Comparing Infrared Sauna and Red-Light Therapy: What Should You Choose?

Today, people are increasingly seeking to integrate natural therapies into their wellness routine. Two of the most popular options are infrared saunas and red-light therapy. Of course, these therapies contribute to general wellness in various ways while ensuring users reap unique benefits. But how do they differ from each other? Here is a detailed comparison. 

The Basics of the Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas rely on infrared light to directly heat the body. Infrared heat penetrates the joints, muscles, and skin, offering deep, healing heat that can promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, and relieve tension.

The temperatures in an infrared sauna range between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it can prompt the production of sweat that’s two or three times what a traditional sauna stimulates.

The best-infrared saunas provide a natural therapy that can benefit people with chronic stiffness or pain and athletes seeking to alleviate muscle soreness and enhance their performance. 

How Effective is Infrared Sauna Therapy?

Researchers have found that infrared saunas can play a crucial role in reducing pain and inflammation in conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis. The heat from the sauna deeply penetrates the body, boosting blood flow and enhancing the natural healing process. It is worth mentioning that infrared saunas are not ideal for everybody.

As a result, people with some health conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart-related complications, should consult their health practitioners before adopting infrared sauna therapy. 

Types of Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas are divided into various types which are:

·       Far-Infrared 

These infrared saunas use far-infrared wavelengths that penetrate the skin. Infrared lights are colorless and, therefore, invisible. Far-infrared therapy is also known as dry sauna bathing. 

·       Full Spectrum Infrared 

The full spectrum infrared sauna uses all infrared wavelength ranges. 

·       Near-Infrared

Near-infrared therapy is also known as photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT). It used near-infrared wavelengths to aid healing. Near-infrared saunas use sources in the near-infrared spectrum and visible light to enhance wound healing, regenerate tissue, reduce inflammation and pain, and promote healing. Near-infrared therapy can be administered through wearable units confined to the affected area instead of a full-body sauna. 

·       Chromotherapy

Chromotherapy incorporates colored lights in your infrared sauna, relying on the theory that some colors stimulate different responses and benefits to the body. 

The Basics of Red-Light Therapy

Also known as low-level light therapy, this remedial treatment uses specific wavelengths of low-level light to connect with the body at a cellular magnitude. The power from the low-level light penetrates the skin to prompt the generation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule critical for producing cellular energy.

Increased production of ATP often promotes skin rejuvenation while accelerating the healing process. Red light therapy is becoming popular among people searching for non-invasive and natural treatments to cater to their wellness requirements. 

How Effective is the Red-Light Therapy?

Researchers have extensively studied red light therapy to establish its impact on skin rejuvenation and healing. Their findings suggest that low-level light therapy can stimulate the body to produce collagen, a protein that provides the skin with elasticity and structure. This can enhance skin texture and tone and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. 

Difference Between Infrared Sauna and Red Light Therapy

While infrared sauna heat is not affiliated with any specific light color, some people use colored lights or chromotherapy for extra health benefits. These lights rest on a visible spectrum, have varying wavelengths, and are believed to treat various medical conditions. 

On the other hand, red light therapy relies on low-wavelength light (LED) to treat wounds, scarring, and sun-damaged skin. While the procedure can be executed in your doctor’s office, you can buy red light therapy gadgets for home use. 

Other differences include: 

• Infrared sauna therapy offers full-body benefits to promote overall wellness, while red light therapy targets specific body areas, such as the joints and face, to provide localized rejuvenation and healing.  

• Infrared saunas are ideal for people with chronic inflammation or pain while red light therapy is suitable for individuals with skin-related concerns, like wrinkles and acne.

Eventually, whether you choose an infrared sauna or red-light therapy depends on individual preferences and needs. Remember, you can integrate both therapies into your wellness routine for optimal benefits.  

What to Consider When Choosing Between Infrared Saunas and Red-Light Therapy

Choosing between infrared sauna and red light therapy can be difficult, especially because both provide unique benefits that promote general wellness. Still, considering the following factors can help you establish the option that best aligns with your preferences and needs.

·       Accessibility

How accessible is each form of therapy? An infrared sauna requires a dedicated space and can be costly to install. Meanwhile, red light therapy is accessible through handheld devices and light panels. 

·       Duration

Establish how long each therapy takes. Infrared sauna sessions often last up to an hour, while red light therapy can last anywhere between a few minutes and an hour. 

·       Distinct Wellness Needs

Ask yourself, what are my specific wellness requirements? If you want relaxation and pain relief, infrared saunas can be ideal. However, red light therapy would be the best option if you need wound healing and skin rejuvenation. 

·       Personal Comfort

Some people may feel uncomfortable in an infrared sauna, while others opt for red light therapy because it is painless and noninvasive. 

Besides these factors, it is important to:

·       Consult Your Healthcare Practitioner

Consult your healthcare specialist before incorporating infrared sauna or red-light therapy in your wellness routine, especially if you’re under medication or have underlying medical conditions. 

·       Stay Hydrated

Both infrared sauna and red-light therapy can cause dehydration. It’s important to drink sufficient water before and after your session to remain hydrated.

·       Beware of Skin Sensitivity

Some people often experience skin sensitivity or irritation when using an infrared sauna or red-light therapy. If your skin is sensitive consider starting with short sessions and increasing the intensity and duration gradually.

·       Adopt Safety Measures

When using an infrared sauna or red-light therapy, follow the manufacturer's instructions strictly. Ensure the sauna area is well-ventilated, and do not use it while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

Incorporating Infrared Sauna and Red-Light Therapy in Your Wellness Routine

The infrared sauna and red-light therapy can be valuable to your wellness journey. Using them together can offer a more comprehensive approach to general wellness. Using red light therapy before your infrared sauna session can relax your muscles while preparing your body for the heat. On the other hand, using red light therapy after your infrared sauna session can aid skin rejuvenation while promoting healing. 

Consider using red light therapy when an infrared sauna is inaccessible or when you need to target specific body areas like the joints or face. Remember, you should integrate both therapies into your wellness routine gradually and with appropriate consideration. Again, there is no tailored solution for everybody regarding wellness. Experiment with varying therapies to identify the one that best aligns with your needs. 

Finally

Infrared saunas and red-light therapy are safe but it is important to consult your health provider before incorporating them into your wellness routine. While you can use both infrared sauna and red-light therapy, you must understand how each works. While infrared saunas are ideal for detoxification and overall wellness, red light therapy is suitable for targeted treatment of specific areas of the body.

Ultimately, whether you choose an infrared sauna or red-light therapy depends on your wellness goals and personal preferences. Use the information in this article as a guide to help you make an informed decision that best aligns with your wellness and health needs.