An infrared sauna is a type of heat therapy that uses far infrared (FIR) waves to stimulate your body’s natural sweat glands. Research shows that it can help improve skin health, relieve chronic pain, and even reduce depression symptoms.
What is infrared sauna good for?
An infrared sauna doesn’t use steam, but instead is heated by infrared heaters. These heaters produce a light spectrum of infrared photons that carry the same energy as light from the sun (though not ultraviolet wavelengths).
The infrared light has been shown to increase blood flow and promote lymphatic drainage, which helps your skin detoxify and rejuvenate. It also stimulates fibroblast cells, which can aid in cell renewal and tissue growth.
Anti-aging benefits
Infrared saunas can make your skin glowy and smoother by triggering the production of collagen and elastin. This is because the infrared light can penetrate deep into your skin, where fibroblast cells are located.
Weight loss: Regularly using an infrared sauna can trigger a 16-fold boost in growth hormone production. However, you can only reap this benefit if you use it consistently.
Sleep better: Several studies show that infrared saunas can induce a greater release of melatonin, which can help your body fall asleep easier and get more restful sleep.
Safety: Seek medical clearance before using an infrared sauna, especially if you have any health conditions.
Avoid alcohol before using the sauna, since it can dehydrate your body and contribute to low blood pressure and heart problems. You should also hydrate immediately after your session to replenish the water lost during your sweating.