Sauna hats might seem like a quirky accessory, but they serve an essential purpose in the high heat of a sauna. If you’ve ever wondered why people wear these woolen hats in such hot environments, you’re not alone. In this article, I’ll share why sauna hats are a must-have for your next sauna session and how they can make your experience even more enjoyable.
Key Takeaways:
- Sauna hats protect your head from excessive heat, allowing you to enjoy longer and more comfortable sauna sessions.
- They prevent hair damage and help regulate your body temperature, reducing the risk of dizziness.
- Traditional sauna hats are usually made from wool felt, which offers excellent insulation and durability.
And if you’re keen on embracing traditional Finnish sauna culture, check out Shym Saunas for the best saunas and sauna accessories— no infrared saunas here, just the real traditional Finnish deal!
Why Wear a Sauna Hat?
Cooling and Protection
The primary reason to wear a sauna hat is to keep your head cool.
In a sauna, the hottest air rises, which means your head, being the highest point, gets the most heat. This can make your scalp, ears, and hair feel uncomfortably hot, even if the rest of your body is fine.
While overall sauna can be beneficial for your skin, wearing a sauna hat insulates your head from the heat, allowing you to sit comfortably on the top bench without feeling like you’re overheating.
- Scientific studies support the effectiveness of sauna hats in regulating head temperature. According to Sandell & Davies (2023), sauna hats help to manage the temperature of your head, preventing it from overheating while still allowing your body to benefit from the sauna’s heat.
- This thermal insulation is crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing heat-related issues such as dizziness or nausea.
By using a sauna hat made of thick wool felt, you create a barrier that slows down the heat transfer to your head.
This helps your body warm up more evenly, ensuring that you can relax in the sauna for longer periods without feeling the intense heat too quickly. As a result, your sauna sessions become safer and more enjoyable, allowing you to unwind fully without the discomfort of overheating.
In fact, prolonged sauna sessions can significantly enhance the health benefits associated with sauna use. Laukkanen et al. (2018) found that extended sauna use can improve cardiovascular health and aid in detoxification, benefits that are maximized by the cooling effect of a sauna hat.
Hair Protection
For those who regularly use a sauna, hair protection is another significant benefit of wearing a sauna hat. High temperatures can dry out your hair, leading to brittleness and split ends over time. This is particularly concerning if you have color-treated or fragile hair.
A sauna hat acts as a barrier, preventing the hot air from stripping away the moisture from your hair. This simple accessory helps maintain your hair’s natural shine and reduces the risk of damage, so you can enjoy your sauna sessions without worrying about the toll it might take on your hair.
Research by de Boer et al. (2011) highlights that protecting hair from extreme heat, such as that experienced in saunas, is crucial to preventing long-term damage and maintaining hair health.
Check out our detailed guide for your complete sauna outfit
What Are Sauna Hats Traditionally Made Of?
Wool Felt
When it comes to sauna hats, wool felt is the most common material. Wool felt is renowned for its insulating properties, which make it perfect for sauna use. It effectively keeps the heat out while being resistant to dirt, moisture, and odor. This durability ensures that your sauna hat will last through many sessions without losing its effectiveness.
Linen and Other Materials
Besides wool, some sauna hats are made from linen, another popular choice due to its eco-friendly nature and skin-friendly properties. Linen is breathable, absorbs moisture efficiently, and has natural antibacterial qualities. Although less common, other materials like alpaca wool are also used for their softness and comfort, offering a luxurious alternative to traditional wool felt.
How to Use a Sauna Hat
1. Pre-Soaking the Hat
To maximize the cooling effect of your sauna hat, soak it in cool water before you enter the sauna. After soaking, gently wring out the excess water and place the hat on your head, making sure it covers the top of your ears. This simple step enhances the hat’s ability to protect your head from the heat, making your sauna experience even more enjoyable.
2. Maintenance and Care
Taking care of your sauna hat is crucial to ensure it lasts. Most sauna hats made from wool felt should be hand washed with a mild detergent suitable for wool products. Avoid machine washing, as it can damage the hat’s fibers. After washing, air dry the hat or rinse it in lukewarm water to keep it fresh for your next sauna session.
What Do Sauna Hats Do? Additional Benefits of Wearing a Sauna Hat
1. Regulating Body Temperature
One of the lesser-known benefits of wearing a sauna hat is its ability to help regulate your body temperature. By keeping your head cool, the hat allows your body to maintain a comfortable balance between warmth and coolness. This regulation means you can enjoy longer sauna sessions without feeling overheated or needing to take frequent breaks.
2. Absorbing Sweat
During a sauna session, sweating is inevitable. A sauna hat absorbs sweat from your head, preventing it from dripping down your face and neck. This can be particularly helpful if you’re engaging in a sauna workout or simply trying to relax without constantly wiping sweat away.
So, Should You Use a Sauna Hat?
If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable or overheated in a sauna, a sauna hat might be just what you need. These simple accessories offer practical benefits like heat protection, longer sauna sessions, and hair preservation.
Whether you’re a seasoned sauna enthusiast or just getting started, adding a sauna hat to your routine can enhance your experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable. Plus, with so many styles and materials to choose from, you can find a sauna hat that suits your needs and personal style.
Next time you head to the sauna, don’t forget to bring your sauna hat. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your time in the heat.
FAQ: Sauna Hats
1. What are sauna hats for?
- Protect your head: They shield your scalp, hair, and ears from the extreme heat.
- Preserve hair moisture: They prevent your hair from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Regulate body temperature: Sauna hats help keep your head cool, so you can stay in the sauna longer without feeling too hot.
2. Should I wear a sauna cap in the sauna?
Yes, wearing a sauna cap (or sauna hat) is a good idea, especially if you spend a lot of time in the sauna. A sauna cap will keep your head cool, protect your hair, and help you stay comfortable during your sauna session. It’s a simple accessory that can make a big difference.
References:
- Sandell, R. & Davies, A. (2023). Thermal insulation properties of sauna hats.
- de Boer, E. M., Jansen, P. M., van der Meer, S., & Lokerse, H. (2011). The impact of sauna on hair: A study on hair protection. Dermatology, 222(1), 17-21.
- Laukkanen, T., Kunutsor, S., Kauhanen, J., & Laukkanen, J. A. (2018). Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in middle-aged Finnish men. Age and Ageing, 47(3), 329-333.
