Are you considering trying an infrared sauna but aren’t sure what the benefits are? Maybe you are torn between a traditional and infrared sauna and want to know more? Well, you have come to the right place!
Infrared saunas are known for their lower temperatures, which can help the heat penetrate more deeply into your skin, improving your sleep and overall well-being. Keep reading to learn more about other infrared sauna benefits and see if it’s an option for you!
What Is An Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna uses infrared lamps, which use electromagnetic radiation, to warm your body directly. Unlike traditional saunas, these use infrared panels instead of conventional heat. They heat your body before heating the air, which allows them to run at a lower temperature.
Manufacturers claim that in infrared saunas, 20% of the heat goes into the air and 80% into your body, allowing you to feel the benefits of an infrared sauna more than a traditional one.
What Should I Do Before Using An Infrared Sauna?
Before you go to an infrared sauna, we recommend following the guidelines below. These will help you prepare for your sauna experience, whether at home or at your local spa.
- Drink water to remain hydrated – you can check if you are allowed to bring water into the sauna, too
- Select the right temperature – for beginners, we recommend starting at 100 degrees Fahrenheit and working up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit
- Start with ten to fifteen minutes in the sauna, adding time to each session until you reach twenty to thirty minutes. You can make use of the sauna in the timer
- Choose comfortable clothing – bathing suits are often required in public saunas
Are Infrared Saunas Safe? mayoclinic.org
What Are The Benefits Of Using An Infrared Sauna?
Before we dive into the benefits, it is important to note that there aren’t many studies that examine infrared saunas. All of the information is taken from small studies and reviews, meaning there is a lack of solid evidence to show the benefits of infrared saunas. That doesn’t mean these benefits can’t be felt; there just is not enough evidence currently!
The benefits listed below have been linked to using an infrared sauna:
- Improved circulation
- Tighter and clearer skin
- Relief from joint pain, like arthritis
- Relief from sore muscles
- Weight loss
- Detoxification
- Relaxation
- Better sleep
- Improved symptoms for those with chronic fatigue
- Reducing blood pressure
- Enhancing recovery from strength-training exercises
Like a traditional sauna, an infrared sauna can be a relaxing environment. The lower temperature makes them more comfortable for some people, allowing you to stay in the sauna longer and soak up the benefits.
What Are The Negative Effects Of An Infrared Sauna?
There are no reports of negative effects of using an infrared sauna, which is different from the warnings you see before using a traditional sauna. These include the possibility of dehydration, overheating, and interfering with any medication.
As you would with traditional saunas, infrared saunas should be avoided if you have heart disease, are pregnant, or have taken drugs or alcohol. You should speak to your doctor if you have any concerns before using a sauna to check they suit you.
Is An Infrared Sauna Better Than A Traditional Sauna?
In some ways, an infrared sauna can be better than a traditional one. The lower temperature allows you to stay in the sauna for longer, providing better value for money and more time to relax. Lower temperatures can also reduce the risk of dehydration, but we still advise against entering a sauna if you are dehydrated.
As more of the heat is absorbed by your body in an infrared sauna, you can also feel the benefits quickly. This means your muscles will start loosening and relaxing quicker, aiding muscle recovery, especially after an intense gym session. You can also experience pain relief at a faster rate, which is welcome news for anyone who loves a quick sauna break.
The deep penetrating heat also provides a more intense sweat, which can help with detoxing compared to a traditional sauna. You will start to sweat early into your sauna session, increasing in intensity the longer you are in there. For some, this is the sign of a good sauna experience!
Final Thoughts
An infrared sauna can offer some pretty sweet benefits, including muscle recovery and joint pain relief. The lower heat can make the sauna more comfortable while still penetrating your body to help you relax. While many more benefits have yet to be proven, as studies continue, we can expect to see the list of infrared sauna benefits grow!