Most of us use a traditional sauna. However, a much better solution can be an infrared sauna. Although it is not so popular, it provides many benefits to the body. How does it work, who can use it and what effects does it give?

How does infrared sauna work?

In saunas of this type, infrared (IR) radiation is used. Depending on the wavelength range, three types of IR radiation are distinguished: shortwave IR-A (780-1500 nm), medium wave IR-B (1500-4000 nm) and long-wave IR-C (4000-15000 nm). The infrared sauna uses IR-C radiation. About 80% of the generated radiation is absorbed by the skin in which it transforms into heat. The remaining infrared light heats the air. That’s why in the sauna you do not feel hot and you do not sweat.

What does infrared sauna look like?

The infrared sauna is built of wood protected against resin leakage and deformation. It is also equipped with insulation that protects against temperature drop. IR radiators are enclosed with wooden grilles that prevent damage and burns. In the sauna, you also have benches with backs made of a tree resistant to excessive heating.

How to use infrared sauna?

One treatment in the IR sauna should last from 15 to 40 minutes. The therapy can be used three to five times during the week. You can go inside covered. You do not have to protect your eyes from IR-C rays. It is required to protect the sight apparatus in saunas where IR-A and IR-B radiation are used.

Indications and contraindications

The infrared sauna can be used to treat: problems with joints and circulation, depression and fatigue, obesity and overweight, post-traumatic and inflammatory conditions.
Contraindications include: pregnancy, cancer, surgical implants, pacemaker, acute inflammation, alcohol consumption.

Infrared sauna – benefits for people

Infrared radiation used in saunas has a positive effect on the skin and the entire human body. The benefits of IR treatments include:

• weight reduction,
• stimulation of the formation of new capillaries,
• improvement of microcirculation and metabolism,
• reducing chronic pain,
• improvement of the blood vessels elasticity,
• acceleration of wound healing,
• stimulation of the immune system.

The negative effects of using the sauna include: dermatitis, premature ageing of the skin and the formation of tumours.