Infrared saunas have become increasingly popular, but what are they really? Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the air around them, infrared saunas use infrared emitters to heat the body directly. These emitters generate a type of light that, although invisible to the human eye, penetrates the deeper layers of the skin, heating the muscles and tissues more efficiently.
The temperature inside an infrared sauna is significantly lower than in a traditional sauna, generally ranging between 40°C and 60°C, which makes the experience more comfortable for many users. The heat that penetrates deeper into the muscle tissues and joints provides a more intense feeling of relaxation, without the discomfort of extreme heat.
What are the Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas?
Many people choose infrared saunas for their health benefits. But what benefits can we expect?
1.Detoxification: Sweating is one of the body's natural ways of eliminating toxins. As infrared heat penetrates deeper into the tissues, it can induce more intense perspiration and therefore more effective detoxification compared to traditional saunas. Studies indicate that the sweat produced in an infrared sauna contains more toxins than sweat caused by physical exercise, such as heavy metals and chemical compounds.
2.Pain relief: Infrared heat is particularly effective forrelieving muscle and joint pain. A study published in *Clinical Rheumatology* showed that patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis reported a significant reduction in pain after infrared sauna sessions .
3.Muscle recovery: Athletes and active people use infrared saunas to speed up muscle recovery. The heat improves blood circulation, bringing oxygen and essential nutrients to fatigued muscles, which speeds up muscle regeneration after intense workouts.
4. Improved Cardiovascular Health: Using an infrared sauna simulates the effects of light cardiovascular exercise. The heart rate increases, circulation improves and, over time, cardiovascular health also benefits. A study in JAMA Internal Medicine found that regular sauna use was associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
Comparing the Infrared Sauna with the Traditional Sauna
A common question among sauna enthusiasts is: What is the difference between the infrared sauna and the traditional sauna?
The main difference lies in the way the heat is generated and felt by the body. While the traditional sauna uses an oven to heat the air and increase the room temperature, the infrared sauna heats the body directly, which means you can get an intense sweat at a lower, more comfortable temperature.
In addition, the heat of the traditional sauna remains on the surface of the body, while infrared heat penetrates the deeper layers of the skin, muscles and joints. For people with heat sensitivity, the infrared sauna can be a more pleasant option, as it offers the same benefits with less heat stress.
Does an Infrared Sauna Help with Weight Loss?
This is one of the most discussed topics among infrared sauna users. So, is it possible to lose weight using an infrared sauna?
Although not a substitute for physical exercise and a balanced diet, infrared saunas can help in the weight loss process. The increase in heart rate and perspiration means that the body works harder to cool itself down, burning calories in the process. A Japanese study showed that regular use of infrared saunas can help reduce body fat, with participants reporting a calorie loss similar to that of brisk walking.
However, it is important to stress that any immediate weight loss after a sauna session will be mainly from fluids, due to sweating, and it is necessary to keep hydrated.
Who Should Avoid Infrared Saunas?
Despite the many benefits, there are certain situations in which the use of infrared saunas should be avoided or done under medical supervision.
1. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid exposure to high temperatures, including the use of infrared saunas, due to the risk of overheating and potential complications.
2.People with Specific Health Conditions: Individuals with cardiovascular disease, hypertension or who are taking medication that affects body temperature regulation should consult a doctor before using an infrared sauna.
3. Dehydration: Intense sweating can lead to dehydration, so it is crucial to ensure that you are adequately hydrated before and after the session.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Infrared Sauna?
1.Hydration: Before entering an infrared sauna, drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Continue to hydrate during and after the session.
2. Session Length: For beginners, it is recommended to start with sessions of 10 to 15 minutes and gradually increase to 30-40 minutes, depending on your tolerance to the heat.
3. Frequency: Using the sauna two to three times a week may be enough to get visible results in terms of detoxification, pain relief and improved general health. However, regular users can increase the frequency to daily sessions, as long as they monitor their physical condition well.
4. Combination with Stretching or Meditation: Take advantage of the relaxing environment to perform gentle stretching or meditation practices while enjoying the infrared heat. This can help improve flexibility and reduce stress.
Curious to Try an Infrared Sauna?
Now that you know all the benefits and features of infrared saunas, you may be wondering if it's the right choice for you. If you want to enjoy a device that offers a profound wellness experience, comfort and health benefits, an infrared sauna is an excellent option.
At Saunamo, we have a variety of infrared saunas, as well as hybrid options for those who want the best of both worlds.
Contact us to find out more and discover how you can transform your wellness routine with an infrared sauna.