Are Infrared Saunas good or bad for skin/collagen? At what point would it be safe to use one after a facelift?

Question

I am contemplating getting a facelift some time this year. I own an infrared sauna. I'm wondering if infrared saunas are considered good or bad for skin/collagen? I don't want to use it after a facelift if the technology will "age" my skin faster and defeat the progress I get with a facelift. Infrared sauna manufacturers claim these types of sauna's heat layers of tissue deeper than traditional saunas - at what point would it be safe to use an infrared sauna after a face lift? Thank you.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is probably best to wait at least one month before undergoing any type of sauna after a facelift procedure will evenly. Best check in with your operative surgeon.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Check with your surgeon about the sauna.  They have been known to damage the collagen.  Protect your skin after your surgery with a good skin treatment system.

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Emily,Hello and thank you for your excellent question. It is best to answer your question during a face-to-face evaluation, when you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and you can have a physical examination to evaluate for that procedure. My initial response is that your sauna should be fine when you are 100% healed from your procedure, which could take 3-4 weeks. I recommend that you find a board-certified, or board-eligible plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of similar patients whom have had this procedure. If you have any questions, call our office for assistance. Good luck!
  
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc” 2017, 2018
  
RealSelf100
  
America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, Consumer’s Research Council, 2010 – 2018
  
BeautyAdvisor Top Contributor

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Emily, When you seek facelift consultations discuss your question regarding infrared sauna use with your surgeon. Every surgeon has a different protocol. In my practice I have many patients who like to use the infrared sauna and I have no concerns with them using this after they are healed. The supposed benefits of using an infrared sauna are:
better sleeprelaxationdetoxificationweight lossrelief from sore musclesrelief from joint pain such as arthritisclear and tighter skinimproved circulationhelp for people with chronic fatigue syndromeBest regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Are Infrared Saunas good or bad for skin/collagen? At what point would it be safe to use one after a facelift?

Answers (4)

Answer: Facelift and Infrared Sauna

Answer: Facelift and Infrared Sauna

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Are Infrared Saunas good or bad for skin/collagen? At what point would it be safe to use one after a facelift?

Answers (4)

Answer: Facelift and Infrared Sauna

Answer: Facelift and Infrared Sauna

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.