Operation of infrared sauna, all you need to know
Infrared saunas have become very popular in recent years as a natural and holistic approach to wellness. Proponents claim that these saunas offer numerous health benefits, ranging from detoxification and relaxation to pain relief and improved circulation. Sceptics, however, doubt whether these claims about infrared saunas are supported by scientific evidence. So the question remains: Does an infrared sauna really work?
To understand the effectiveness of infrared saunas, it is important to first understand the technology behind them. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared heaters to deliver radiant heat directly to your body. This infrared heat penetrates the skin and raises the core temperature of the human body, unlike traditional steam sauna methods that heat the surrounding air. This radiant heat causes intense sweating at lower air temperatures, which many find more comfortable.
Infrared saunas work by emitting infrared waves that are absorbed by human tissue, producing heat from within. This deeper penetration distinguishes them from regular dry sauna bathing, providing therapeutic effects without the discomfort of high ambient temperatures. The intense in-depth effect of the Infraheat radiators stimulates the metabolism, among other things, and ensures intensive blood flow to the skin, muscles and organs. Oxygen and nutrients are better absorbed by the muscles. Toxic waste products such as heavy metals, nicotine, lead, cholesterol and fat are removed from the body faster. The result is a thorough cleansing of the skin, which becomes softer, smoother and tighter, better circulation in muscles, organs and the body, more supple muscles, soft, healthy skin and a general feeling of comfort and well-being. These infrared sauna sessions offer substantial benefits, particularly for cardiovascular function and the immune system. The lower sauna temperature also prevents skin irritation. The purifying effect of infrared sauna has a positive impact on skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema.
There is a positive effect on menstrual pains, fibromyalgia, rheumatism, muscle pains, cirrhosis of the liver, cystitis, sciatica, whiplash, stretch marks, diabetes, varicosis or varicose veins, haemorrhoids, etc. Because infrared almost doubles the blood flow, there is a positive cardiovascular effect, your medication reaches its destination where it is needed earlier and better, the effect and efficiency of medication is therefore often higher, oxygen and nutrients reach your muscles and organs better.
Evidence suggests that regular sauna use—especially far infrared sauna treatments—may benefit those with chronic pain or cardiovascular disease. The lower air temperature allows users with high blood pressure or heat sensitivity to enjoy the benefits of sauna bathing more safely.
Unlike a hot tub or traditional saunas that use steam, infrared saunas use infrared lamps to deliver targeted heat to the body directly, without excessively heating the air. This makes the experience more tolerable for people with certain health conditions.
In addition, there is much better removal of waste products and cellulite can be reduced. One litre of perspiration water from an IR sauna contains about 20% waste products, compared to about 3% in a regular sauna. It is therefore advisable to stay hydrated before, during, and after using a sauna. You lose a lot of water in the infrared sauna, and experience dehydration if you don't replenish fluids. Sweating also requires a lot of energy and therefore ensures a strong calorie burn and a beneficial workout for the cardiovascular system. This contributes to weight loss and improved heart health.
Infrared radiation also relieves muscle and joint pains such as sprains, rheumatism, fibromyalgia and arthritis. Both tension, swelling and stiffness of the muscles are reduced. At the end of a good infrared session the body temperature is raised, boosting white blood cell production. This makes infrared sauna therapy beneficial for immune function and mental health by reducing stress and stimulating endorphin release.
Detoxify in the infrared sauna
A key benefit of infrared saunas is detoxification. Proponents claim that the sweating caused by the infrared heat helps reduce toxins from the body, such as heavy metals and chemicals. Although sweating plays a role in detoxification, the specific claims made by proponents of infrared saunas are not yet fully supported by scientific research. Learn more about detoxing/detoxing in an infrared sauna. Learn more about detoxing in an infrared sauna.
Relaxation in the infrared sauna
Relaxation and stress reduction are also cited as benefits. The heat of the infrared sauna can help relax muscles and promote a sense of well-being. Infrared heat is thought to stimulate the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers and mood enhancers. This infrared sauna experience can support both physical recovery and emotional balance.
Pain relief through infrared sauna
Pain relief is another area where infrared saunas can be beneficial. The deep heat generated by the infrared sauna relieves muscle and joint pain by increasing blood flow and promoting the release of endorphins. Some studies have shown promising results when using infrared saunas for pain relief, especially for conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. More information on these studies can be found here.
Improved blood circulation is often cited as another benefit of infrared saunas. The heat from the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow and allowing more oxygen and nutrients to flow to body tissues. Infrared saunas have no negative side effects, such as painkillers or other treatments. This partly explains the popularity of an infrared sauna for the home. More and more healthcare professionals recommend an infrared sauna as an alternative treatment. Discover all infrared sauna health benefits. Patients with multiple sclerosis or chronic pain may also experience temporary relief through this gentle heat exposure. Explore how infrared saunas help with Lyme disease.
Heat is transferred through the skin in an infrared sauna
Because infrared radiation is converted into heat in the epidermis, air temperature does not matter substantially. Toxic substances in the skin are easily removed with the sweat. Sweating is up to three times harder in the Infraplus infrared sauna compared to the traditional sauna, and up to seven times more toxic substances come along with it. Some metals can only leave the body this way, liver and kidneys do not excrete them. All the positive effects of the sauna are present with the infrared sauna and usually to a higher degree than the westernised sauna. This at pleasant temperatures of up to 65 degrees. Far infrared sauna models are especially effective in reaching optimal heat absorption at lower temperatures, making them more comfortable while maintaining the clinical effects. Read more about temperature settings for infrared saunas.
To gain cardiovascular effects and resistance benefits, sauna time should be at least 30 minutes. For pain relief or sore muscles, 10 to 15 minutes is usually sufficient.
Infrared therapy continues to grow in popularity thanks to its many benefits for the human body, from detox to cardiovascular health. With the right use and attention to hydration and safety, it is a powerful wellness tool.
Conclusion
Although infrared saunas are generally considered safe for most people, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new wellness regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, or are pregnant.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always exercise caution, stay hydrated, and listen to your body during infrared sauna use. With proper use, infrared saunas can offer a relaxing and potentially beneficial addition to your health and wellness routine.