What Is An Infrared Sauna? 

Are you unsure what an infrared sauna is? Maybe you have been considering using an infrared sauna and want to know more? Finding out about infrared saunas can be tricky, with conflicting information leaving you unsure where to turn. 

Well, that is where we come in to help! We have teamed up with our friends at TH7 Body Labs to tell you everything you need to know about infrared saunas. Keep reading to learn more. 

What Is An Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna uses infrared as its heat source. It uses infrared lamps to warm your body directly. These lamps, which use electromagnetic radiation, heat your body before heating the sauna’s air, helping the heat penetrate your body at a deeper level, and providing you with an intense sauna experience. 

This allows infrared saunas to run at a lower temperature, making them more comfortable. An infrared sauna can run at temperatures between 100 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This keeps them hot but in a more manageable way, especially if you have never used a sauna before. 

Manufacturers of infrared saunas claim that only 20% of the heat produced enters the air, meaning that 80% of the heat enters your body. Thus, you can feel the benefits more than you would with a traditional sauna. 

How Do You Use An Infrared Sauna?

You can use an infrared sauna the same way you would a traditional sauna. Infrared saunas can be found at spas, wellness centres, gyms, and even in some people’s homes now! There are some guidelines that we recommend you follow, especially if you are new to saunas. 

When using a sauna in public, please follow their guidelines, especially clothing and timings. 

Hydrate Before 

Before using a sauna, make sure you are hydrated. We recommend drinking a glass of water before heading into the sauna. The heat can dehydrate, so you can take a bottle of water into the sauna to keep you hydrated while you enjoy the heat. 

Should you feel dehydrated, lightheaded, or dizzy, leave the sauna immediately and drink some water to help rehydrate you. 

Choose The Right Temperature 

You should be able to adjust the temperature in an infrared sauna. We recommend starting at the lower temperatures if you are new, around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. You can increase the temperature the more you use the sauna, working up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Select Your Time 

We recommend starting with ten to fifteen minutes in an infrared sauna for beginners. This allows you to get used to the heat without becoming overwhelmed. The more you use a sauna, the longer you can spend in it, working up to twenty to thirty minutes per session. 

Choose Your Clothing 

In public saunas, bathing suits are recommended. These will leave you with plenty of exposed skin to feel the sauna’s benefits while keeping you comfortable. In private saunas, some prefer a towel or nothing at all! You will need to check the clothing guidelines before entering a public sauna. 

What Are The Benefits Of Infrared Saunas?

There are several benefits associated with using infrared saunas. Currently, there aren’t many studies examining infrared saunas; most of the information comes from small studies and reviews.

The lack of solid evidence compared to traditional can be off-putting, but it doesn’t mean you won’t feel any benefits from spending time sweating in an infrared sauna. 

We have listed the benefits below: 

• Improved circulation
• Tighter and clearer skin
• Relief from chronic pain, like arthritis 
• Improved immunity
• Weight loss
• Detoxification
• Relaxation
• Better sleep
• Improved symptoms for those with chronic fatigue 
• Reducing blood pressure 
• Enhancing recovery from strength-training exercises, a big plus point if you have a structured workout plan and getting support from an accredited personal trainer.

Just like traditional saunas, infrared saunas can be relaxing. The lower temperature can make them more comfortable, allowing users to stay longer and reap the benefits. 

Are There Any Negatives Of Infrared Saunas?

There are no reports of negative effects from using an infrared sauna. However, as we see with traditional saunas, there is the possibility of overheating, dehydration, and the sauna interfering with medication. 

Infrared saunas should be avoided if you are pregnant, have consumed alcohol or drugs, and have heart disease. You should always speak to your doctor before entering a sauna if you have any concerns. 

Final Thoughts 

Infrared saunas can operate at a lower temperature, making them more comfortable for many people. They allow the heat to penetrate deeper, allowing you to enjoy the benefits while you soak up the heat. Check out the best gyms near you and research whether they have an infrared sauna, for example our guide’s for Derby’s best gyms or the best gyms in Glasgow.