Heard about Infrared Saunas but never really knew what they are and how they work? Or maybe you're in the market for a new infrared sauna for your home and just want to make sure you've learnt everything you need to know? Don't worry, we've done the research, answered alot of those curious questions surrounding Infrared Saunas and broken it all down for you in this article.
What Is an Infrared Sauna?
Let's start with what an Infrared Sauna actually is. An infrared sauna is a modern take on the traditional sauna, using infrared light to generate heat. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the room through the use of a stove, hot stones and steam, infrared saunas warm your body directly using infrared lamps built into the walls of the sauna itself.
Traditional saunas and infrared saunas are the most common for home use. You can learn more about the differences in our Traditional vs Infrared Saunas: Key Differences article.
How Does an Infrared Sauna Work?
Infrared saunas have infrared lamps built into the walls of the sauna. These lamps emit light waves that penetrate the skin and heat your body from the inside out. As your body absorbs the infrared light, your core temperature rises, which can lead to several potential benefits:
- Increased blood flow
- Pain relief
- Improved skin health
This type of heat therapy helps to detoxify the body by promoting sweating, similar to moderate exercise.
Typically, infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, usually between 49°C and 60°C (120°F to 140°F). This makes them a comfortable option for those who find the intense heat of traditional saunas too overwhelming.
Additionally, because infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, they offer some practical advantages:
- Often more compact in design
- Easier to install in different parts of the home
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What Are the Health Benefits of Using an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared Saunas can be considered a refined, more concentrated version of the traditional sauna. Like their traditional counterparts, Infrared Saunas offer numerous benefits, including :
- Improved Circulation: The heat from infrared saunas can boost blood flow, potentially improving cardiovascular health.
- Detoxification: Sweating induced by infrared saunas may help flush out toxins from your body.
- Muscle Relaxation and Pain Relief: Many users report reduced joint and muscle pain after regular sauna sessions.
- Stress Reduction: The warmth and quiet environment can help lower stress levels, promote relaxation and improve mental well-being.
- Skin Health: Increased circulation might contribute to clearer, healthier-looking skin.
What Should You Wear in an Infrared Sauna?
When using an infrared sauna, what you choose to wear can really impact the effectiveness of your session. The goal is to allow the infrared light to penetrate your skin as much as possible, so wearing lots of clothes is not what you want to do. Here's a brief outline to help you decide what you should, and just as importantly, should not wear during your sauna sessions :
What is suitable to wear :
- Swimwear - Think what you would wear to the beach. Bikini, Speedos, Shorts etc.
- Towel - You can simply wrap yourself in a towel, like you would when you prep for a shower. Just be sure to bring an extra towel to help wipe away sweat.
- Shorts - Breathable loose shorts is the goal here.
- Underwear - Sitting in nothing but your underwear works, just make sure to sit on a towel for hygiene.
- Nothing at all - The Ned Flanders special. Just make sure you still sit on a towel, don't be a skid mark guy, as Miranda would say...
What you should not wear :
- Tight-fitting clothes that restrict consistent sweating.
- Synthetic materials that don't breathe well.
- Jewellery (to prevent overheating and potential burns)
- Shoes
- Makeup
Remember, the less clothing you wear, the better the infrared light can penetrate your skin, maximising the potential benefits of your sauna session. Be sure to bring an extra towel to wipe off sweat during your session.
How Long Should You Stay in an Infrared Sauna?
For beginners, you should start with 10-15 minute sessions and gradually increase to 30-40 minutes as you become more used to the heat. Hydration is very important before and especially after a sauna session. Always listen to your body and stay hydrated.
How to Clean Your Infrared Sauna?
Cleaning your infrared sauna is pretty straightforward. Here are some guidelines to keep your sauna hygienic and well-maintained:
After Each Session:
- Wipe down all surfaces with a clean towel to remove sweat and moisture. This will help in minimising bacteria build up that comes from sweat, keeping your infrared sauna clean and ready for the next session.
For a Deeper Clean:
- Do not use any cleaning chemicals, as these can be harmful when heated.
- Prepare a natural cleaning solution instead :
- Fill a bucket with about 3 litres of water.- Add a small capful of white vinegar to the water and mix well.
- Cleaning process:
- Dip a clean cloth into the solution.- Wring out the cloth until it's only slightly damp.
- Use this damp cloth to clean all surfaces within the infrared sauna.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure your infrared sauna remains clean and hygienic for every use.
Is an Infrared Sauna a Portable Sauna?
When discussing infrared saunas, it's important that we should highlight their portability. Many infrared saunas can be classified as portable saunas, offering a level of flexibility that traditional saunas can't match. As you may have already learned, these amazing portable sauna units are designed with convenience in mind, featuring a plug-and-play setup that allows for easy installation in various locations throughout your home.
The concept of an infrared sauna being classified as a portable sauna might seem abit strange, given the size of most units. However, infrared saunas are often more compact than their traditional counterparts, making them easier to move. Think of these portable saunas as similar to a large appliance like a fridge - while it's not something you'd move willy-nilly, it can be relocated with some effort if needed.
What Makes an Infrared Sauna Portable?
While traditional saunas require additional installation needs and are usually fixed in place, infrared saunas offer a more convenient alternative, thanks to some key portability features we'll re-outline below :
- Plug-and-play functionality: Simply connect to a standard electrical outlet and you're ready to go. Just make sure not to plug anything else in the same outlet.
- Compact design: Takes up less space compared to traditional saunas, making it easier to fit in different rooms.
- Mobility: Can be moved to different locations in your home, allowing for flexible placement options.
- Easy assembly: Many portable sauna models come with straightforward assembly instructions, often not requiring professional installation.
Not only are you enjoying all the health benefits of infrared therapy, you also get the flexibility of a portable sauna, all wrapped up into one awesome unit!
Why Choose an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared saunas are a popular choice for those seeking the health benefits of traditional saunas without the intense heat. Their ability to provide deep, penetrating warmth at lower temperatures makes them suitable for a wide range of users. Whether you're looking to relax, detoxify, or improve your overall health, an infrared sauna can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Explore our range of high-quality infrared saunas and find the perfect fit for your home.