Red Light Therapy Overview

Last updated: June 8, 2026

Red Light Therapy Overview

Red light therapy is a powerful addition to your wellness routine. When combined with infrared heat, it creates a full-spectrum experience designed to support recovery, relaxation, and overall vitality.

This article outlines which models include red light therapy, compatibility details, and how to use it properly inside your sauna.


Which Sun Home saunas include red light therapy?

Red light therapy is available in select Sun Home models.

Built-in (standard):

  • Pod Sauna

  • Eclipse Red Light & Infrared Sauna

Both of these models include an integrated red light therapy panel as part of the standard design.

Available as an add-on:

  • Luminar Outdoor Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna

The Luminar is available in 2-person and 5-person configurations and offers a compatible Red Light Therapy panel add-on.

Not compatible with red light therapy:

  • Equinox

  • Solstice

At this time, the Equinox and Solstice models do not include red light therapy and do not have a compatible attachment.


Why combine red light therapy with infrared heat?

The benefit of red light therapy inside a sauna comes from the combination of infrared heat and red light exposure.

Infrared heat increases circulation and tissue responsiveness.
Red light supports cellular energy processes and recovery.

Together, they work synergistically. The goal is not maximizing proximity to the light, but rather creating a combined therapeutic environment where heat and light amplify one another.


How the Luminar Red Light Therapy panel is designed to work

For Luminar customers who select the RLT add-on, the panel is intentionally door-mounted. The placement is part of the therapeutic design.

1. Door placement is intentional

The red light is mounted on the door so it projects forward into the cabin and across the body. This positioning allows it to reach large surface areas such as:

  • Legs

  • Torso

  • Arms

Because it is not blocked by benches or backrests, the light distributes effectively throughout the cabin.


2. Remain seated during use

The intended position is seated comfortably on the bench, generally facing toward the door.

Standing directly in front of the panel is not required and is not the intended use. From the seated position, your body is typically well within an effective therapeutic range.

The enclosed cabin and reflective wood surfaces help distribute light throughout the space.


3. Distance guidance inside a sauna

Unlike open-air red light panels, exact distance is less critical inside an enclosed sauna environment.

Inside the Luminar:

  • Red wavelengths disperse and reflect throughout the cabin

  • Effective exposure occurs across a wider range of distances

  • You do not need to be exactly 20 cm from the panel to receive benefit

The design accounts for the enclosed, reflective environment of the sauna.


Best practices for using red light therapy

For optimal results:

  • Sit on the bench as you normally would

  • Angle your body slightly toward the light source during part of your session for more direct exposure

  • Alternate posture throughout your session, upright, slight forward lean, or legs extended, to vary which areas receive more direct light

  • Typical sessions of 10 to 20 minutes are sufficient when combined with sauna heat

Consistency matters more than proximity. Regular use will provide better results than occasional long sessions.


What are the benefits of red light therapy?

Red light therapy is commonly used to support:

  • Skin appearance and anti-aging support

  • Blemishes and acne

  • Improved sleep quality

  • Reduced inflammation

  • Cellular recovery and function

When integrated into your infrared sauna routine, it becomes a streamlined wellness practice that supports whole-body recovery.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to sit directly in front of the panel?

No. The intended use is seated comfortably within the sauna. The enclosed cabin allows light to distribute effectively across the body.


How long should I use red light therapy?

Most sessions range from 10 to 20 minutes when combined with infrared heat. Many customers incorporate it into their regular sauna sessions several times per week.


Can I add red light therapy to an Equinox or Solstice sauna?

No. At this time, the Equinox and Solstice models do not include red light therapy and do not support a compatible add-on.


Can the Luminar be installed indoors?

Yes. Although it is designed for outdoor use, many customers install the Luminar indoors when space and electrical requirements allow.


Is red light therapy safe for everyone?

While red light therapy is generally a safe and beneficial contribution to your wellness routine, the following individuals should consult a physician before using red light therapy:

  •  Individuals with light sensitivity, photosensitive disorders, or those taking medications that increase light sensitivity
  •  Individuals with implanted medical devices
  • Pregnant women, children, and individuals with existing medical conditions