Far Infrared Sauna Therapy: A Complete Guide & FAQ

Far infrared sauna therapy takes a traditional sauna to the next level – relaxation and a wealth of health and wellness benefits. It’s easy to appreciate the healthy, healing heat that this unique, modern-day treatment provides. As infrared saunas become more and more popular, you can enjoy their benefits at health clubs, spas, and gyms.

This guide will answer all your questions about infrared saunas, including what they are, why people love them, side effects, how to prepare, and more!

What is a far infrared sauna therapy?

Far infrared saunas are a unique spa treatment that uses modern-day technology to enable your body to detox, sweat, and relieve muscle tension.

While a traditional sauna heats the air around you to jumpstart your body’s perspiration, infrared saunas use infrared waves to directly heat your body from within. Infrared heat therapy directly penetrates the cellular level of your body to raise your core body temperature. As your body temperature rises, detoxification happens as you sweat from internal processes. 

Infrared light comes from Far Infrared Radiation, a wavelength from the light that doesn’t contain any UV rays. Sunlighten infrared saunas utilize safe parts of sunlight to raise your body’s heat. As this happens, your heart rate increases as your circulation improves. This leads to several significant benefits. 

Far Infrared Sauna Benefits

According to various clinical studies and those who use infrared sauna therapy, there are a number of advantages. Since infrared heat saunas cause the body to heat and start sweating from within, you can experience relaxation and wellness benefits.

Anti-Aging

Because of the heavy release of sweat and toxins, infrared sauna therapy leads to great things for anti-aging! As bacteria and dead skin on the top layer of your skin are removed, the skin can become smoother and softer. Infrared rays also help clear up acne, enhance elasticity for reduced wrinkles, and improve skin tone. 

Weight Loss

During a sauna treatment, your heart rate increases which tricks your body into thinking it’s participating in cardio exercise. The systems in the body that are connected to sweating require a lot of your body’s energy. So, you get to rest as you burn calories. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Pain Relief

Many people who experience pain due to exercise or an injury find great relief during a far infrared sauna treatment. As your blood vessels expand and circulation improves, muscle tension decreases. Additionally, research shows that infrared rays also reduce the effects of arthritis by easing pain and stiffness. 

Detoxification

As you relax in an infrared sauna, the rays go deep into the skin to raise your body’s temperature and heart rate and lead to a deep sweat. As you sweat, toxins are released. Say goodbye to a build-up of sodium, cholesterol, nicotine, and heavy metals! And, naturally, a clearer body helps lead to a clearer mind.

Relaxation and Better Sleep

Because detoxification can result in a clearer mind and body, your body can relax much more easily than when it’s bursting with toxins. As you begin to feel an overall calmness, your body rests, and your body can experience better sleep.

Who (Maybe) Shouldn’t Use Far Infrared Saunas

While infrared sauna therapy is excellent for many people, there are some cases where it may be best to take advantage of other spa treatments. 

Here are some things to consider:

• Pregnancy: Hot saunas aren’t typically recommended for pregnant women.
• Medications: Some medications don’t react well to infrared rays
• Medical Conditions: While far infrared saunas can alleviate many medical conditions, this isn’t always the case.

If you’re pregnant, taking prescription medications, or have any medical conditions, you can always ask your healthcare provider what their recommendations are and if far infrared sauna therapy is right for you.

Preparing for Far Infrared Sauna Therapy

If you’re new to using far infrared saunas, here are some important things to know to help you prepare and get the most from your experience.

• Shower: While reputable facilities with far infrared saunas have a deep-cleaning and sanitizing process, you always want to make sure you shower and come to your appointment clean.
• Hydrate: Since sauna treatments lead to deep sweating, it’s essential to hydrate. We recommend replenishing by drinking water before and after your session. You can also have water during your sauna appointment.
• Rest: After your treatment, you’ll probably feel much more relaxed. You may also feel a little lightheaded if it’s your first or second visit. So, take it easy after your appointment as much as you can.
• What to Wear: The key to wellness treatments like a far infrared sauna is enjoying the experience. Wear what you’re comfortable in – most people prefer a bathing suit or their birthday suit!
• Sauna Temperature: Infrared saunas’ temperature usually ranges from 100°F to 170°F. If you’re new to sauna therapy, it’s best to start at a lower temperature and work your way up.
• Length of Session: You can also start with a shorter session, about 10 to 15 minutes, and work your way up after you’ve used a sauna a few times. After a couple of sessions, you should be able to enjoy your treatment for 20 to 30 minutes.

FAQ

Still have a few questions about far infrared saunas? We’re happy to answer them!

What’s the difference between far and near infrared saunas?

While both far and near infrared saunas are excellent treatments, the healing therapy of far infrared saunas is said to be much more significant. The effects are more prominent since a far infrared sauna penetrates the skin more, bringing out sweat and toxins from deeper tissues.

Is far infrared sauna safe?

Yes, infrared saunas are generally safe. For most people, they provide health and wellness benefits. Since far infrared sauna therapy speeds up your heart rate and circulation, you should consult your healthcare provider if you have heart, liver, or blood pressure issues.

Are there any side effects to using infrared saunas?

While studies don’t show that there are major side effects of using infrared saunas, there are a few things to consider. 

• Lightheaded: Since your body sweats a lot during sauna treatments, it’s normal to become somewhat lightheaded. This is why we recommend taking it easy after your session. 
• Dehydration: Again, deep sweating can lead to dehydration. It’s essential to drink water before and after relaxing in a sauna. This will also help with any lightheadedness you experience.
• Overheating: If you’re new to using a sauna, it’s important to use lower heat for your first couple of sessions.

These potential side effects are typical, especially for your first few visits. And, they should subside soon after your session with water and rest.

What does infrared sauna do?

Infrared saunas use infrared light waves to heat your body and skin from within by penetrating your body’s deep tissues. It causes heavy sweating and detoxification, which cleanses the body of unwanted and potentially harmful toxins and bacteria. As a result, the body experiences various health and wellness benefits. 

What are the benefits of infrared sauna?

You can experience a variety of health and wellness benefits during an infrared sauna session. These include anti-aging, weight loss, detoxification, pain relief, relaxation, and better sleep.

How often should I use infrared saunas?

When you first start using an infrared sauna, you shouldn’t go more than once per week. After your first few visits and your body has adjusted, you can go 3-4 times per week.

Far Infrared Sauna Key Takeaways

By using modern-day technology that heats the body from within, far infrared saunas can relax the body and lead to better health and wellness. If you’re hoping to improve a medical condition with infrared sauna therapy, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider. 

Interested in booking an infrared sauna session in Denver, CO? Check out Oakwell Beer Spa, where you enjoy a unique day spa and taproom experience!