We've all been there—one drink turns into a few too many, and the next morning, you're paying the price. The dreaded hangover strikes with a pounding headache, nausea, and the kind of fatigue that makes you question every decision from the night before.
So, what now? Can a sauna session be the ultimate hangover cure? Can you really sweat out alcohol and feel refreshed again? Let’s dive in and find out!
Does Sweating Out Alcohol Help a Hangover?
The idea of “sweating out” alcohol is a popular one, but let’s clear up a common misconception: sweating does not directly remove alcohol from your body. Your liver does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to breaking down alcohol, and only a tiny fraction—about 2-5%—leaves your body through sweat, breath, and urine.
That said, while sweating won’t magically erase last night’s cocktails, a steam sauna can still help with hangover symptoms in a few key ways:
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Improved circulation – A sauna increases blood flow, which can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to your body as it recovers.
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Endorphin boost – The heat stimulates the release of feel-good hormones, improving your mood.
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Sweating out toxins – While you won’t sweat out alcohol itself, you will eliminate other waste products and excess salts, which may help you feel better.
So, while a sauna won’t be a magical detox machine, it can play a role in your recovery process.
Can Sweating Get Rid of Alcohol?
Short answer: Not really.
Your body metabolises alcohol primarily through the liver. On average, your liver processes one standard drink per hour. No amount of sweating, exercising, or cold showers will speed that up.
However, a steam sauna at around 43°C can still make you feel better by promoting relaxation and hydration—two things your body desperately needs after a night out.
Is It Good to Use a Sauna When Hungover?
A sauna can be a great way to ease hangover symptoms, but only if you do it safely. Here’s what you need to know:
✅ Hydrate first! – Alcohol dehydrates you, and sweating in a sauna will too. Drink plenty of water (or an electrolyte-rich drink) before stepping in. ✅ Take it easy. – Start with shorter sessions of 10-15 minutes instead of going full steam ahead (literally). ✅ Listen to your body. – If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded, step out immediately. ✅ Cool down gradually. – Avoid shocking your system with an ice bath—opt for a lukewarm shower instead.
When used correctly, a sauna can help you relax, rehydrate, and rejuvenate after a rough night out. But if you’re severely dehydrated, it’s best to wait until you’ve properly replenished your fluids before jumping in.
Is the Sauna Good After a Day of Drinking?
Absolutely! A sauna session after a day (or night) of drinking can be a great way to wind down and help your body bounce back.
Here’s why a sauna post-drinking is beneficial:
🔥 Relieves muscle tension – Alcohol can leave you feeling sluggish and sore, and the heat from a steam sauna helps loosen tight muscles. 💤 Promotes better sleep – A sauna session can improve sleep quality by triggering the release of melatonin and promoting relaxation. 💦 Encourages hydration – After sweating it out, you’ll naturally want to drink more water, helping your body rehydrate faster.
However, timing is key. If you’re still intoxicated, avoid the sauna—it can increase the risk of dehydration and overheating. Wait until the next morning when your body has had time to metabolise the alcohol.
