The Gross Spa Mistake That’s Putting You at Risk of Infection
There’s nothing better than a spa day — sweating out your toxins in the steam room, melting all your stress away with a massage and indulging in some much-needed "me time."
But, if you’re not careful, a day of pampered R&R could end with a trip to the doctor’s office.
Rosanne Joseph-Anthony, the founder and clinical director of Healthium Clinics, recently shared some common mistakes people make at the spa — and one particularly nasty habit that could land you in the bad kind of hot water.
Not Wearing Flip-Flops in Common Areas
The biggest boo-boo? "Don’t get risk going barefoot in public areas," Joseph-Anthony told UK e-commerce site Wowcher. "Pools, spas and saunas can harbor athlete’s foot and fungal infections."
While it might be tempting — especially when the floors are heated — it’s just too much of a health hazard.
Footwear is especially important if you already have a foot condition, as being barefoot can exacerbate it and hard surfaces can cause plantar fasciitis — a condition that creates a painful sensation around the bottom of the foot near the heel.
Don’t Spend Too Long in the Sauna
You might feel motivated to really push your limits in the sauna to try to really reap all of those cardiovascular benefits — but doing so could be dangerous.
"Don’t exceed more than 20 minutes in the sauna," she said.
Traditional saunas typically have temperatures that range between 150°F to 195°F, and overstaying your welcome can lead to dizziness, dehydration, and — in the most extreme cases — a deadly heat stroke.
If you’re new to sauna bathing, Joseph-Anthony recommends starting at a lower temperature and taking regular breaks.
Don’t Ignore Dizziness
If you suddenly feel light-headed or overheated in a sauna, steam room, or even during a treatment, don’t try to tough it out.
"Step out immediately and sit down if you start feeling unwell," she said.
Ignoring these warning signs could lead to fainting or worse.
Additional Tips
- Always dry your feet thoroughly and wear flip-flops where necessary.
- Individuals with diabetes should be particularly cautious about walking barefoot due to the risk of undetected cuts or infections.
- If you’re pregnant, have low blood pressure, or have heart problems, it’s best to avoid the sauna and consult with your doctor before using a sauna.
- Stay hydrated, especially if you’re doing a lot of sweating.
- Aim for two to three liters of water per day at a spa, and replenish electrolytes with coconut water or a balanced sports drink.
Conclusion
A day at the spa can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks involved. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your spa day while minimizing the risk of infection and injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some common mistakes people make at the spa?
A: Not wearing flip-flops in common areas, spending too long in the sauna, ignoring dizziness, and not communicating with the therapist.
Q: What are some health risks associated with going barefoot in public areas?
A: Athlete’s foot and fungal infections.
Q: How long should I spend in the sauna?
A: No more than 20 minutes.
Q: What should I do if I start feeling unwell in a sauna or steam room?
A: Step out immediately and sit down.
