What are the benefits of regular infrared sauna use?

Infrared therapy stimulates the circulatory system, causing the heart to beat more vigorously and blood vessels to dilate, which help cleanse the circulatory system and more fully oxygenate the body’s cells. Better blood circulation means more toxins flow from the cellular level to the skin’s surface to improve cell health, aid in muscle recovery and strengthen the immune system by raising core body temperature.

Raising core body temperature is key. Although Sunlighten saunas heat you up differently than a fever, the increased body temperature provides the same benefits, including white blood cell and T-cell production to ward off viruses. Sunlighten saunas are the only ones to have been proven to raise core body temperature by 3 degrees.

A NASA study showed that near infrared therapy, delivered by LEDs deep into body tissue, can quadruple cell health and tissue growth.¹ Several studies have shown that LEDs (like those found in our mPulse saunas) stimulate white blood cell production and collagen growth by increasing energy at the cellular level.

From a more general perspective, an Austrian study of 25 healthy subjects who regularly used saunas found they had significantly fewer episodes of common colds than those who did not. This benefit becomes more significant, especially after 14 weeks of consecutive sauna use. To fully experience the immune-strengthening benefits of a sauna, it’s recommended to use it at least twice a week throughout the year.

What are the benefits of Near, Mid and Far Infrared?

Sunlighten Near-Infrared LED Maximizes Anti-aging Benefits

Sunlighten mPulse saunas generates 880 nm near-infrared light using patented LED panels. The 880nm near-infrared can best penetrate the skin (3 mm) and activate the mitochondria to provide the most health benefits. Longer wavelengths, such as 900 – 1000 nm, do not penetrate as deep and may contribute to skin aging.

Most comforting and relaxing sweat from mid- and far-infrared

Sunlighten mid-infrared element can best penetrate tissues and joints, and generate the most heat from inside the body rather than the air. Our far infrared elements have been clinically shown to increase core body temperature up to 3℃ (~5.4℉), which is best for increasing sweat and detoxification. Our mid- and far-infrared spectra are optimized for the best absorption for relaxation and health benefits.

Sunlighten mid- and far-infrared heaters emit the infrared spectra that provide the most health benefits, both through heating and non-heating mechanisms. All infrared and sauna therapies generate heat, which provides some heat-related benefits, which are independent of non-heating benefits from specific mid- and far-infrared spectra. Sunlighten saunas do not generate unbearable levels of heat, allowing you to stay in the saunas for longer and reap more overall health benefits. Longer wavelengths, such as 900 – 1000 nm, do not penetrate as deep and may contribute to skin aging.

All of our health benefits have been either clinically shown on our heaters or are based on studies of infrared wavelengths that we precisely mimic in our heaters. Sunlighten saunas are proven up to 99% effective at emitting the highest quality and quantity of infrared heat required for delivery a full range of health benefits.

How long is a typical session? And how often can I take a session?

Most people partake in a 30-45 minute session, 3 -4 times a week, but it is safe to use every day and at whatever heat suits you best.

What health benefits are associated with infrared heat, and which have been proven and documented?

All of our health benefits have been either clinically shown on our heaters or are based on studies of infrared wavelengths that we precisely mimic in our heaters. Sunlighten saunas are proven up to 99% effective at emitting the highest quality and quantity of infrared heat required for delivery a full range of health benefits.

Does infrared technology interfere with implants (metal, silicone, etc.)?

Metal pins, rods, artificial joints or any other surgical implants generally reflect infrared waves and thus are not heated by this system. Nevertheless, you should consult your physician prior to using an infrared sauna.

How Safe is Infrared Heat?

Infrared heat is completely safe and healthy for all living things. You can be exposed to infrared light for hours without the risk of burning.  Infrared is a naturally occurring output of the sun, but does not contain the harmful UV rays associated with unprotected sunlight.  In fact, infrared heat is so safe, it is used in hospitals to warm newborn infants.

What Should I Do to Prepare for a Good Infrared Sauna Session?

 Drinking an electrolyte replacement water or sports drink is strongly recommended before and after sauna use.

What should I wear in the sauna? Can I go nude? 

 You can go nude if you would like, but be sure to put down towels to absorb your sweat. Men typically wear workout or swim trunks; women typically wear workout shorts and a tank top or sports bra. Going nude vs. wearing minimal clothing will not alter the effectiveness of your sauna session.

 I’m Taking Prescription Medications, Can I Use an Infrared Sauna? 

 Individuals who are using prescription drugs should seek the advice of their personal physician or a pharmacist for possible changes in the drugs effect when the body is exposed to infrared waves or elevated body temperature. Diuretics, barbiturates and beta-blockers may impair the body’s natural heat loss mechanisms. Anticholinergics such as amitryptaline may inhibit sweating and can predispose individuals to heat rash or to a lesser extent, heat stroke. Some over-the-counter drugs, such as antihistamines, may also cause the body to be more prone to heat stroke.