In the world of health & wellness, the infrared sauna is creating a lot of buzz, offering a unique and potentially more comfortable alternative to traditional saunas. From supporting mental relaxation to physical recovery, infrared saunas are gaining popularity as a go-to for holistic health. But what exactly is an infrared sauna, and how can it benefit you?
What is an Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna uses infrared light to create heat, rather than heating the air around you, as in traditional saunas. This type of heat penetrates your skin more deeply, warming your body directly without the stifling temperature of conventional saunas. The bench, walls and fixtures are not hot to the touch. Infrared saunas typically operate at a much lower temperature—between 120°F and 150°F—compared to traditional saunas, which can reach up to 195°F. Infrared heat is a natural, safe energy that all objects, including our bodies, give and receive. It's so gentle that hospitals use it to warm newborns. When a mother rubs her baby’s stomach, it’s the infrared warmth from her hand that soothes.
Infrared Saunas Versus Traditional and Steam Saunas
The main difference between infrared saunas and traditional saunas is how they use heat. Traditional saunas use a single heater that is heating the air and this hot air heats the user. In contrast, infrared saunas use advanced therapy to promote heat generation in the body with only a small percentage of the heat heating the air. This results in a deeper sweat and at a lower ambient air temperature. In fact, infrared saunas usually operate between 115° – 135°F, while traditional saunas can get up to 195°F.
You will get all of the relaxation benefits of a traditional infrared sauna along with the increased health benefits that infrared offers all at a much more comfortable temperature. Infrared saunas are also dry saunas and many users find this makes for a more comfortable sauna session.
Key Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy
• Detoxification
Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating toxins. Infrared saunas promote a deep, detoxifying sweat at a cellular level, assisting the body in expelling heavy metals, environmental pollutants, and other toxins.
• Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery
The penetrating heat of infrared rays can help reduce inflammation and stiffness in joints and muscles, promoting blood flow and encouraging faster healing. This makes it especially popular among athletes and those with chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis.
• Stress Relief and Improved Mood
Spending time in an infrared sauna can release endorphins, the body’s natural "feel-good" hormones. The calming heat also promotes relaxation, helping to lower cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone, leading to an improved sense of well-being.
• Skin Health
Infrared heat therapy increases circulation, which can improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Regular sauna sessions may promote a clearer complexion, reduce acne, and improve the appearance of scars and other skin imperfections.
• Enhanced Circulation and Cardiovascular Health
Infrared sauna sessions increase heart rate, mimicking the effects of moderate exercise. Studies have shown that regular use can help lower blood pressure and improve circulation, benefiting cardiovascular health.
• Weight Loss Support
While it’s not a substitute for exercise, infrared saunas can aid in weight management. The elevated body temperature requires energy to cool down, slightly boosting calorie burn. Some research indicates that a half-hour session may help burn up to 600 calories, though results vary based on individual factors.
How to Use an Infrared Sauna Safely
For most people, using an infrared sauna 2–4 times per week for 20–30 minutes is ideal. Always stay hydrated before, during, and after each session. Starting with shorter sessions, especially if you’re new to sauna use, allows your body to adapt to the infrared heat. And if you’re pregnant, have cardiovascular concerns, or have a chronic health condition, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating sauna use into your routine.
