protect Your Hair from the Sauna

It’s all about creating a barrier between your hair and the heat, so let’s dive into it..

Slather on a DIY Leave-In Hair Oil

Use a DIY nourishing oil vs. deep conditioner to avoid synthetic chemicals and go for a pure, botanical oil during detox time. You also don't want a pore clogging hair conditioner dripping down your back and causing breakouts. 

I’ll use pure, organic jojoba oil (readily available because I formulate with it) on damp hair. Damp because you're going to get better absorption and even distribution. Damp hair is more porous, allowing the oil to penetrate deeper for moisture and heat protection. 

Wear a Towel or Sauna Cap 

Little Miss Muffet, the sauna is SO good for you I promise it's worth looking a little ridiculous. Trust me, it works. Do wear a shower cap over your DIY Leave-In Hair Oil. Or bring a towel or two to the sauna. One for your hair and one to sit/sweat on. Wearing a towel or a sauna cap helps keep the heat off your hair, minimizing direct exposure. You’re basically creating a protective cocoon for your hair. And hey, I know it sounds like a lot of stuff so here is an excuse to get yourself a cute gym bag for it all.

Skip the Tight Ponytail

Heat weakens hair, and tight ponytails? Not the best combo. Tightening your hair too much can cause unnecessary strain, leading to breakage. Instead, opt for a loose braid or bun. It’ll still keep your hair out of your face, but with way less risk of damaging your precious strands. Actually a braid with the DIY Leave-In Hair Oil is perfect. Can anyone do the fishtail braid? Core memory from my youth that I used to love. How Cape Saltie!!

Rinse with Cool Water Afterward

Once you’re done sweating it out, it’s time for the post-sauna refresh. A cool water rinse is key—it helps close your hair cuticles, locking in moisture from your conditioner or oil. Plus, it feels amazing after the heat, right?

Deep Condition Weekly

If your hair's been through a lot lately (we’re talking heat, styling, the works), it’s time to give it some TLC. Make a deep-conditioning mask or treatment part of your weekly everything shower routine. Your hair will thank you. Not only will it restore moisture, but it’ll also keep your strands feeling soft and smooth. Here is one I likebut would not let drip down my skin in the sauna.

Step Away from the Hair Dryer..

Last but definitely not least—let that hair air dry as much as you can. Using a blow dryer right after a sauna session? That’s heat overload! Instead, let hair dry naturally. It’s a better option for your strands and will help maintain that smooth, healthy look you’re going for.

There's also a couple other non-haircare related tips I'll share here because, really, I do consider myself a budding sauna connoisseur!


1. Wear my Vacationer Blended Essential Oil in the sauna. This little chamomile and mint blend feels like a an envigorating breath mint for the mind and brings cool-blue, cold plunge vibes to any heated moment.


2. Bring a paperback book inside with you. Leave your phone in a locker - it's going to overheat anyways - and enjoy (approximately) a page a minute for 20 minutes. That's more than ample time to experience the benefits and the book will help the time go by when it gets a little difficult at the end.


3. Find a gym with a sauna. It's more economical to go more frequently than pay for individual visits. My gym, Mid-Cape Athletic Club, offers a reasonably priced monthly to have access to the gym as well as a traditional sauna. You can also upgrade your membership and add on the infrared sauna for a limited time.. so, for example, I could add it on for the time I use it during the winter and take it off in summer. Love that.


Sauna time isn’t just about sweating—it really is a mind-body reset. Right? The heat boosts circulation, clears your mind, and leaves you feeling brand new, but a few tips goes a long way. Protect your hair, bring something to read, roll on our oil and make the experience intentional. Whether it’s locking in moisture with the right oil, turning the session into a mini digital detox, or finding a gym setup that keeps it affordable, it’s all about making it work for you. Step in, breathe deep, and let the heat do its thing—you’ll walk out feeling better every time. 


Sea you there!

Xx JD