Red cheeks after sitting in the steam room are common, but for those with sensitive skin, the redness can be intense and long-lasting. Redness during sauna is normal and caused by the dilation of superficial blood vessels in the face and increased circulation as the body tries to reduce its temperature. However, for example, in couperose-prone skin the walls of these superficial vessels are weakened and don’t return to their normal state as quickly after being dilated by heat. In addition to the cosmetic aspect of pronounced redness, sensitive skin may also feel hot and tight after sauna.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a skin-soothing, moisturizing, and redness-reducing ingredient. CBD works together with proteins located on the skin’s surface to effectively and quickly lessen sauna-induced redness while also soothing the sensation of heat and nourishing the skin deeply. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD also helps calm redness caused by inflammation in acne- or rosacea-prone skin.
A fascinating mechanism lies behind CBD’s redness-reducing effect after sauna
A receptor called TRPV1 plays an important role in the body’s temperature regulation. TRPV1 is a protein found in sensory nerve cells, including those present in the skin, and it reacts to heat. When activated, it initiates a thermoregulation process that keeps the body’s temperature safe and prevents overheating. This leads to increased blood circulation, skin flushing, and sweating.
When absorbed into the skin, cannabidiol can bind to TRPV1 receptors and activate them briefly. This momentary activation causes the receptor to become “numbed” or desensitized, meaning it no longer reacts as strongly to heat stimuli such as sauna. This weakened response results in a milder thermoregulatory reaction and therefore less facial redness.
Glow and hydration after sauna with Blank& products
Blank& products make post-sauna skincare effortless and effective. After the sauna, the skin is especially receptive to products, so it’s best to treat it with hydrating and soothing ingredients. A suitable post-sauna routine starts with the Veya facial mist, whose humectants moisturize the skin and give it a beautiful glow. On top of Veya, you can apply the Evie or Amio facial oil to lock in moisture and deeply nourish the skin. The CBD extract in all products soothes the skin and reduces redness, while the aromatherapeutic effects of essential oils enhance the sauna’s relaxing benefits.
In our online store, you’ll find perfect bundles for sauna lovers — an ideal gift, for example, for Christmas!
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