What is an Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared lamps to emit infrared light and create heat. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas don't rely on steam to warm the air. Instead, the infrared light directly heats your body to produce a sweat. Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures than regular saunas, though the concentrated infrared heat can make them feel hotter.
How Infrared Saunas Work
Infrared lamps emit infrared light on the electromagnetic spectrum. This light is invisible to human eyes but we perceive it as heat. When infrared waves are absorbed by the skin, they cause a warming effect in tissues at the molecular level. This raises your core body temperature and induces sweating.
There are several types of infrared waves:
- Near-infrared - Heats surface skin
- Mid-infrared - Penetrates deeper into joints and muscles
- Far-infrared - Absorbed by water molecules and stimulates sweat
Infrared saunas commonly use far and mid-infrared lamps. The heat penetrates up to 1.5 inches beneath the skin. This stimulates sweat and provides deep muscle and joint warmth that can be therapeutic.
Benefits of Infrared Saunas
Sweating in an infrared sauna offers many touted benefits. Though more research is needed, current studies indicate infrared therapy may provide the following wellness perks:
Detoxification
Sweating helps remove toxins like heavy metals, BPA, and pesticides from the body. Infrared waves may stimulate the release of toxins stored in fat cells.
Relaxation
The warmth from infrared lamps promotes relaxation. Infrared therapy raises endorphins and may have stress-reducing effects.
Pain Relief
The heat of infrared saunas penetrates joints, muscles, and tissues to ease stiffness, inflammation, and soreness. Infrared may also reduce chronic low back pain and osteoarthritis.
Weight Loss
Sweating during infrared sessions burns calories. It also helps decrease bloating and water retention. Regular use stimulates metabolism for ongoing fat and weight loss.
Heart Health
Studies link infrared sauna use with improved blood pressure, circulation, and cholesterol levels. The sweat and heat stress from sessions may provide cardiovascular benefits.
Anti-Aging
Infrared light exposure increases collagen production to help reduce signs of skin aging. It also enhances skin cell renewal and blood flow for a healthy glow.
Improved Immunity
Frequent use of infrared saunas activates white blood cells that defend against germs, viruses, and other pathogens to prevent sickness.
Detoxification
Sweating helps remove toxins like heavy metals, BPA, and pesticides from the body. Infrared waves may stimulate the release of toxins stored in fat cells.
Is an Infrared Sauna Right for Me?
Infrared saunas offer many potential perks, but they aren't for everyone. You may want to avoid infrared therapy if you have any of the following:
- Pregnancy
- Cardiovascular conditions
- High blood pressure
- Heat sensitivity
- Silicone implants
- Pacemaker
- Sunburns
- Open wounds
- Severe diabetes
- Recent stroke
Check with your doctor before trying infrared saunas if you have any chronic health problems or take medications that may impair thermoregulation.
Safety Tips for Infrared Sauna Use
When using an infrared sauna, keep these precautions in mind:
- Hydrate before and after
- Start with short 5-15 minute sessions
- Cool down between sessions
- Don't use if under the influence of alcohol/drugs
- Stop if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell
Types of Infrared Saunas
There are a few different options when it comes to infrared sauna design:
Far Infrared Saunas
Emit the longest infrared waves that penetrate tissue deeply. Provide targeted heating that helps reduce pain.
Full Spectrum Infrared Saunas
Use a combination of near, mid, and far infrared lamps. Offer both deep tissue penetration and surface warming.
Portable Infrared Saunas
Small one or two person units with foldable designs. Easy to assemble and move around your home.
Traditional Saunas with Infrared Upgrade
Classic wood burning sauna with added infrared lamp panels. Provides the benefits of both traditional and infrared therapy.
Choosing an At Home Infrared Sauna
Looking to buy an infrared sauna for personal in-home use? Keep the following tips in mind:
Size
Pick a size that fits your available space and number of people using it. One or two person units work well for home use.
Construction
Look for units made with quality craftsmanship using solid wood rather than particle board. Canadian hemlock or red cedar are good options.
Heating Technology
Mid to far infrared lamps offer deeper tissue penetration. Carbon and ceramic emitters also evenly distribute safe infrared heat.
Control Panel
Digital control panels that adjust time and temperature settings are convenient. Look for timer options up to 60 minutes.
Comfort Features
Benches, backrests, built-in speakers, chromotherapy lights, and heat therapy zones all optimize relaxation.
Cost
Budget infrared saunas start around $1,000. Larger multi-person units with more features can cost upwards of $4,000-$5,000.
How to Get the Most from Infrared Sauna Therapy
Follow these tips to maximize the benefits from your infrared sauna sessions:
Gradually Increase Time
Begin with sessions of 10-15 minutes and slowly work up to 30-60 minutes per day as tolerated.
Preheat
Turn on the sauna 10-15 minutes prior to use so it's fully heated. A warm sauna provides deeper tissue penetration.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session to prevent dehydration.
Relax
Sit back and fully relax to benefit your mind and body. Meditate, practice deep breathing, or just zone out.
Use Consistently
Daily use provides better long term health results than occasional use.
Try Heat Cycling
Moving between the sauna and a cool shower increases circulation for added detox benefits.
Supplement Sauna Use
Pair sauna therapy with healthy eating, exercise, massage, and other wellness habits.
The Bottom Line on Infrared Saunas
Evidence shows infrared sauna use offers a drug-free way to help remove toxins, relieve pain, reduce stress, lose weight, and support heart health. Just be sure to stay hydrated, listen to your body, and get your doctor's okay if you have any health conditions.
Incorporating frequent infrared sauna sessions into your routine may enhance your overall wellbeing. An at home sauna provides convenience, privacy, and flexibility to experience all the benefits infrared heat therapy can provide.
FAQs
Are infrared saunas safe?
Infrared saunas are generally safe, but it's important to hydrate and not overdo session length when first starting out. Avoid use if pregnant, have cardiovascular conditions, or other health concerns unless cleared by a doctor.
How often should you use an infrared sauna?
It's recommended to use an infrared sauna several times a week, ideally daily, for 20-40 minutes per session. Consistency is key for ongoing health benefits.
Do infrared saunas help with weight loss?
Yes, regular infrared sauna use can aid weight loss efforts by burning calories, boosting metabolism, and reducing bloating and water retention. However, you still need a healthy diet for meaningful fat loss.
What's the difference between infrared and traditional saunas?
Infrared saunas use infrared lamps that directly heat the body rather than warming the surrounding air. Lower temperatures allow longer session times compared to hotter traditional saunas.
How much do home infrared saunas cost?
Personal infrared saunas for 1-2 people typically range from $1,000-$5,000. Price varies based on size, construction quality, features, and heating technology.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment