A 2026 study from the University of Eastern Finland (on 51 healthy adults) found that 30 minutes in a dry sauna sent every type of immune cell rushing into the bloodstream, including key infection fighters such as neutrophils and lymphocytes. A similar surge in white blood cells happens during exercise, as the body responds to possible threats. Regular sauna use has previously been linked to a range of health benefits and the temporary immune boost identified in this study could help researchers understand some of the biological processes behind those benefits. Still, the researchers cautioned that the study measured only the immediate effects of one sauna session and more research is needed on whether repeated sauna bathing produces lasting changes in immune function.
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