Using a Sensor in the Sauna

Your Stelo biosensor can handle some heat and moisture exposure, but there are limits to consider for optimal performance and safety.

Water resistance

Your Stelo biosensor is water-resistant for:

• Depth: Up to 3 feet (1 meter)
• Duration: Up to 30 minutes
• Activities: Showering, bathing, swimming

Heat exposure guidelines

Moderate heat (safe)
Stelo can handle:

• Normal showering and bathing
• Typical outdoor temperatures
• Light sauna use (under 15 minutes, moderate temperature)

Extreme heat (use caution)
Be careful with:

• Extended sauna sessions
• Very hot tubs
• Steam rooms
• Direct exposure to heating elements

Saunas and hot tubs

Short sessions
Brief sauna or hot tub sessions (10-15 minutes) at moderate temperatures are typically fine for most users.

Monitor your biosensor
During and after heat exposure:

• Check that Stelo remains securely adhered
• Heat and moisture can loosen adhesive
• Consider applying a Performance Cover before heat exposure

Accuracy considerations
Extreme heat may temporarily affect:

• Sensor readings (heat changes blood flow and interstitial fluid dynamics)
• Adhesive strength
• Your actual glucose levels (heat stress can impact glucose)

Best practices for heat exposure

Before entering

• Make sure your sensor is securely attached
• Consider using a Performance Cover for extra adhesion
• Check that edges aren't already lifting

During heat exposure

• Limit time in extreme heat
• Stay hydrated
• Monitor how you feel

After heat exposure

• Check sensor adhesion
• Pat the sensor dry gently
• Allow your body temperature to normalize before interpreting readings

When to avoid heat exposure

Remove your sensor or avoid extreme heat if:

• The adhesive is already compromised
• You have skin irritation under or around the sensor
• The manufacturer recommends a specific temperature limit

Temperature limits

Storage temperature for unused sensors: 36°F to 86°F (2°C to 30°C)

Operating temperature while wearing: The sensor is designed for typical body temperature ranges, but prolonged exposure to environments above 113°F (45°C) may affect performance.

If your sensor becomes loose

If heat exposure loosens your sensor adhesive:

• Dry the area thoroughly
• Apply a Performance Cover or medical tape
• If the sensor has come completely off, it cannot be reapplied—contact support for a replacement

Reading accuracy in extreme conditions

Be aware that readings during and immediately after heat exposure might show:

• Temporary spikes or drops
• Slight delays in readings
• Variations due to changes in blood flow and interstitial fluid

These are often physiological responses to heat rather than sensor malfunction.

Alternative activities

If you frequently use saunas or hot tubs, consider:

• Timing your sensor applications around planned heat exposure
• Using additional adhesive support
• Monitoring patterns to see how heat affects your personal glucose response

For specific questions about your sensor's heat tolerance or if you experience issues after heat exposure, contact our support team.