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A plastic surgeon has shared an anti-aging tip, and it has gone viral on TikTok.
Dr. Faryan Jalalabadi, a Beverly Hills-based plastic surgeon, has been imparting anti-aging tips to his 38,500 followers for over a year, and one of his recent recommendations is regular use of a sauna.
In a TikTok video, which has garnered over a million views and nearly 100,000 likes as of writing, the doctor explained how daily sauna sessions help slow down the skin's aging process.
"The sauna slows down the aging process of the skin," he said. "It improves collagen and elastic production. It detoxifies the skin through the sweating process."
In addition to its skin-related advantages, the sauna also offers benefits to the heart and lungs, according to Jalalabadi.
The expert explained in the video that using a sauna enhances blood circulation to the skin and releases proteins that safeguard DNA and cells, effectively combating the aging process by the "shock of the heat."
As for how frequently and for how long to use a sauna to truly experience its benefits, Jalalabadi suggested a window of 15 to 20 minutes, asserting that daily sessions are an effective anti-aging practice.
However, he cautioned against excessive use as it might counteract the intended benefits.
"But you can't overdo it," he said. "If you do too much -- like push yourself to do 40 minutes -- you're actually going to age yourself, so don't do that."
Additionally, the plastic surgeon advised individuals with melasma, a skin condition characterized by patches of discoloration, to refrain from taking saunas.
"If you have melasma, unfortunately you have to avoid it," Jalalabadi added. "Because this will exacerbate your hyperpigmentation."
Jalalabadi isn't the only expert who has promoted the skin benefits of saunas.
In an article published by Dermstore, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Erin Gilbert discussed why saunas are good for the skin.
"The thing about saunas is that you're getting pore dilation, you're opening up your pores," she said. "What you're doing in a sauna is you're saying, 'Hey guys, it's really hot in here, I need to get cooler.'"
The dermatologist likened being in a sauna to "exercising your pores" as it encourages this natural process of cooling through sweat.
She underscored the detoxifying effect of sweating, stating that it aids in eliminating impurities or toxins from the skin.
Additionally, clearing out pores through sweating can reduce the likelihood of future breakouts.
Like Jalalabadi, Gilbert also highlighted that sauna sessions lead to enhanced skin circulation, resulting in a healthier appearance.
Improved blood flow, the expert said, delivers more nutrients to the skin, fostering a "rosier, healthier complexion" and overall improved skin health.
The doctor likewise discouraged those with sensitive skin or skin conditions like rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis from taking saunas as they may cause further irritation.
