Infrared Saunas: The Pros & Cons

When choosing a home sauna, there are a few important questions to think ask yourself. First, why a home sauna instead of going to the local spa or gym? Infrared sauna or traditional sauna? And lastly, what are the pros and cons of an infrared sauna. Investment purchases, like infrared saunas require a bit of research and thought before you make your selection. Let’s go over some of the pros and cons of an infrared sauna so that your sauna shopping experience can be easy and fun!

Pros

Did you know that saunas have been in use all over the world for centuries, as part of bathing and relaxation culture? Infrared saunas are the 21^st century version of these time-tested traditional saunas that fit into your home and your needs, without having to go to the local spa or specialty gym.

In addition to being a relaxing experience, spending time in the sauna a few times a week can be beneficial to your health. Sauna sessions raise your heartrate and blood pressure, just like cardio workouts, which can help reduce your overall blood pressure. Frequent sauna use can also help with mood, stress, and even sleep patterns.

Regular Sauna Use Benefits:

• Improved heart health
• Pain relief
• Soothing sore muscles especially after a tough workout
• Fighting off the common cold
• Reducing oxidative stress and inflammation - Sauna use may aid in preventing certain diseases
• Detoxification - sweat out heavy metals and other toxins
• Better skin – especially for people with psoriasis
• Better sleep- when you’re more relaxed, you sleep better!

Cons

Saunas aren’t for everyone.  If you have pre-existing health conditions, ask your doctor before engaging in a long sauna session. Sauna use is not recommended for people with certain conditions such as MS (multiple sclerosis), or if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. Try not to use the sauna if you’ve been sick or feverish.

While saunas have minimal health risks, there are some health factors that can be viewed as a con so you should be careful when using the sauna if you have any of the below health conditions:

• Heat discomfort or intolerance
• Low blood pressure - particularly if you already have low blood pressure and/or heart conditions
• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Difficulty breathing
• Claustrophobia
• Leg Pain
• Mild skin irritation, especially if you already have skin conditions like dermatitis

The best approach for using a sauna for the first time is to start with the setting low and only stay inside for 5-10 minutes. Always make sure you’re well hydrated before entering the sauna to minimize discomfort. If you start to feel dizzy or sick while using the sauna, that’s a sign that it’s time to get out!

Infrared saunas use lamps and electromagnets to heat up the small wooden rooms, creating a glowing cozy environment to meditate and relax. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas are kept at a lower temperature that’s a bit more comfortable for most people, making them more feasible for home use.

Explore all of our home sauna options to find the perfect sauna for you. We offer free shipping with no sales tax on all orders*!

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