Should you sauna before or after tanning? If you enjoy relaxing heat and glowing skin, you may wonder which comes first.
Is there a right or wrong way to combine these two popular wellness routines?
Saunas and tanning are both great for winding down and feeling refreshed, but doing them in the right order can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll answer your questions step by step. You’ll learn when to sauna, when to tan, how to stay safe, and the easiest routine to follow for the best results.
What Is a Sauna and Why Do People Use It?
What is a sauna and why do people use it? Have you ever stepped into a hot room and instantly felt your muscles relax? That’s a sauna!
A sauna is a small heated space — either dry or steamy — that helps your body sweat and unwind.
But why do people love saunas so much? Saunas open your pores, help ease sore muscles, and boost your circulation.
Just 10–15 minutes can melt away stress, which is why you’ll find them in spas, gyms, and even private homes. They’re also a great way to warm up before another wellness activity, like tanning.
Want to get the temperature just right? See our tips on what temperature a sauna should be.
What Is Tanning and How Does It Work?
What is tanning and how does it work? Do you love the look of sun-kissed skin?
Tanning happens when your skin changes color after being exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or a tanning bed.
But how much tanning is too much? While a golden glow might feel like a confidence boost, too much exposure can lead to burns, dryness, or long-term skin damage.
The secret is to tan smart — keep your sessions short, use sunscreen outdoors, and moisturize afterward.
Should You Sauna Before Tanning?
Should you sauna before tanning? Yes — and here’s why it’s the smarter choice.
Have you ever tried stretching after warming up?
Think of your skin the same way. A sauna session warms your body, opens your pores, and helps your skin absorb UV light more evenly.
Do you want a smoother, more even tan? Starting with the sauna might help.
Just be sure to limit your time to 10–15 minutes, drink plenty of water, and allow your body to cool down before tanning.
Should You Sauna After Tanning?
Should you sauna after tanning? Not the best move — especially if your skin is already warm or sensitive.
After tanning, your skin needs time to recover, not more heat.
Wondering what happens if you add more heat too soon? You might feel extra tired, dizzy, or dry.
The sauna can make redness or sun sensitivity worse. It’s best to give your body a break and save the sauna for another time if you’ve already tanned.
Sauna and Tanning Order: Why It Matters
Sauna and tanning order matters more than you might think. Have you ever ended a spa day feeling worse instead of better?
The order you do things makes a difference. Experts agree that it’s best to sauna first and tan second.
Why? The sauna gets your blood flowing and softens your skin. If you tan first and sauna after, the heat could cause extra dryness or irritation.
For a smoother, healthier glow, warm up in the sauna, take a short break, then begin your tanning session.
Following the correct order not only helps you get better results, it also protects your skin from damage and helps you feel more balanced afterward.
Best Way to Combine Sauna and Tanning for Glowing Skin
Best way to combine sauna and tanning for glowing skin is to treat your body gently and give it time to adjust. Do you want to relax and get a tan without side effects?
Start with a short sauna session to warm and soften the skin.
After cooling down, move into your tanning session — always keeping it short and using sunscreen if you’re outside. When you’re done, rinse off and apply a moisturizer or aloe gel.
This combo works beautifully when done in the right order and with enough care. It leaves your skin glowing, not irritated, and gives you the feeling of a full-body refresh.
Safety Tips for Using a Sauna and Tanning Together
Safety tips for using a sauna and tanning together are important for protecting your skin and body.
Are you trying both for the first time? Following smart safety steps can prevent skin damage, dehydration, and overheating.
Keep these simple but important rules in mind:
- Drink water before and after. Hydration is essential for both heat and UV exposure
- Limit your time. Stick to short sessions — especially when you’re starting out
- Use sunscreen outdoors. Even if you’re tanning, you don’t want to burn
- Moisturize after. Help your skin stay soft and bounce back quickly
- Pay attention to your body. If you feel dizzy, tired, or overheated, stop and rest
Practicing these habits each time you sauna or tan helps build a safer wellness routine over time.
Should You Sauna Before or After Tanning?
Should you sauna before or after tanning? Now you know — sauna first, tan second is the best path to a safe and satisfying experience.
Warming your skin in the sauna helps you tan more evenly and lowers the risk of irritation. On the other hand, using a sauna after tanning can cause dryness and discomfort.
What’s the most important thing to remember? Listen to your body, drink plenty of water, and don’t rush the process.
When done right, sauna and tanning can both become part of a relaxing and glowing wellness routine.
