Beauty Trends

The Infrared Sauna

A new take on an old form of relaxation

By Virginia Olson

Improving heart health, soothing sore muscles, finding relaxation and fighting illness are just some of the reasons people are turning to infrared saunas, a trendy spa treatment. But are infrared saunas worth the hype and the cost?

To learn more about this modern twist to a traditional sauna, Tiffany Hansen, owner of 3 Degrees Infrared Sauna Studio, provides some insights and answers to some common questions people have.

What are infrared saunas, and how do they compare to the “old school” saunas?

Unlike traditional saunas, infrared saunas don’t use steam. Instead, they create light rays that produce heat. As a result, the body is heated from the inside raising the core body temperature causing you to sweat.

However, like a traditional sauna, there is the “experience” because it produces reactions like those from moderate exercises such as intense sweating, increased heart rate, and burned calories.

Tiffany says infrared saunas are a lot “cooler.”

“When people hear the word “sauna,” they tend to think of steam saunas. But infrared saunas are so much better because they raise an individual’s core body temperature by three degrees with far less intense heat. They also provide a wide variety of benefits where the “old school’ saunas just heat your skin and make you feel warm.”

What are some quick tips for using infrared saunas?

Tiffany offers these recommendations:

Make sure you don’t eat a big meal before you go in. That way your body isn’t spending the whole session trying to digest that big meal.

If you are comfortable, go nude. It is best to expose as much of your body to infrared heaters as you can.

Drink plenty of water before, during, and after so you are ready to flush toxins and replenish your body afterward.

Are infrared saunas worth trying?

“Absolutely,” says Tiffany. “People feel better after using them because there are so many benefits that will add great value to their life. We have so many people say they have tried it just once and are now in love.” n