Far Infrared Sauna Therapy: Benefits, Risks, and FAQs

Many people enjoy how infrared sauna waves directly heat the body, which is said to cause less steam and increase effectiveness. In this article, we’ll discuss how a far infrared sauna works, its benefits, and risks. We’ll also discuss how to prepare for an infrared sauna treatment and answer FAQs.

What is a far infrared sauna?

A far infrared sauna works by using modern-day technology to penetrate the cellular level of the body, increasing body temperature and causing sweat to release toxins and relieve muscle tension.

The primary difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna is the way they heat your body. While infrared heat raises your core body temperature, traditional saunas heat the air around you to jumpstart your body’s perspiration.

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, causing you to sweat from internal processes. As this happens, your heart rate increases as your circulation improves. 

Far Infrared Sauna Benefits

Medical professionals believe there are various infrared sauna benefits.

Anti-Aging

As you sweat and release toxins in an infrared sauna, you eliminate bacteria and dead skin from the top layer of your skin, aiding with anti-aging. This helps your skin become smoother and softer. Infrared rays also help clear up acne, enhance elasticity for reduced wrinkles, and improve skin tone. 

Weight Loss

While saunas aren’t meant to be a weight loss treatment, they can help. During a sauna treatment, your heart rate increases and tricks your body into thinking it’s participating in cardio exercise. Sweating also requires a lot of your body’s energy, so you get to rest as you burn calories and get rid of excess fluid.

Heart Health

Patients with cardiovascular risks use far infrared saunas to improve their heart health. Some evidence shows that saunas can help normalize blood pressure and improve heart concerns. That said, infrared saunas shouldn’t be used for treatment, and it’s vital to consult your healthcare provider for appropriate treatment of health concerns.

Pain Relief

Many people who experience pain find relief during an infrared sauna treatment. As your blood vessels expand and circulation improves, muscle tension decreases. Research also 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, resulting in a deep sweat. As you sweat, you release toxins and can eliminate excess sodium, cholesterol, nicotine, and heavy metals in your body.

Relaxation and Better Sleep

If you’ve ever had a sauna treatment, you may have felt immediately relaxed and ready for a nap. Infrared sauna benefits, like pain relief and detoxification, help your body more relaxed. Relaxation leads to better sleep, resulting in better mental and physical well-being. 

Who (Maybe) Shouldn’t Use Far Infrared Saunas

While infrared saunas are effective 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 when choosing if infrared sauna therapy is right for you:

• 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, they can sometimes make them worse

If you’re pregnant, taking prescription medications, or have any medical conditions, consult your healthcare provider.

Preparing for Far Infrared Sauna Therapy

Below, we’ll share how you can prepare for an infrared sauna treatment to fully enjoy the experience and reap the benefits.

• Take a shower: While reputable facilities have a deep cleaning and sanitizing process, it’s best to shower and come to your appointment clean. Removing dirt and oil from your skin can also help make the sauna session more effective.
• Hydrate: Since sauna treatments lead to deep sweating, it’s vital to drink plenty of water before and after your session to prevent dehydration.
• Rest: After your treatment, you’ll probably feel much more relaxed. You may also feel a little lightheaded if you’re new to sauna therapy, so prepare to rest afterward.
• Dress comfortably: The key to spa treatments is enjoying your experience, so dress for comfort. Most people wear a swimsuit or even their birthday suit.
• Understand the 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.
• Build up your time: Start with 10 to 15-minute sessions, and work your way up to 20 to 20 minutes after you’ve used the sauna a few times. 

Far Infrared Sauna Therapy FAQs

Let’s explore answers to common questions below.

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

While both far and near-infrared saunas are excellent wellness treatments, the healing therapy of far-infrared saunas is said to be much more significant as your skin is deeply penetrated, bringing out sweat and toxins from deeper tissues.

Is a far infrared sauna safe?

Infrared saunas are safe for most people and even have 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 concerns. If you’re pregnant or on medication, you should also consult your doctor.

Are there any side effects to using infrared saunas?

While studies don’t show that there are major side effects of using infrared saunas, some people experience lightheadedness, dehydration, or overheating. It’s important to start with a lower temperature and shorter time and build your way up. Hydrating and resting afterward is also helpful. 

How often should I use an infrared sauna?

If you’re new to infrared sauna therapy, go once per week for a few visits. If your body responds well, you can increase your sessions up to four times per week.

Far Infrared Sauna: Conclusion

By using modern-day technology that heats the body from within, far infrared saunas can relax the body and improve your mental and physical well-being.

If you’re in Denver and want to experience infrared sauna therapy at an award-winning day spa, check out Oakwell Beer Spa. You can book a spa day in a private Beer Therapy Room, which includes Beer Bath Hydrotherapy and Infrared Sauna for a rejuvenating spa session.