Sauna Safety Guidelines

Sauna bathing is generally safe and beneficial for most healthy people, but there are important safety guidelines to follow. Harvard Health and Cleveland Clinic recommend sessions of 15-20 minutes with proper hydration.

Who should avoid or use caution

Heart Conditions

If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent heart attack, or severe heart disease, do not use a sauna without medical clearance.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women, especially in the first trimester, should avoid saunas. Consult your doctor before any heat exposure.

Acute Illness

If you're sick with a fever or infection, don't sauna. Wait until you're recovered as heat stress can worsen symptoms.

Medications

Some medications interfere with heat response. Check with your doctor if you're on diuretics, antihistamines, or heart medications.

General tips

Hydrate before, during, and after your session
Limit sessions to 15-20 minutes maximum
Start with lower temperatures if you're a beginner
Never combine alcohol with sauna use
Exit immediately if you feel dizzy or unwell
Cool down gradually after exiting
Always sit on a towel for hygiene
Remove metal jewelry to prevent burns

When to exit: STOP

S
Sick
Feeling unwell
T
Too Hot
Overheating
O
Overstayed
Exceeded time
P
Palpitations
Dizziness

If you experience any of these, exit immediately and cool down.

Next: Beginner's guide →