Infrared light is the invisible part of the sun’s spectrum that can penetrate human tissue. It is felt as warmth on the skin. Unlike UV rays, infrared wavelengths are beneficial — hospitals even use infrared to keep premature babies warm.
Heat has been used to help heal the body for thousands of years. A good sweat burns calories and supports detoxification. Combine heat with infrared light, a quiet room, and calming music, and you have infrared sauna therapy.
How infrared saunas differ
Infrared saunas differ from traditional hot-rock or steam saunas because the light penetrates your skin directly without heating the surrounding air as aggressively. Your core temperature rises quickly, but many people feel warm, dry, and comfortable — not sweltering and humid.
That lower ambient heat can make sessions easier to tolerate if you struggle with conventional saunas.
What clients and researchers report
Proponents cite benefits such as improved metabolism, reduced inflammation, pain relief, relaxed muscles, better circulation, stress relief, and support for the body’s natural detox pathways. Evidence is still evolving, but the Mayo Clinic notes several studies on chronic conditions — including high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, headache, type 2 diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis — found some evidence of benefit, while calling for larger, more rigorous trials.
No adverse effects have been widely reported with infrared saunas. At minimum, most users describe stress relief, relaxation, and the feeling of sunbathing without UV damage — especially welcome during long Midwest winters.
The best way to know if infrared sauna therapy fits your goals is to try a session. We use an upgraded Sunlighten infrared sauna with red light therapy at our Bloomington studio. Learn about our infrared sauna or view sauna pricing.
Questions or ready to book? Call 309-662-2900 or schedule online. 3807 G.E. Road, Suite 3, Bloomington, IL 61704