Spas are a great way to unwind and relieve tension. They can reduce stress levels and muscle tension, lower blood pressure, increase blood flow and decreased cortisol levels, which is a stress hormone.
These benefits have been observed since the ancient Greeks and Romans recorded the use of natural hot mineral springs.
Our home and gym spas, however, need treatment to stay clean and sanitized like a pool, which usually involves chemicals like chlorine or heavy salts.
So even though we can note the health benefits for your mind and muscles, the question is raised. Are spas good for your skin? How good are these salts and chemicals for your skin? The team here at Ezy Spa have done the research for you.
Some people have sensitive and dry skin, while others have more severe dermal complaints like psoriasis and dermatitis. Even acute acne can be a concern if you suffer accompanying infections.
The data is clear. It seems that not only is a spa good for the mind and body; it is also great for your skin. And if you have suffered irritations in spas in the past, there may be some minor alterations to your spa practices that can help.
Skin benefits of a spa, good for your skin?
Opens pores
The hot bubbling water in a spa opens up the pores of your skin, aiding in the release and removal of oil, dirt and other nasty elements that cause pore blockages, acne and other skin pleasantries.
Enhances dermal blood flow
The heated water also aids with increased blood flow to your skin. This helps the skins with detoxification and healing, also helping clean out blockages that cause possible acne and irritation.
Promotes healthier-looking skin
Everyone loves something that can improve the look of their skin. According to Swim University, the process of a hot spa opening the pores and increasing blood flow also helps transport oxygen and other beneficial nutrients, leaving your skin glowing and refreshed, so very good for your skin.
Other benefits to a regular spas session include:
- Muscle massage and relaxation from the jets
- Increased metabolic rate, aiding weight loss
- Promotion of better sleep
- Aids in the prevention of varicose veins
- Reduced tension headaches
Reduced stress, weight loss and increased blood flow have also been linked to a reduction in the effects of aging. Some studies have even indicated that a regular spa session could also be beneficial for increased longevity.
Skin still affected?
If you have negative skin responses to spas, it may just be a case of modifying your usage. Below are some simple tips to gaining the best health benefits from your spa experience.
Temperature control
Just like a boiling hot shower, prolonged exposure can dry out and irritate your skin in a spa. The ideal spa temperature suggested by experts is to regulate the water to be between 35 – 37° Celsius, with 40°C being the maximum.
Time yourself
We all love a prolonged relaxing soak in a hot spa or tub. But the optimum time for a spa session health-wise, should be kept to around fifteen to twenty minutes. This reduces your skin’s exposure to not only the heat. But also the salt or chlorine used to sanitize the water.
Pre and post spa showers
Another suggestion from spa experts is showering before and after you have your spa session. A pre-shower can aid in the removal of dirt and oil from your body, helping to keep the water clean and reduce unnecessary strain on your pump and filter.
A post spa shower helps to remove chlorine and salt from your body and reduce the chance of drying and irritating your skin after you dry off. If you suffer from dry skin in general, it may be beneficial to apply a light moisturizer to your body or problem areas after you shower.
Know your spa
A spa does require some regular upkeep and an understanding of water quality and chemical control. It is essential to keep your spa water more alkaline than acidic.
Ph levels
It is as vital for your skin, as well as your spa, to keep your water Ph levels in an optimum state. Ph is measured from one to fourteen, one being acidic and fourteen being alkaline.
The optimum ph level for a spa is around the same as your body, which is 7.2 to 7.8, which is the optimum level for your skin health also.
Chemical control
Whether you have a chlorine or salt spa system, it does take some knowledge, as well as some trial and error to get right. This is also affected by the quality of the water supplied in your local area.
Call Ezy Spa for advice and service
If you have any questions or concerns about your spa, the friendly expert team at Ezy Spa are happy to field your questions and provide you with service. We are also professional spa installers and removalist, able to give you complete spa solution services.
Need help with your spa? Contact the professionals at Ezy Spa today. Send us an email, and our staff can contact you and your nearest convenience.