If you follow wellness trends, you might’ve come across the claim that an infrared sauna, which heats the body with light, is better for you than a traditional sauna, which uses radiant heat from a stove. In short, this claim is a myth, and is not supported by any strong comparative evidence.
Why is infrared sauna better than normal sauna?
Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body from within rather than the air from without, as a traditional sauna does. … Infrared-sauna makers claim that the light penetrates skin more deeply than the heat of a traditional sauna, which leads to more sweat, which leads to a more abundant release of “toxins.”
Which sauna is better infrared or traditional?
The temperature for a traditional sauna typically ranges between 150 and 185º F. … In an IR sauna the bather will feel hot and will sweat profusely, but at much lower temperatures. Thus, if the goal is to spend longer periods of time in the sauna, the IR sauna is a good choice.
What type of sauna is healthiest?
Additionally, The Journal of American College of Cardiology reports that infrared sauna treatments significantly increase circulation, improve heart health, and aid in weight loss. As calculated by the increase in heart rate, a 30-minute infrared sauna session can burn 200-600 calories.
Which is better infrared sauna or dry sauna?
Infrared saunas also operate at a much lower temperature, usually between 120˚F (48.9°C) and 140˚F (60°C). And you can stay in them longer than dry saunas, with 20 minutes being the average time. … Some people will stay in an infrared sauna up to 30 minutes.
What are the dangers of infrared saunas?
As with any sauna, the dangers of infrared saunas include the risk of becoming overheated, dehydrated, or dizzy. You can generally avoid this by drinking enough fluids before and after. And of course, avoid using any drugs or alcohol when trying a sauna. Some individuals need to use an infrared sauna with caution.
Why infrared sauna is bad for you?
Sharma says the dry heat generated in an infrared sauna can cause you to become overheated, and if used for a prolonged session, it can also cause dehydration and even heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Are infrared saunas worth it?
Several studies have looked at using infrared saunas in the treatment of chronic health problems, such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, headache, type 2 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, and found some evidence of benefit.
Which type of sauna is best?
WINNER: INFRARED
An infrared sauna provides a much milder temperature environment – between 120 to 150 degrees F. Additionally, the light of infrared saunas travels much deeper into the body, meaning they are to cause a more vigorous sweat, despite the lower (and more comfortable) temperature.
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Is buying an infrared sauna worth it?
Studies on athletes have shown faster healing with heat and so infrared saunas might be appropriate for use in conjunction with good nutrient intake, sleep, and massage. As an alternative to medication, one study suggests this could be one of the tools for people with chronic, difficult to treat pain.
Is it good to do infrared sauna everyday?
There is no one answer for the amount of sessions per week, but infrared saunas are safe to use every day. In fact, you will see wellness improvements sooner if you use it daily. On average, most people partake in 30-45 minute sessions, 3-4 times a week.
What is the difference between infrared and steam sauna?
An infrared sauna is a wood-based room that heats the user directly with infrared rays that penetrate the body. A steam room is an airtight room of non-porous material that heats the environment with a steam generator. Infrared saunas produce dry heat, whereas steam rooms create moist heat.