What is halotherapy?

Halotherapy is a treatment that is carried out in specially designed rooms in which a halogenerator disperses microparticles of sodium chloride of pharmaceutical quality. So, what to expect in halotherapy? By inhaling the saline air that is generated, the respiratory tract is cleansed and the regenerative processes in the skin are promoted, taking advantage of the anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties of salt.

This natural therapy has its origins in the natural salt caves of Eastern Europe, but advances in technology have allowed us to replicate it in controlled environments. Read on to find out more about salt saunas and the health benefits of a halotherapy experience.

Breathing benefits of halotherapy

A halotherapy session is based on the inhalation of dry salt, an element that has very positive effects on the respiratory system, as it can be very positive for some respiratory complications.

• It dissolves and eliminates mucus, as the saline microparticles thin the mucus, facilitating its expulsion by the respiratory cilia and freeing the nasal passages and bronchi.
• The anti-inflammatory action of salt helps to reduce airway swelling in people with asthma or bronchitis.
• Halotherapy for allergies is also positive, as it can improve symptoms of rhinitis, seasonal allergies and sinusitis because it cleans pollutants and viral or bacterial agents.
• Patients with problems such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis or chronic bronchitis feel how their symptoms are reduced after their breathing halotherapy sessions.

Effects on skin and skin wellbeing

Controlled exposure to salt microparticles also has effects on the epidermis, making halotherapy for the skin a highly sought-after treatment for its many benefits.

• The body drains water to the skin surface to dilute the salt, leaving the skin more turgid, soft and hydrated after the session.
• The anti-inflammatory properties of salt alleviate the symptoms of problems such as dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema, reducing itching, redness and swelling.
• Salt also helps to eliminate pathogens from the skin, which makes it a great support for the recovery of infectious lesions and also avoids complications with acne or possible wounds.
• Sodium chloride helps to restore the skin’s acid balance, which strengthens its barrier function and reduces skin sensitivity and breakouts.
• It also increases the elasticity and firmness of the skin, promoting cell renewal and the elimination of wrinkles.

Halotherapy as an anti-stress treatment: total disconnection

Among the benefits of halotherapy is also the fact that it creates a tranquil environment, free from external stimuli, which makes halotherapy for stress an excellent way to achieve an optimal level of relaxation.

Thanks to the meditative atmosphere in salt saunas and deep breathing in salty air, it is possible to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and reduce cortisol.

Immersion in a space free of electronic devices, with dim lighting and relaxing music, combined with direct exposure to the micro-particles of salt, means that the degree of mental relaxation that can be achieved is maximised.

This is helped by the fact that inhalation facilitates slower, deeper breathing, which triggers a great sense of calm, improves mood, reduces fatigue and promotes a good night’s rest.

What does a typical halotherapy session look like?

We’ve already given you some details about how halotherapy works, but we’ve still put together a brief guide that will give you a much better understanding.

1. It is advisable to arrive around 15 minutes early, well hydrated and having had a light meal, and make yourself comfortable in the halotherapy area.
2. A halogenerator grinds pharmaceutical salt into micro-particles, which begin to disperse in the air of the room.
3. During the halotherapy session, which lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, you breathe normally, keeping your mind away from the stimuli and problems of the everyday world.
4. Once the halotherapy experience is over, you may experience a slight productive cough, which is temporary, as well as feeling that you are breathing much better and enjoying deep relaxation.

Contraindications and recommendations

This treatment is generally well tolerated by most people, but there are some contraindications to halotherapy that you should be aware of before starting it.

• It is not advisable to attend if you are ill or have a fever to avoid stress and possible contagion.
• Dehydration and the salty environment can aggravate the sensations of people with hypertension, renal or cardiovascular disease.
• It is not recommended for people with open wounds or active tuberculosis, as there is a risk of irritation or spread of germs.
• Nor for people with extremely sensitive skin or certain dermatological problems, as the salt can dry out or irritate in cases of severe eczema or acute dermatitis.

In all these cases, it is best to consult a health professional before undergoing a halotherapy experience.

Salt saunas and salt cabins for halotherapy

The saunas or salt cabins that we offer at Fluidra are air-conditioned spaces that include one or more walls covered with Himalayan salt bricks, which create the perfect environment for halotherapy.

Inside, temperatures of between 48°C and 75°C are reached, with a controlled relative humidity of between 20% and 50%, which favours the natural ionisation of the salt. On the other hand, the activated heat energises the negative ions in the salt, which further enhances the benefits of halotherapy on both a respiratory and immune level.

At Fluidra we are experts in this type of equipment, which is why we have salt cabins, backlit salt walls, state-of-the-art halogenerators and all the elements you need to offer a high quality halotherapy service in your wellness centre. In addition, we offer total aesthetic and functional customisation to adapt each solution to the style and needs of your space. Consult our experts, they will tell you everything you need to know about this option that is increasingly in demand by your customers.