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Infrared sauna therapy has gained a lot of attention over recent years and is often praised for its health benefits. From stress reduction to pain relief, it delivers all kinds of health benefits. Despite this, one question still remains intact: Are infrared saunas safe?
Rather than warming the air around you, Infrared saunas directly heat your body through the use of infrared light. Compared with traditional saunas, which operate at higher temperatures, infrared saunas make the sauna experience more tolerable for many individuals as they operate at lower temperatures. The heat released from the saunas penetrates deeper into the skin providing enhanced health benefits. The intense sweating caused by this provides multiple skin and health benefits.
This guide will explore everything you need to know, from benefits to potential risks and expert recommendations, so that your safety is ensured while going into infrared sauna therapy.
Understanding Infrared Sauna Therapy
Traditional saunas and Infrared saunas both operate differently. Infrared saunas warm the body directly using the infrared light rather than warming the air. This heat creates an intense yet tolerable sweating experience by penetrating deeper into the skin at lower temperatures.
The temperatures are typically between 110°F and 140°F (43°C to 60°C).
Traditional saunas often leave their users overwhelmed with the high heat. Their high operating temperatures often create an uncomfortable and uneasy environment for their users.
On the contrary, infrared saunas ensure comfort and ease, which makes them accessible to a wide range of users.
What Are the Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy?
Infrared sauna therapy delivers many valuable benefits for its users. Let's dig into them!
Detoxification
There is a well-known association between infrared sauna therapy and detoxification. The heat released from the saunas induces sweating and further causes the body to release toxins such as heavy metals, chemicals, and pollutants. encourages the body’s natural detox systems.
Improved Circulation
Infrared saunas release heat which causes an increase in the blood flow. This leads to better oxygenation of tissues as well as promotes cardiovascular health. A speedy muscle recovery after engaging in physical activity can be encouraged due to the boost in circulation.
Pain Relief
Many studies suggest that chronic pain conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia may be alleviated through the use of infrared sauna therapy. The intense heat reduces inflammation and stiffness by penetrating into muscles and joints.
Stress Reduction
Infrared saunas provide a relaxing environment that activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for calming and relaxing the body. Lower stress levels, improved mood, and overall better mental well-being can be achieved by the regular use of infrared saunas.
Skin Health
Skin health can also be improved through infrared sauna therapy. The heat encourages blood circulation and induces sweating which can cleanse pores deeply. This further improves skin tone and skin elasticity. Moreover, infrared sauna therapy may also reduce acne and enhance the overall glow.
Are Infrared Saunas Safe for Everyone?
Are you also wondering are infrared saunas safe? Well, let's look into what are the potential risks surrounding sauna therapy.
General Safety
When used appropriately, infrared sauna therapy is safe for most of its users. Compared to traditional saunas, the lower temperature settings of infrared saunas reduce the risk of overheating. Regardless of this, it is important to follow advisory guidelines to ensure a secure experience.
Potential Risks
Though there are many benefits of infrared sauna therapy, improper use can be risky. People with specific health conditions should avoid its use without proper consultation. To make informed decisions, it's important to understand its risks.
Dehydration
The intense heat in the infrared sauna causes sweating which can lead to significant dehydration. Without ensuring proper hydration, you can encounter dizziness, headaches, or fainting.Overheating
Though infrared saunas do not operate at higher temperatures, their prolonged use can still lead to heat exhaustion. In severe cases, you may encounter heatstroke.Heart Strain
Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or hypertension may find the sauna experience sapping due to a rise in heart rate and circulation.Pregnancy Risks
Elevated body temperature can harm fetal development, so it is advised for pregnant individuals to avoid the use of infrared saunas.Skin Sensitivity
People who have sensitive skin may face increased irritation, redness, or other allergic reactions because of the heat or materials used in the sauna.
Who Should Avoid Infrared Sauna Therapy?
For those wondering if are infrared saunas safe, the answer is Infrared saunas can be safely used by many individuals, but for some, its use should entirely be avoided. It's important to consult a healthcare provider before using saunas. This includes:
People who have severe hypertension, arrhythmia or any other cardiovascular conditions should avoid it.
As there are many risks associated with overheating, pregnant individuals should avoid it.
Those who have open wounds, infections, or burns should stay away from it.
People who are on medications that impair sweating or proper heat regulation.
Those people who have extreme heat sensitivity or have thermoregulatory issues should also avoid it.
How to Safely Use Infrared Sauna Therapy
To make your infrared sauna experience safer than ever, follow these steps:
Start With Short Sessions
To allow your body to adapt, start with a maximum 10-15 minutes per session. Once you become more accustomed to the heat, gradually increase the duration. Do not exceed the duration for more than 30 minutes.
Stay Hydrated
To prevent dehydration, keep yourself hydrated before, during, and after your session. Alcohol or caffeine can aggravate fluid loss, so avoid consuming any such drinks.
Monitor Your Body’s Signals
Pay attention and notice the bodily effects of the sauna during a session. Make sure to exit the sauna immediately and cool down if you see any signs of dizziness, nausea, or discomfort.
Preheat and Adjust
Before entering, allow the sauna to preheat for 10-15 minutes. To cater to your specific needs, choose a temperature setting that feels comfortable on your body. This will help to avoid overheating your body.
Seek Professional Advice
Consult your healthcare provider to make sure that infrared sauna therapy is safe for you, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Using it without any precautions can be hazardous.
Comparing Infrared and Traditional Saunas
The user experience and operating methods of infrared saunas and traditional saunas differ significantly from each other. Typically ranging from 150°F to 180°F (65°C to 82°C), traditional saunas heat the surrounding air to high temperatures. Those of you who are sensitive to heat may find it oppressive and hard to bear.
On the contrary, infrared saunas create a deep warming effect while keeping a lower ambient temperature, by using their targeted infrared light. For prolonged sessions and users who may find the intense heat of traditional saunas challenging, infrared saunas are more comfortable and better suited.
Scientific Evidence on Infrared Sauna Therapy
Research about infrared saunas keeps evolving, but numerous studies have worked on highlighting their potential benefits.
For instance, infrared sauna therapy has shown promise in managing chronic pain, improving cardiovascular health, and supporting recovery after exercise. However, further investigation is required for the long-term safety and efficacy of regular use of infrared saunas.
Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in infrared saunas has been raised by many as a concern for health. To address these safety issues, modern models often incorporate low-EMF technology.
Enhancing the Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy
Follow the below-mentioned tips to enhance the benefits of infrared sauna therapy sessions and to know if are infrared saunas safe for you and your loved ones.
Wear Comfortable Clothing:
To stay comfortable during the session, wrap a towel or simply any other breathable fabric around yourself.
Cool Down Gradually:
Avoid sudden and immediate exposure to cold water after your session. Let your body naturally return to its normal temperature.
Incorporate Wellness Practices:
For added relaxation and stress relief, blend the infrared sauna therapy with other healthy activities and incorporate meditation or deep breathing.
Use Quality Equipment:
To ensure and prioritize safety and low-EMF designs, invest in infrared saunas from reputable manufacturers.
Infrared Sauna Therapy for Athletes and Wellness Seekers
Are infrared saunas safe for athletes and wellness seekers?
Infrared saunas are highly popular among wellness seekers and athletes. To reduce muscle soreness and improve circulation, athletes often incorporate the use of infrared saunas to help in recovery.
Regular use of saunas can complement a healthy lifestyle for wellness enthusiasts by encouraging better sleep, relaxation, and improved skin health.
Many people including athletes may consider the use of saunas as a healthier alternative for weight loss. But, it is still important to understand that sweating during a session may temporarily reduce water weight, but it is not a reliable substitute for healthy weight loss. To achieve long-term health goals, blend the use of saunas with proper nutrition and exercise.
Conclusion: Are Infrared Saunas Safe?
So are infrared saunas safe or not?
When used responsibly, infrared sauna therapy is generally safe and quite beneficial. Most individuals can enjoy the perks of saunas without significant risks by adhering to the recommendations and advice of experts, such as staying hydrated and limited session durations
Before incorporating infrared sauna therapy into their routines, people with specific medical conditions or concerns should consult professional advice.
Safety and moderation are paramount, just like with any other wellness practice. Infrared sauna therapy can prove to be a powerful tool that can be used to enhance physical and mental well-being when used with the right precautions.
Explore the world of infrared sauna therapy today and unlock its potential for your health and relaxation goals.
