What is the difference between a traditional and an infrared sauna?

Unlike a traditional sauna, infrared saunas don’t heat the air around you. Instead, they use infrared lamps (that use electromagnetic radiation) to warm your body directly. An infrared sauna can operate at a lower temperature (usually between 120˚F and 140˚F) than a traditional sauna, which is typically between 150˚F and 180˚F. Supporters of infrared saunas say the heat penetrates more deeply than warmed air. This allows you to experience a more intense sweat at a lower temperature.

What are the supposed benefits of using an infrared sauna?

  • Better sleep
  • Relaxation
  • Detoxification
  • Weight loss
  • Relief from sore muscles
  • Relief from joint pain such as arthritis
  • Clear and tighter skin
  • Improved circulation
  • Help for people with chronic fatigue syndrome

How do you use an infrared sauna?

  • Drink water: Make sure you’re hydrated before going into an infrared sauna. Drink a glass of water before your session. You can also bring water into the sauna, especially if you’re sensitive to higher heats.
  • Choose the temperature: The average temperature for an infrared sauna ranges from 100˚F to 150˚F, with beginners starting out at the lower end and more experienced users at the higher end. If this is your first time, start with 100˚F. You may want to stay at this temperature for a few sessions. You can always increase the temperature each session until you reach 150˚F.
  • Clothing: How you dress is your choice. Some people will wear bathing suits, while others prefer to go in naked.
  • What you can do while in the sauna: Relax, read, meditate, listen to music, or visit with friends. Just don’t go to sleep.
  • After the session is over: When your session is done, it’s suggested that you take your time and let your body cool down. Once cooled down, feel free to take a shower or bath. Just make sure you are drinking plenty of water.
  • Number of sessions per week: We recommend using the sauna three to four days per week. If you are healthy and tolerate the four days, you can use the sauna daily.

What should you know before you try an infrared sauna?

  • Avoid using an infrared sauna if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
  • If you feel ill or have a fever, it’s best to wait to use the sauna until you’re feeling better.
  • Using an infrared sauna will cause you to sweat a lot, so you may feel lightheaded when you stand up. If this happens, make sure you get up slowly and sit down once you leave the sauna. Drink water immediately after finishing your session and wait for your body to cool down before doing anything else.
  • In extreme cases, some people may experience overheating (heat stroke and heat exhaustion) or dehydration.
Infrared Sauna