Infrared saunas are often considered better than traditional saunas due to their ability to provide more therapeutic benefits. But what are its pros and cons?
Healthcare Stocks
May 6, 2024
An infrared sauna utilizes infrared heaters to emit radiant heat, which is absorbed by the skin's surface, providing warmth. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the body primarily through heated air and surfaces, infrared saunas mainly rely on radiation.
Infrared saunas offer various health benefits, according to research. They can help improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood vessel function, which is akin to moderate cardiovascular exercise. Studies have shown that regular use of infrared saunas can aid in weight loss, although it's not a sole cause.
An infrared sauna utilizes infrared heaters to emit radiant heat, which is absorbed by the skin's surface, providing warmth. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the body primarily through heated air and surfaces, infrared saunas mainly rely on radiation.
The concept of infrared saunas dates back to the 19th century when John Harvey Kellogg invented radiant heat saunas, promoting their healing properties. Revived in Japan in the 1970s as Waon Therapy, infrared saunas are now used worldwide.
They come in various designs, resembling traditional saunas or even as portable tents with infrared elements. Infrared saunas, emitting far infrared light directly felt by the body, operate at lower temperatures than traditional saunas, allowing longer sessions and deeper penetration of heat into the body, resulting in a more vigorous sweat.
An infrared sauna differs from a traditional sauna in its heating method and temperature. While a traditional sauna warms the air around you, an infrared sauna uses panels emitting infrared light waves to directly heat your body. This results in a lower temperature in an infrared sauna, typically between 120˚F and 140˚F, compared to the higher temperatures of 150˚F to 180˚F in traditional saunas.
The infrared sauna's heat penetrates deeper into your body, causing more intense sweating at a lower temperature and allowing for longer sessions. Both types offer various health benefits, such as improved circulation, pain relief, relaxation, and detoxification, but infrared saunas are believed to provide deeper tissue relief.
Additionally, infrared saunas have a shorter heat-up time, require lower running costs due to less electricity usage, and need less maintenance compared to traditional saunas. Installation is also easier for infrared saunas, while traditional saunas require more effort and professional assistance.
Infrared saunas offer various health benefits, according to research. They can help improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood vessel function, which is akin to moderate cardiovascular exercise. Studies have shown that regular use of infrared saunas can aid in weight loss, although it's not a sole cause.
Additionally, while the concept of detoxification from saunas is popular, scientific evidence suggests that our bodies naturally eliminate toxins regardless of sauna use. However, infrared saunas have been shown to benefit specific health conditions. They can help lower the risk of pneumonia and improve asthma symptoms, as well as provide relief from pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas use dry heat and infrared light to heat the body from within, operating at lower temperatures. These sessions have been associated with muscle recovery, stress reduction, and heart health, although further research is needed to fully understand their benefits.
Sources:
Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas - WebMD
Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas - health
Are Saunas Good for You? Understanding the Benefits vs. the Risks - healthline
Using an infrared sauna for the first time is a straightforward process, ensuring you get the most out of your experience.
Alongside the positive benefits of infrared saunas, there are potential negative effects and risks associated with their use as well.
These include mild to moderate heat discomfort, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, leg pain, airway irritation, and claustrophobia. There have been reports of burns, fainting, and falls, with some severe complications and deaths among frequent users, though these are rare. Ongoing sauna exposure can also temporarily affect sperm health. Dr. Ashish Sharma warns that prolonged infrared sauna use can lead to overheating, dehydration, and even heat exhaustion or stroke.
Certain individuals, such as those with heart conditions, low blood pressure, kidney disease, or those taking certain medications, should avoid infrared saunas. Pregnant women, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or unhealed wounds should also refrain from using them.
Dr. Sharma suggests that if the risks outweigh the benefits, alternative methods like cardiovascular and strength training exercises can provide similar health benefits. It's advisable to consult a doctor before using infrared saunas, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Several companies manufacture infrared saunas. Some well-known brands include:
These are just a few examples, but there are many other companies producing infrared saunas as well.
You can find infrared saunas for sale from various places, both online and offline. Here are some options:
Infrared sauna prices vary widely depending on factors such as the type of sauna, quality of materials and equipment, size, and additional features.
Entry-level units can start at around $2,000, while high-quality mid-market saunas range from $7,000 to $10,000. For instance, a basic sauna with ceramic heaters and hemlock framing may cost approximately $2,500, while a premium option made of Western Red Cedar with superior carbon fiber heaters, plus features like a sound system and Bluetooth capability, could cost upwards of $8,000.
You can try looking for wellness centers, spas, or gyms that offer infrared sauna sessions. Many cities have wellness centers dedicated to holistic health and relaxation that include infrared saunas among their services.
You might also find them in high-end gyms or wellness-focused resorts. It's a good idea to check online or call ahead to inquire about availability and pricing.
If you're unsure where to start, a quick search online for "infrared sauna near me" should give you some options.
If the demand for infrared saunas increases, it's likely to have a positive impact on various sectors and companies involved in the production, distribution, and use of these products. Here are a few sectors and companies that might benefit:
Look into companies that specialize in health and wellness products, particularly those that focus on alternative therapies and holistic health. They might already have infrared sauna products or could expand into this area.
As infrared saunas are often installed at homes, companies in the home improvement sector might see increased sales.
Infrared saunas are popular in wellness retreats and spas. If wellness tourism increases, it could benefit companies involved in hospitality and tourism.
Some gyms and fitness centers are incorporating infrared saunas into their facilities to attract customers seeking holistic health experiences.
Technology plays a role in infrared sauna design and functionality.
Companies that sell wellness products online might see a boost in sales if infrared saunas gain popularity.
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