An infrared sauna is a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light, which is absorbed by the skin and heats the body directly. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around you, infrared saunas heat your body without significantly raising the air temperature.

Infrared saunas offer several health benefits, including detoxification, relaxation, improved circulation, pain relief, weight loss, enhanced skin health, and improved cardiovascular function. They may also help with stress reduction, better sleep, and muscle recovery.

The main difference is in the heating method. Traditional saunas heat the air to high temperatures (usually between 65°C to 90°C), which in turn heats your body. Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly, operating at lower temperatures (typically between 43°C to 65°C) while still offering similar or even enhanced health benefits.

Lower Operating Temperatures 

• Comfort: Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures (typically 43°C to 65°C) compared to traditional saunas, which can reach 65°C to 90°C. This makes infrared saunas more comfortable for those who find the high heat of traditional saunas overwhelming or difficult to tolerate.
• Gradual Heating: Infrared saunas heat your body directly using infrared light, so you experience a gentle, warming sensation rather than the intense blast of hot air found in traditional saunas.

Energy Efficiency

• Lower Energy Consumption: Because infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures and heat up more quickly, they generally use less energy than traditional saunas. This can lead to lower electricity costs and a more environmentally friendly operation.
• Quicker Warm-Up Time: Infrared saunas typically require less time to reach optimal operating temperature, meaning you can start your session sooner.

Deeper Penetration of Heat

• Direct Heat: Infrared saunas use infrared light to penetrate the skin, heating the body directly from within. This deeper heat penetration can lead to more effective detoxification, improved circulation, and enhanced muscle and joint pain relief.
• Enhanced Detoxification: The deep penetration of infrared heat is thought to promote a more thorough detoxification process by stimulating sweating at a lower temperature, which may help eliminate more toxins from the body.

Improved Health Benefits

• Cardiovascular Health: Infrared saunas can provide cardiovascular benefits similar to moderate exercise, such as increased heart rate and improved circulation, all while sitting in a relaxing environment.
• Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery: Infrared heat is often recommended for pain relief, as it can help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve recovery after physical activity. It is particularly beneficial for those with chronic pain conditions or muscle soreness.

Customization and Control

• Adjustable Temperatures: Infrared saunas allow for more precise control of the temperature, enabling users to customize their experience according to their comfort level.
• Longer Sessions: Because the heat in an infrared sauna is less intense, users can generally stay inside for longer periods, which can enhance the overall health benefits.

Gentler on the Skin and Respiratory System

• Lower Humidity: Infrared saunas have lower humidity levels, which can be gentler on the respiratory system and more comfortable for those who find high humidity uncomfortable or stifling.
• Skin-Friendly: The lower temperatures are also less likely to dry out the skin compared to the higher temperatures and dry air of traditional saunas.

Accessibility and User Experience

• Ease of Use: Infrared saunas are generally easier to use, requiring less maintenance and offering a less intense experience, which can be more suitable for beginners or those with certain health conditions.
• Portability and Size: Infrared saunas are often available in smaller, more portable designs, making them easier to install in homes with limited space.

Quiet Operation

• Less Noise: Infrared saunas do not require steam or large heaters, leading to quieter operation compared to the hissing sounds of steam in traditional saunas.

In Summary

• Why Choose Infrared?: An infrared sauna might be the better choice if you prefer a more comfortable, lower-temperature sauna experience that offers deep heat penetration and a range of health benefits, all with greater energy efficiency and ease of use. It’s an ideal option for those who want the benefits of a sauna without the intense heat or who are looking for a more modern, user-friendly experience.

Infrared saunas are considered safe for most people when used appropriately. However, it’s important to stay hydrated, follow recommended session times, and consult a healthcare provider if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, are pregnant, or are on medications that affect your body’s response to heat.
Infrared heat also offers significant health benefits. For decades, it has been widely used in the medical field across the globe. Medical professionals, including physicians, surgeons, pain specialists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and massage therapists, have utilized infrared heat to assist patients with various health concerns. Infrared saunas have gained popularity in the health and wellness community, with their use by healthcare professionals increasing steadily each year.

Yes, infrared saunas can assist with weight loss by increasing heart rate and metabolic rate, similar to the effect of moderate exercise. While you may burn calories during a session, infrared saunas should be used as a complement to a healthy diet and exercise regimen rather than as a primary weight loss method.

Frequency of use depends on your health goals and tolerance. For general wellness, 2-3 sessions per week are recommended. For more specific benefits like pain relief or detoxification, you might use it more frequently. Always start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your body adapts.

Beginners should start with 10-15 minute sessions and gradually work up to 30minutes. It’s important to listen to your body and exit the sauna if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or uncomfortable.

You can wear light, loose-fitting clothing, a towel, or simply use the sauna with minimal clothing to allow the infrared heat to penetrate your skin more effectively. Many users prefer to wear a towel or swimsuit.

Infrared saunas promote detoxification by inducing sweating, which helps eliminate toxins from the body, including heavy metals and environmental chemicals. The deep heat from the infrared light penetrates the skin and encourages the body to release stored toxins.

Yes, infrared saunas can improve skin health by promoting increased blood circulation, opening pores, and encouraging deeper cleansing. This can lead to clearer skin, improved skin tone, and increased collagen production, which may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Some people may feel dizzy or lightheaded after using an infrared sauna due to dehydration or the body’s response to heat. It’s important to stay hydrated, take breaks if needed, and ensure you don’t overheat. If these symptoms persist, consult with a healthcare provider.

If you have a medical condition, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using an infrared sauna. Conditions such as cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, and certain skin conditions may require special precautions.

It is generally advised to avoid using infrared saunas during pregnancy due to the risks associated with raising your core body temperature. Always consult with your healthcare provider before using a sauna if you are pregnant.

Infrared saunas do emit some level of electromagnetic fields (EMFs), like any electronic device.

At Sauna Select, your safety is our top priority. Our infrared saunas are equipped with advanced technology designed to minimize EMF levels. EMFs, which are emitted by electronic devices, are a growing concern today. With our low EMF saunas, you can enjoy the benefits of infrared heat without the worry of high EMF exposure.

We take low EMF levels seriously. Our engineers meticulously design and rigorously test each sauna to ensure minimal EMF emissions. Sauna Select Saunas offer a safe and rejuvenating environment, allowing you to relax and refresh with peace of mind. Your health and well-being are at the heart of everything we do.

To prepare for an infrared sauna session, hydrate well beforehand, avoid heavy meals, and wear comfortable clothing or a towel. Set the sauna to your desired temperature and enter once it’s warmed up. Post-session, take a cool shower to rinse off sweat and toxins.

Regular maintenance includes wiping down the interior surfaces with a soft cloth after each use and cleaning the glass doors with a non-abrasive cleaner. Ensure the sauna is well-ventilated and occasionally inspect the heaters and electrical components for any signs of wear. See our Cleaning and Maintenance Guide for more information

Children can use infrared saunas, but sessions should be shorter and at lower temperatures. Always supervise children during use and consult with a paediatrician beforehand to ensure it’s safe based on the child’s health.

It’s generally not recommended to bring electronics into the sauna due to the high temperatures, which can damage devices. However, our saunas are equipped with built-in sound systems designed to withstand heat and can be used throughout your session. Sauna is a serene space so we recommend to shut off from the busy world of phones/tablets and enjoy the time to read or just relax

The ideal temperature for an infrared sauna session typically ranges between 43°C and 65°C, depending on your comfort level and goals. Beginners may prefer lower temperatures, gradually increasing as they become accustomed to the heat.

After your session, it’s important to cool down slowly, rehydrate with water or an electrolyte drink, and take a shower to rinse off sweat and toxins. Rest for a few minutes before resuming any physical activities.

It’s generally not recommended to use an infrared sauna while wet. Infrared saunas are designed to work best when your skin is dry, as the infrared heat directly heats your body without needing to warm the air around you, so being drenched in water will be counterproductive – it is best recommended to use the sauna prior to activities such as swimming or ice bath. Using the sauna while wet could also affect the efficiency of the heat absorption and potentially cause the heaters or electrical components to become exposed to excess moisture, which may cause issues. Excessive moisture absorption to the internal wood may also cause warping; in normal use it is advised to use a towel to rest on to minimise maintenance requirements. So it is best recommended to dry off before entering the sauna to ensure a safe and effective session.