Infrared Sauna Dangers: Points You Must Know to Be Safe

Infrared saunas have become increasingly popular for promoting relaxation and enhancing overall well-being. In fact, many users would quickly argue that there’s no better way to kickstart your day or de-stress after a busy day than with an infrared sauna session.

However, understanding infrared sauna safety recommendations is important to reap the well-researched benefits and avoid any risks or contraindications. 

In this article, we explore infrared sauna dangers, the health benefits of regular infrared sauna usage, and how to mitigate the risks of infrared saunas. 

So, what should you know? How does an infrared sauna work exactly? And how can you safely enjoy every infrared sauna session? 

Understanding Infrared Saunas

A traditional sauna, such as those used by the Finnish, uses heated water or stones to create steam and warm the air. This, then, heats up the body. And this, too, gives way to various health benefits, but an infrared sauna is a little different.

When comparing infrared vs traditional saunas, the key difference is that an infrared sauna is powered by light-specifically far-infrared light. This light penetrates the skin and heats the body directly. 

Surprisingly, infrared saunas also run at a lower temperature when compared to traditional saunas. This means they can be a great alternative for people who can’t stand high heat. 

At the same time, there are plenty of benefits to be found with regular infrared sauna use. Infrared light penetrates the skin deeper than traditional saunas, which makes up for the lack of heat and provides similar—if not more—health advantages.

The Science Behind Infrared Saunas

According to research, infrared light penetrates the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. This is about two to seven centimetres deep, which means it can even reach muscles, nerves, and bones and provide ample healing capabilities.

So, how does this deep penetration lead to the much-talked-about health benefits? Well, this light energy is absorbed by the body’s cells. At a cellular level, this triggers various metabolic events to occur.

One of the biggest pieces of this puzzle might come down to the production of the gas nitric oxide. 

Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels, stimulates the release of certain hormones, and acts as a signalling molecule that helps reduce oxidative stress, prevents platelet clumping, and even helps regulate blood pressure. In turn, the body is better able to bring important nutrients to areas that need it the most, such as a recent injury. 

Yet, what goes up, must come down. When using an infrared sauna, there are a few potential risks and dangers that you should be cautious about.

Potential Risks and How to Mitigate Them

While infrared saunas are generally considered very safe, some individuals may be more prone to risk than others. Ensuring you don’t spend an excessive amount of time in the sauna per session is further vital to thwart dehydration and heat strain. 

Below, we take a closer look at these potential risks.

Dehydration

Infrared saunas heat up the body, often causing the user to sweat. As a result, it’s easy to become dehydrated unless we properly replenish our water reserves. 

Before every sauna session, ensure you are properly hydrated. Drink water before, during, and after your session. This means taking a water bottle with you into the sauna—or at the very least, having a glass before and a glass ready for afterward.

If you feel thirsty, dizzy, or lightheaded, step out of the sauna and hydrate. These could potentially be the first signs of dehydration, and remaining in the sauna may lead to a life-threatening situation.

Heat Strain

Heat stress happens when our body is overwhelmed and struggles to cool itself. Signs of heat strain and heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, rapid pulse, cramping, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. This is more likely to happen when spending excessive time in the sauna. 

Recognising these signs and their initial onset is important to avoid further complications. If heating of the body continues, life-threatening scenarios, such as organ failure, may occur. 

EMFs

Infrared saunas generally omit low and safe EMF levels (Electromagnetic Fields). The truth is that we are exposed to EMFs every day from our electronic devices. In comparison, an infrared sauna isn’t a particular cause for concern.

EMFs are only considered dangerous at high levels. Additionally, studies have yet to solidify the dangerous effects of EMFs, meaning more research is needed.

Other Concerns

Infrared saunas are further considered safe for those with silicone implants. However, if you have breast implants and regularly participate in infrared sauna sessions, it’s recommended to check in regularly with your surgeon or doctor to ensure that they aren’t being negatively impacted by the high heat.

Lastly, individuals with heart conditions, bleeding disorders, respiratory illnesses, kidney disease, high blood pressure, or pregnant individuals should likely avoid using an infrared sauna. Discuss your options with your doctor to determine if this wellness regime is right for you. 

Benefits of Infrared Saunas

While the risks above may sound daunting, rest assured that using an infrared sauna regularly comes with heaps of health benefits, including the following. 

Detoxification

Research suggests that sweating may help detoxify mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and lead. Sweating may also alleviate the body of other toxins to some degree. 

In turn, this takes some burden off of the liver, allowing it to perform its hundreds of jobs properly. This may also promote better immune health, keeping you healthy.

Improved Circulation

One of the most well-known benefits of infrared sauna therapy is its ability to increase blood flow. Research has even begun to explore infrared sauna usage in relation to cardiovascular treatments for this very reason. 

Increased blood flow is associated with various health benefits, including enhanced healing, improved immune responses, reduced inflammation, and improved blood pressure.

Reduced Joint Pain and Improved Mobility

Studies show those with arthritis had improved joint pain with regular infrared sauna usage. A recent 2022 study even indicated that infrared saunas may have advantages for various chronic musculoskeletal conditions, such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, and sports injuries.

By reducing pain symptoms associated with these conditions, individuals can move more easily and gain increased independence—particularly those in aging demographics.

Safety Precautions and Best Practices

Overall, infrared saunas are safe and easy to use – as long as you’re following proper guidelines. It’s recommended to spend between 20-45 minutes in the sauna per session and participate in at least three to four sessions per week. However, some individuals enjoy sauna sessions every day.

The number of sessions you do each week may depend on your schedule and lifestyle. For beginners, it might be best to start with two to four sessions a week, keeping them closer to 20 minutes or less. This allows time for the body to acclimatise properly. 

Additional infrared safety precautions include:

• Staying properly hydrated before, during, and after your session.
• Avoiding alcohol before and immediately after your session.
• Paying attention to any signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
• Wearing loose clothes or a bathing suit to avoid overheating.
• Removing lotions, make-up, or moisturisers that may irritate the skin by having a shower before each session.

Debunking Myths: Infrared Saunas and Cancer

While infrared saunas mimic the light from the sun, they don’t omit ultraviolet (UV) rays. In fact, whereas excessive UV rays exposure may lead to an increased cancer risk, infrared rays may be an effective treatment for reducing cancerous cells in the body. While more research is needed, initial studies show much promise in this field of study.

Conclusion

Infrared saunas have the power to support overall well-being; it’s no secret why they’re becoming more and more popular worldwide. However, knowing the risks and taking proper precautions can help you avoid negative repercussions and reap the advantages of infrared saunas for many years to come. 

At Sauna Float ACT, we believe in transparency—guiding you toward making an informed decision that’s best for you and your health. Weighing the risks versus the benefits of infrared sauna use can help you decide if this wellness routine is right for you.

Ready to experience the wonders of infrared saunas? Book your first session with Sauna Float ACT today!

FAQs

Check out some of the frequently asked questions regarding infrared sauna dangers below.

What are the potential dangers of using infrared saunas?

The biggest dangers of using infrared saunas involve becoming overheated and dehydrated. This is why it’s important to ensure you drink plenty of fluids before and after any sauna session.

How can one prevent dehydration while using an infrared sauna?

Always drink plenty of water before and after your sauna sessions. You can even go the extra mile by bringing a glass of water or a water bottle into every session.

What is EMF radiation, and how is it related to infrared saunas?

EMFs are electromagnetic fields emitted by infrared saunas at very low levels. Because these levels are so low, it’s considered very safe to use an infrared sauna. In fact, you likely experience more EMF exposure from the electronic devices you use throughout your day.

Are there specific health conditions that should be cautious of infrared sauna use?

Individuals with heart conditions, bleeding disorders, respiratory illnesses, kidney disease, or high blood pressure should avoid infrared saunas. Pregnant individuals should also not use infrared saunas. 

Those with silicone implants may want to also discuss the safety of an infrared sauna with their surgeon or doctor before usage.

What precautions should individuals with silicone implants take?

If you have silicone implants, it’s likely a good idea to discuss using an infrared sauna with your surgeon beforehand. You may also want to do your due diligence and research your specific implants and their sensitivity to heat. 

Are infrared saunas safe for pregnant women?

It’s generally advised for pregnant women to avoid high heat, including infrared sauna sessions since this can be harmful to the fetus.

How can one ensure maximum safety while using an infrared sauna?

Staying hydrated is the number one thing you can do to ensure your safety when using an infrared sauna. If you’ve recently done strenuous or intense exercise, waiting at least 30 minutes before your sauna session is advised. 

Can infrared saunas cause or prevent cancer?

Infrared saunas will not cause cancer. In fact, there is a small amount of evidence that they may help prevent cancer. While more studies are needed, the initial research is promising.

How often and for how long should one use an infrared sauna?

It’s recommended to use an infrared sauna for 20-45 minutes two to four times a week. However, beginners should start with twice a week and 20 minutes or less. From there, you can gradually increase your time and frequency.

What is the ideal temperature setting for an infrared sauna?

The ideal temperature for an infrared sauna is between 120-140℉ or 50-60℃.

How to differentiate between infrared radiation and ultraviolet radiation?

The wavelengths of infrared radiation are longer than ultraviolet radiation. Infrared radiation is linked with heat, whereas ultraviolet radiation can harm the skin and cause burns.

Are there any specific etiquettes to follow while using infrared saunas?

Especially in association with public infrared saunas, it’s recommended to wear a bathing suit and avoid any fragrant lotions or perfumes, which may irritate the skin.

How does the heat from infrared saunas impact the human body?

The heat from infrared rays warms the body, leading to a quicker heart rate, sweating, and blood vessel dilation. In turn, this can lead to various health benefits, including detoxification, improved immunity, reduced joint pain, and decreased stress.

What are the signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in a sauna?

The signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in a sauna include heavy sweatiness, feeling faint, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, muscle cramps, and weakness. 

If you notice any of these signs, remove yourself from the sauna and properly hydrate yourself. If these symptoms worsen, seek out immediate medical attention.

How do infrared saunas impact skin health?

Since infrared saunas cause the body to sweat, this can impact the skin in various ways. For instance, it can help remove impurities, cleanse the pores, and shed dead skin cells. In turn, this can enhance the tone, texture, and overall appearance of the skin.

Are there any age constraints for using infrared saunas?

Infrared saunas are not recommended for children under six years of age. Over the age of six, children may enjoy infrared saunas for up to 20 minutes at a time. 

However, many health experts advise not allowing children under the age of 12 to use an infrared sauna. After the age of 12, the biggest consideration is overall health status as to whether or not using an infrared sauna is appropriate.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941775

Infrared and Skin: Friend or Foe – PMC 

Multi-watt near-infrared light therapy as a neuroregenerative treatment for traumatic brain injury – PMC 

Dietary supplements for improving nitric-oxide synthesis – PMC. 

Heat Stroke – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. 

Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury in Sweat: A Systematic Review – PMC 

Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors – PMC 

Infrared sauna in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. A pilot study showing good tolerance, short-term improvement of pain and stiffness, and a trend towards long-term beneficial effects – PubMed 

Infrared Radiation in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review – PMC 

The effects inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells by far-infrared radiation (FIR) are controlled by the basal expression level of heat shock protein (HSP) 70A – PMC**