Are you looking to transform your home sauna into a complete wellness sanctuary? Red light sauna accessories—from therapy panels and chromotherapy lighting to aromatherapy diffusers and ergonomic supports—can deepen relaxation and accelerate recovery without requiring a complete sauna upgrade.
This comprehensive guide helps you choose the right accessories for your infrared sauna, whether you own an indoor cabin, outdoor infrared sauna, or sauna blanket.
Key Takeaways
- Red light sauna accessories include red light therapy panels and towers, chromotherapy lighting, aromatherapy diffusers, ergonomic supports, and monitoring tools that deepen relaxation and accelerate recovery.
- SunHomeSaunas offers premium infrared and traditional saunas plus compatible red light accessories designed for low-EMF infrared sauna at-home use with plug-and-play convenience.
- The right accessories can enhance benefits like skin health, muscle recovery, mood regulation, and detoxification without requiring a complete sauna upgrade.
- Combining red light therapy with infrared heat creates synergistic effects—boosting circulation from heat while stimulating cellular repair from targeted light wavelengths.
What Are Red Light Sauna Accessories?
Red light sauna accessories are add-ons specifically designed to bring red and near-infrared light into a sauna environment or to support those sessions with enhanced comfort, ambiance, and functionality. These accessories transform a standard heat therapy session into a multi-modal home sauna wellness experience.
Understanding the distinction between your sauna's core heating system and dedicated light therapy devices is essential. A standard infrared sauna heater produces far infrared heat—electromagnetic waves in the 5-15 micrometer range that penetrate deeply into tissues, raising core body temperature and inducing sweat.
Red light therapy devices, on the other hand, emit targeted wavelengths of visible red light (typically 630-660 nm) and near-infrared light (810-850 nm) that work through an entirely different mechanism called photobiomodulation, stimulating cellular energy production without generating significant heat themselves.
These accessories can be integrated into SunHomeSaunas infrared cabins, traditional saunas, or used as external panels alongside a sauna blanket or cold plunge tub home setup.
The flexibility means you can build a comprehensive home sauna experience incrementally, adding layers of therapeutic benefit as your budget and space allow.
The main categories of red light sauna accessories covered in this guide include:
- Red light towers and panels – Dedicated photobiomodulation devices for skin, muscle, and cellular health.
- Chromotherapy lighting – Colored LED systems for mood and ambiance.
- Aromatherapy tools – Diffusers and essential oil accessories for breathing support and relaxation.
- Ergonomic comfort pieces – Backrests, pillows, and bench supports for longer sessions.
- Monitoring devices – Timers, thermostats, and wellness trackers.
- Cleaning and protection accessories – Towels, mats, and maintenance tools.
What Are the Core Red Light Sauna Accessories to Buy First?

If you're wondering what to prioritize when building out your sauna accessory collection, this section cuts straight to the essentials.
The Four Priority Accessories Most Home Sauna Owners Should Consider First
|
Accessory |
Primary Benefit |
Best For |
|
Red light therapy tower/panel |
Skin rejuvenation, muscle recovery, cellular repair |
Athletes, beauty-focused users, and anyone seeking recovery support |
|
Chromotherapy lighting kit |
Mood enhancement, spa ambiance, relaxation |
Evening wind-down sessions, meditation, stress relief |
|
Ergonomic backrest or bench support |
Comfort during longer sessions, spinal alignment |
Users planning 20-30+ minute sessions regularly |
|
Heat-safe aromatherapy diffuser |
Breathing support, enhanced relaxation, sensory experience |
Those seeking a full spa-like atmosphere |
SunHomeSaunas customers typically start with a red light tower or panel that can be mounted inside or stand adjacent to an infrared sauna, then layer in comfort and ambiance accessories over time.
This approach lets you test what resonates with your body and routine before committing to a complete accessory ecosystem.
How Do Red Light Therapy Panels and Towers Work in Saunas?
Red light panels and towers represent the most significant therapeutic upgrade you can add to your luxury home sauna experience. When you combine the deep-penetrating warmth of infrared heat with the cellular-level stimulation of red and near-infrared light, you create a synergistic environment where increased blood flow from heat exposure enhances the delivery and effectiveness of photobiomodulation.
The science behind this combination is compelling. Infrared heat raises core body temperature by 1-2°C, boosting peripheral circulation by 200-300%. Meanwhile, red and near-infrared light photons are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase in your cells' mitochondria, potentially increasing ATP (cellular energy) production by up to 150% according to some research.
This dual approach means your muscles, skin, and tissues receive both enhanced nutrient delivery and direct cellular stimulation in a single session.
Key features to evaluate when selecting a red light device for sauna use:
- Dual wavelengths – Look for devices offering both 660 nm (red) and 850 nm (near-infrared) for surface and deeper tissue benefits.
- Low-EMF design – Essential for maintaining the clean electromagnetic environment that defines quality saunas.
- Flicker-free LEDs – Reduce eye strain and create a more relaxing experience.
- Sauna-compatible housing – Built-in cooling systems that prevent LED overheating in temperatures up to 140-160°F.
- Durable materials – Non-toxic materials that won't off-gas in high heat.
Mounting and Placement Options
Mounting and placement options vary based on your sauna room configuration:
- Freestanding towers – Position on the floor, ideal for full-body coverage in larger spaces.
- Wall-mounted panels – Install at bench height for targeted treatment while seated.
- Door-mounted units – Perfect for compact 1-2 person cabins where interior space is limited.
For session guidelines, most users find 10-20 minutes of light exposure within 6-18 inches of the device, repeated 3-5 days per week, delivers noticeable results.
SunHomeSaunas positions red light accessories as plug-and-play upgrades for customers who already own indoor saunas, sauna blankets, or dedicated recovery rooms.
How Do You Choose the Right Red Light Device for Your Sauna?
Selecting the right red light device requires matching the unit's specifications to your space, electrical setup, and wellness goals:
- Size considerations – Small vertical panels work well for 1-2 person cabins where you'll target face, chest, or legs; taller towers suit 3-4 person saunas or larger home spa rooms where full-body coverage matters.
- Power and irradiance – Choose output strong enough to be effective at comfortable treatment distances (typically 50-100 mW/cm² at 6 inches) without generating excess heat.
- Electrical requirements – Most home-use devices run on standard 110-120V outlets; verify wattage requirements and plan safe cable routing.
- Third-party testing – Prioritize systems with published EMF data and heat tolerance ratings.
- Cooling systems – Quality sauna-specific units include internal fans or heat sinks that prevent LED efficiency drops during extended sessions.
Best Practices for Using Red Light Inside a Sauna
Establishing safe, consistent routines maximizes results while protecting your health and equipment.
- Start with lower session times (10-15 minutes) and moderate intensity when first combining heat therapy with red light.
- Experiment with timing: some users prefer red light at the session's beginning for alertness and mood elevation, while others use it at the end for calm recovery.
- Practice eye safety by using soft eye shields or simply closing your eyes when lights are positioned at face level.
- Maintain adequate hydration before, during, and after combined sessions.
- Consult a healthcare professional before starting if you have light-sensitive conditions, take photosensitizing medications, or have implanted medical devices.
What Are Chromotherapy and Ambient Lighting Upgrades?
Chromotherapy—visible color light therapy using blue, green, amber, red, and other hues—offers a different therapeutic approach than targeted red light panels. While red light therapy focuses on specific wavelengths for deep tissue penetration (up to 5 cm) and cellular stimulation, chromotherapy primarily affects surface-level energy balancing and mood through the psychological and physiological effects of color exposure.
Add-on chromotherapy kits or LED strips can be installed in the ceiling or behind ergonomic backrests of SunHomeSaunas units, creating a spa-like ambiance that transforms your sauna room into a true relaxation sanctuary.
Practical Color Suggestions Based on Session Goals
|
Color |
Best Time |
Effect |
|
Soft blue/green |
Evening sessions |
Promotes calm, supports wind-down before sleep |
|
Warm amber/red |
Morning sessions |
Energizing, warming, and increasing alertness |
|
Rotating colors |
Meditation sessions |
Creates dynamic, immersive atmosphere |
|
Deep indigo |
Late night |
Maximum relaxation, supports melatonin production |
Control options range from simple controls with handheld remotes to app-based dimmers featuring presets like "relax," "focus," or "recovery." Most systems mount controls within easy reach of the bench so you can fine-tune colors without leaving your seated position.
One underappreciated benefit: chromotherapy can be used alone on rest days when you want ambient warmth and relaxation without committing to a full heat or intense red light session, extending the daily value of your sauna space.
Combining Chromotherapy with Red Light Sessions
Layering chromotherapy with targeted red light creates a multi-sensory experience that addresses both mood and physical recovery simultaneously.
- Use stable red or amber chromotherapy as a background while a targeted red light panel works on specific areas.
- Many users prefer cooler ceiling colors (blue or green) while keeping focused red and near-infrared light on body areas needing attention.
- Experiment with different color, heat, and time combinations over 2-4 weeks, keeping a simple journal to track changes in sleep quality.
- SunHomeSaunas customers often run chromotherapy for the full 20-30-minute heat session while activating brighter red light panels for only 10-15 minutes.
How Do Aromatherapy and Breath-Support Accessories Work?

Aromatherapy pairs naturally with red light and heat therapy, adding a third sensory dimension that supports breathing, deepens relaxation, and creates the complete "spa feel" many home sauna owners seek.
The warm, enclosed environment of a sauna naturally diffuses essential oils more effectively than room-temperature spaces.
Specific aromatherapy accessories designed for sauna environments include:
- Stainless-steel or heat-safe diffusers – Designed to withstand high temperatures without degrading.
- Essential oil bowls for traditional sauna stoves – Allow gentle evaporation when water is added to hot stones.
- Wall-mounted inhalation pods – Purpose-built for infrared cabins where direct heat isn't applied to the accessory.
Recommended Essential Oils for 2025 Wellness Trends
- Eucalyptus and peppermint – Clear breathing passages, invigorate the senses, ideal for morning or post-workout sessions.
- Lavender and chamomile – Calming properties perfect for nighttime sessions focused on sleep preparation.
- Citrus blends (orange, lemon, bergamot) – Uplifting and energizing for morning routines.
- Frankincense – Grounding, meditative, excellent for focused breathing exercises.
Basic safety guidelines ensure you protect both yourself and your sauna:
- Use only a few drops of high-quality essential oils per session.
- Avoid direct skin contact with undiluted oils.
- Ventilate the sauna between strong-scented sessions.
- Choose non-toxic, low-VOC aromatherapy options that align with clean materials.
Integrating Aromatherapy with Red Light and Infrared Heat
Creating intentional "stacks" of complementary modalities can amplify your wellness routine:
Recovery Stack (Post-Training)
- Temperature: 120-130°F infrared heat.
- Light: Low, steady red light exposure on target muscle groups.
- Scent: Eucalyptus in a diffuser.
- Duration: 15-20 minutes.
- Goal: Accelerate muscle recovery, reduce delayed onset muscle soreness.
Sleep Stack (Evening Wind-Down)
- Temperature: Moderate 110-120°F warmth.
- Light: Dim chromotherapy (blue/indigo) with gentle red light exposure.
- Scent: Lavender or chamomile.
- Duration: 20-25 minutes, ending 1-2 hours before bed.
- Goal: Signal body to prepare for rest, support natural melatonin production.
Important cautions:
- Never apply aromatherapy oils directly to heating elements or LED casings.
- Clean up oil residue promptly to protect wood and components.
- Anyone with asthma or scent sensitivities should test oils in very small amounts first.
What Comfort and Ergonomic Accessories Should You Consider?
Comfort accessories serve a crucial but often overlooked function: they help you stay in the sauna longer and more consistently. Since benefits from red light and heat therapy accumulate over weeks and months of regular sessions, anything that makes 20-30 minute sessions more enjoyable directly supports your long-term results.
Ergonomic upgrades to consider:
- Contoured backrests – S-shaped wooden supports that maintain spinal alignment and reduce strain during longer sessions.
- Neck pillows – Heat-resistant options that support the head during reclined relaxation.
- Foot benches – Elevate legs for improved circulation and comfort.
- Adjustable benches – Align your body optimally with the red light panel's coverage area.
Textiles and protection items:
- Organic cotton sauna towels – Absorb sweat while protecting wood surfaces from moisture and body oils.
- Seat covers – Washable barriers between skin and bench that simplify cleaning.
- Non-slip floor mats – Prevent accidents when stepping in and out of the hot space.
- Heat and light-tolerant headrests – Won't degrade from repeated exposure to high temperatures.
These items also protect the sauna interior from sweat, essential oils, and skincare product residue, extending the life of SunHomeSaunas' premium woods and heaters.
New buyers often find bundling a red light add-on with at least one ergonomic accessory—such as a backrest plus neck pillow—makes sessions more enjoyable from day one.
Temperature, Positioning, and Session Length Tips
Getting the most from your combined heat and light setup requires attention to a few practical details:
- Temperature sweet spot – Moderate temperatures of 110-135°F work well for sessions combining red light accessories with infrared heat.
- Ideal bench distance – Sit 6-18 inches from a red light panel, with the device positioned at roughly the level of the area being targeted.
- Suggested schedules – 3-5 combined sessions per week for 15-30 minutes each, adjusting based on personal tolerance and goals.
- Hydration protocol – Drink water before and after sessions to support detoxification through sweat and replace fluids lost.
- Transition safely – Stand up slowly when finishing, as the combination of heat and light can increase circulation significantly.
What Tech and Monitoring Accessories Support Your Sauna Routine?
Simple tech tools make red light sauna sessions safer, smarter, and easier to repeat consistently. While the core experience is about disconnecting from devices and focusing on your body, a few strategic accessories support better outcomes.
Time and safety accessories:
- Digital timers with loud alerts that cut through the relaxation of a hot session.
- Programmable thermostats for maintaining a consistent cabin temperature.
- Auto-shutoff outlets rated for high-heat environments.
Wellness tracking tools:
- Wearables that monitor heart rate or HRV (heart rate variability) before and after sessions.
- Thermometer and hygrometer combos to log cabin conditions.
- Simple journal apps for noting session parameters and how you feel afterward.
EMF and electrical considerations:
- Optional EMF meters for users who want to verify their space meets low-EMF standards.
- Surge protectors rated for sauna use, placed outside the hot cabin.
- Cable management solutions that route power cords safely away from heat sources.
SunHomeSaunas designs core products with integrated controls and low-EMF heaters, so additional tech accessories typically focus on personal metrics and habit tracking rather than compensating for design limitations.
How Do You Clean and Maintain Red Light Sauna Accessories?
Keeping red light and sauna accessories clean preserves performance, extends equipment life, and maintains the hygienic environment essential for skin health and breathing.
Recommended cleaning items:
- Non-toxic spray cleaners formulated for high-heat wood environments.
- Microfiber cloths for wiping light panel surfaces without scratching.
- Dedicated sauna-safe wood cleaners for benches and ergonomic backrests.
- Soft brushes for reaching corners and crevices in traditional sauna stone beds.
Simple post-session routine:
- Wipe down benches, backrests, and light panel surfaces after each use.
- Hang towels to dry outside the sauna to prevent mildew.
- Leave the door slightly open for air circulation as the space cools.
- Perform a deeper clean weekly if using the sauna frequently.
Using separate, washable towel sets designated just for sauna use protects wood surfaces and avoids staining from skincare products. Proper maintenance helps red light devices and sauna interiors last years longer, protecting your investment in premium materials.
How Do You Choose Red Light Sauna Accessories for Your Space and Goals?

The best accessory setup depends on your available space, primary wellness priorities, and budget. Rather than buying everything at once, most successful home sauna owners build their ecosystem strategically.
Goal-Based Accessory Selection
|
Primary Goal |
Priority Accessories |
Secondary Additions |
|
Beauty and skin focus |
Face-height red light panel, chromotherapy |
Quality towels, gentle aromatherapy |
|
Athletic recovery |
Full-body tower, ergonomic bench, and backrest |
Cooling system, HRV tracker |
|
Stress and sleep |
Aromatherapy diffuser, soft color lighting |
Neck pillow, moderate-heat settings |
|
General wellness |
Mid-size red light panel, basic comfort items |
Timer, cleaning kit |
Space constraints matter:
- Compact apartment saunas – Wall-mounted panels and minimal accessories that don't crowd the interior.
- Infrared sauna blanket users – Consider portable red light panels used before or after blanket sessions.
- Small traditional barrel saunas – Freestanding towers positioned just outside the door.
- Larger dedicated spa rooms – Full accessory ecosystems including multiple light panels, aromatherapy, chromotherapy, and extensive comfort accessories.
Budget tiers:
- Starter ($200-500) – One primary accessory like a quality red light panel, plus basic towels.
- Enthusiast ($500-1,500) – Red light tower, ergonomic backrest, aromatherapy diffuser, and chromotherapy kit.
- Complete home spa ($1,500+) – Full integration of all accessory categories with premium materials and smart controls.
The best sauna blankets and home sauna setups become even more valuable when you layer in thoughtfully chosen add-ons.
Elevate Your Home Sauna Experience with the Right Accessories
Red light sauna accessories transform standard heat therapy sessions into comprehensive wellness experiences that support skin health, muscle recovery, stress relief, and overall wellbeing. Whether you're starting with a single red light panel or building a complete home spa ecosystem, thoughtful accessory selection amplifies the benefits you receive from every session.
Ready to enhance your sauna with premium accessories?
Visit SunHomeSaunas today to explore the best red light sauna accessories and our broad range of wellness solutions. You can also contact our team for personalized recommendations based on your space and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add red light accessories to a sauna I already own?
Most standalone red light panels and towers work with existing infrared or traditional saunas, provided the device is rated for higher temperatures and has adequate ventilation or cooling. Before purchasing, check your sauna's interior dimensions, bench layout, and electrical outlet location to ensure compatibility.
If your sauna interior runs extremely hot (above approximately 150°F), some users position red light panels just outside the door, sitting or standing partially outside during the light therapy portion of their session.
Are red light sauna accessories safe to use every day?
Many people use red light therapy and infrared saunas several times per week, and some incorporate lighter routines daily. However, individual tolerance varies based on factors like skin sensitivity, overall health, and how many people share the sauna.
Starting with 2-3 sessions weekly and gradually increasing frequency while monitoring your response—sleep quality, energy levels, skin condition, recovery speed—offers a sensible approach. Users with medical conditions, pregnancy, or implanted devices should consult their healthcare provider before beginning frequent combined heat and light sessions.
Do I need both red light and infrared heat, or is one enough?
Infrared saunas and red light therapy work via different mechanisms and offer distinct but complementary benefits. Infrared focuses on deep heat penetration and circulation enhancement through raising core temperature. Red and near-infrared light focuses on cellular signaling and affects tissues from the surface down to mid-depth.
Many SunHomeSaunas customers see excellent results from infrared heat alone, then add red light accessories later to target specific skin, joint, or performance goals. Choose based on your main priority and budget, knowing that red light accessories can be added to an existing setup at any time.
Will red light accessories increase my sauna's EMF levels?
High-quality red light devices are engineered to be low-EMF at typical treatment distances. SunHomeSaunas prioritizes low-EMF engineering across our saunas and compatible accessories, with many devices tested to emit under 3 mG at 6 inches from the user.
When shopping, look for brands that publish EMF test data. Position devices so you maintain some distance from power supplies and cables during sessions. Users who are particularly EMF-conscious can verify levels with a consumer EMF meter around their complete setup for peace of mind.
How long before I notice benefits from red light sauna accessories?
Response timelines vary by individual and by the specific benefits you're seeking. Some users notice immediate changes in relaxation, muscle looseness, or sense of wellbeing after their first few sessions. Skin-related improvements like increased elasticity or reduced fine lines typically require several weeks of consistent use.
Give a consistent routine (3-5 sessions per week) at least 4-8 weeks before evaluating results. Tracking sleep quality, energy levels, or recovery metrics in a simple log helps you identify subtle improvements you might otherwise miss.
References
- National Institute of Health – “Can Infrared Light Really Be Doing What We Claim it is Doing?”
- WebMED – “Chromotherapy: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, and Interactions.”
- Clearlight – “Red Light Therapy Vs Chromotherapy: What’s the Difference?”
- HomeSauna – “What is a Home Sauna? Complete Beginner’s Guide.”


