Infrared Sauna Therapy

An infrared sauna uses infrared heaters that emit near, mid, and far infrared wavelengths to warm the body directly rather than heating the surrounding air. This creates a deep, gentle heat that encourages sweating at lower, more tolerable temperatures.

Infrared saunas warm the body directly using infrared light, while traditional saunas heat the surrounding air. Because of this difference, infrared saunas typically operate at lower temperatures—often around 120°F to 150°F—while traditional saunas can reach 180°F or higher, making the experience more tolerable for many people.

People use infrared sauna for a range of observed benefits that develop over time. These commonly include improved circulation, sweating that supports physical detoxification, muscle relaxation, physical comfort, and a general sense of recovery and ease in the body. Some people also notice changes in skin appearance and overall energy with regular use. Experiences vary, and benefits are typically cumulative rather than immediate.

Infrared saunas typically operate between 120°F and 150°F. Although this is lower than traditional saunas, the heat is experienced as effective because it warms the body directly rather than heating the surrounding air.

Infrared sauna is generally well tolerated, but suitability varies by individual. People with specific health considerations or sensitivities may wish to seek guidance before use and are encouraged to listen to their body and adjust sessions for comfort.

Infrared sauna encourages sweating, which many people associate with a sense of physical release and detoxification. Staying well hydrated before, during, and after a session supports comfort and how the experience feels overall.

Infrared sauna includes a weight-focused program that increases heat exposure and cardiovascular engagement, which can lead to higher calorie expenditure during a session. Some people choose this program as part of a broader routine that supports metabolic activity and body composition. Results vary by individual and are influenced by overall habits.

Infrared heat warms the body directly rather than heating the surrounding air, encouraging blood flow by allowing vessels to relax and open more easily. Many people experience a sense of warmth, circulation, and physical ease during and after sessions, which can support comfort and recovery over time.

Infrared sauna includes a pain-focused program designed to increase heat penetration and circulation, which many people use to address muscle tension, soreness, and joint stiffness. Sessions are often described as loosening the body, improving mobility, and reducing physical discomfort over time. Because all sauna programs involve heat and tissue penetration, many people notice similar physical easing across programs, even when pain relief is not the primary focus.

Some people living with ongoing physical discomfort choose infrared sauna because the warmth and circulation support can make their body feel looser and more comfortable over time. Experiences vary, and use is guided by individual tolerance and comfort rather than by condition-specific expectations.

Frequency depends on your health and goals. For general wellness, 2 to 4 times a week is common, but for specific health concerns, daily use may be recommended.  There was a Finnish study that recommended 5 to 6 times a week.  According to that study, more was better. 

Typical infrared sauna sessions last between 30 and 45 minutes. Session length can vary depending on the program selected and individual comfort. Some people choose to book back-to-back sessions using different programs, such as detox followed by cardio, based on personal preference and tolerance.

Because the sauna includes color therapy, full skin exposure allows both the infrared heat and light to be experienced more directly. Some people choose to go in nude, while others wear a bikini or minimal clothing. Towels are provided to sit on during the session and to dry off afterward.

There is no requirement to shower before or after using the sauna. In my experience, the dry infrared heat environment feels clean, and many people feel refreshed afterward and return directly to their normal activities. Showering, if desired, can be done at home and is a matter of personal preference.

Many people use an infrared sauna regularly, including daily, if it feels comfortable for them. Frequency is guided by individual tolerance, hydration, and how the body responds over time rather than by a fixed schedule.

Some people notice changes in skin clarity with regular infrared sauna use, likely related to increased circulation and sweating. Responses vary by individual, and most people approach sessions gradually to see how their skin responds over time.

Some people use infrared sauna regularly as part of their overall wellness routine. In my own experience, I often choose to use the sauna when I feel run down or exposed to outside germs, because the warmth, circulation, and sweating feel supportive to my body. How people experience this varies, and use is guided by personal preference rather than expectations of specific immune outcomes.

Infrared sauna use during pregnancy is generally avoided because of concerns about overheating. Anyone who is pregnant should defer use and make decisions based on personal circumstances and guidance they trust.

Suitability varies by individual. People who are sensitive to heat, experience dizziness, or feel unwell in warm environments are encouraged to start gradually and pay attention to how their body responds. Use is guided by comfort, hydration, and tolerance rather than by a fixed list of conditions.

Infrared sauna can be used by children or older adults with appropriate adjustments. Shorter sessions, lower heat settings, and close supervision help ensure comfort. Use is guided by individual tolerance and attentiveness rather than age alone.

A single infrared sauna session is $60, and a couple’s session is $75. Discounted packages are available for those who choose to purchase multiple sessions.

• Infrared saunas can use near, mid, or far-infrared wavelengths, each of which interacts with the body differently. Near-infrared is absorbed closer to the skin, mid-infrared penetrates more deeply into tissue, and far-infrared reaches the deepest layers and is commonly associated with sweating and heat response. This sauna uses a full-spectrum system, meaning all three wavelength ranges are present rather than only far-infrared.

Staying well hydrated before and after an infrared sauna session is important, as sweating increases fluid loss. Drinking water helps support comfort and recovery and reduces the likelihood of feeling lightheaded or fatigued.

Many people combine infrared sauna sessions with other wellness or recovery practices, such as massage, movement, or cooling approaches. Spacing sessions and paying attention to how your body responds helps maintain comfort and balance.

If you feel lightheaded, overheated, or uncomfortable, end the session and allow your body to cool down. Sitting quietly and hydrating usually resolves symptoms quickly. Sessions are meant to be supportive, not pushed through, and comfort should guide duration and intensity.