Infrared therapy has gained recognition for its numerous health benefits. It offers a natural and noninvasive approach to enhancing well-being. By harnessing the power of infrared light, this therapy penetrates deep into the body's tissues, promoting various positive health outcomes.
In this article, we take an in-depth look at infrared light - what it is, the different types, and how it can be used to improve both health and comfort. Whether for therapeutic treatments, wellness routines, or advanced heating solutions, infrared technology continues to transform the way we experience heat therapy.
What is Infrared Light?
Infrared light, also known as infrared radiation or infrared heat, is a form of electromagnetic energy that penetrates deep into the body, creating a gentle warming sensation. While the term "radiation" may sound concerning, infrared is completely safe and non-ionising, meaning it's not harmful.
Infrared light is delivered to the site of injury or inflammation at specific wavelengths, promoting cell repair and accelerating recovery. Its key characteristic is its ability to penetrate even the deeper layers of the skin, making it particularly effective for pain relief and muscle relaxation.
Infrared light spans wavelengths from 780 nanometres (nm) to 1 millimetre (mm) and is categorised into three types:
- Near-infrared (IR-A) – penetrates the skin's surface and is commonly used in medical and cosmetic treatments.
- Mid-infrared (IR-B) – reaches deeper layers of tissue and is often found in industrial and therapeutic applications.
- Far-infrared (IR-C) – delivers deep, soothing heat and is widely used in wellness settings, such as infrared saunas.
In Clearlight® infrared saunas, this effect is optimised through strategically positioned heating panels, ensuring a gentle and even warmth across the body. Unlike traditional saunas, infrared cabins operate at a more comfortable temperature, making them easier on the circulatory system while still delivering powerful therapeutic effects.
How Does Infrared Therapy Work?
Infrared therapy works by emitting infrared waves, which are absorbed by the body and converted into deep, penetrating warmth. Unlike traditional heat sources that warm the air, infrared light directly interacts with the skin and underlying tissues, triggering a range of therapeutic effects.
One of the key effects of infrared light is its ability to reach fat cells, breaking down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol through a process known as lipolysis. This supports the body’s natural detoxification process by helping to eliminate stored toxins.
In addition to its detoxifying effects, infrared light raises core body temperature, which increases heart rate and dilates blood vessels, leading to improved circulation. This enhanced blood flow allows for better oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout the body, promotes cardiovascular health, and supports the body's natural healing mechanisms. By working at a cellular level, infrared light contributes to overall well-being, offering benefits such as relaxation, pain relief, and improved metabolic function.
A two-phase study found that people who used the Clearlight Infrared Sauna three times a week for 30 minutes each session lost 4% body fat over four months.
— Weight Loss Study, Birmingham University, 2019
What Are the Health Benefits of Infrared Therapy?
Infrared therapy is revolutionising the way we approach health and wellness. By delivering deep-penetrating warmth, infrared light works at a cellular level to support natural healing, enhance circulation, and promote relaxation. Unlike conventional heat sources, which simply warm the surrounding air, infrared light gently heats the body from within, offering a range of health benefits without excessive temperatures.
Improved circulation and cardiovascular health
One of the key benefits of infrared therapy is its ability to boost blood circulation. As infrared light warms the body, it encourages blood vessels to dilate, allowing for better oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscles and organs. This process not only aids in faster recovery from physical exertion or injury but also supports overall cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure and improve vascular function (1).
Pain relief and reduced inflammation
Infrared therapy has been shown to be highly effective in soothing muscle soreness, reducing joint pain, and easing inflammation. The deep-penetrating heat helps to relax tight muscles, alleviate stiffness, and increase blood flow to affected areas, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or chronic pain conditions (2). Many people also use infrared heat therapy to aid post-workout muscle recovery, reducing soreness and speeding up healing.
Detoxification and enhanced metabolism
Unlike traditional heat sources, infrared light works at a deeper level, stimulating the body’s natural detoxification process (3). As the body warms up, sweating is triggered, releasing heavy metals, toxins, and other impurities stored in fat cells. This detoxification effect is often linked to improved skin health, enhanced immune function, and increased energy levels. Additionally, by raising core body temperature, infrared therapy can help boost metabolism, supporting weight loss and fat burning in a natural, non-strenuous way.
Better Sleep and stress reduction
Infrared therapy promotes deep relaxation, helping to reduce stress levels and improve sleep quality. The gentle heat encourages the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones, which help lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and induce a sense of calm, promoting better sleep patterns and overall mental well-being.
Faster wound healing and skin rejuvenation
Scientific studies have shown that infrared light can accelerate wound healing by promoting cell regeneration and increasing collagen production (4). This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The deep-penetrating warmth also enhances skin elasticity and hydration, contributing to a youthful and radiant complexion (5).
Supporting the immune system
By raising core temperature and stimulating circulation, infrared therapy helps to activate the body’s natural defence mechanisms. The gentle heat mimics the effects of a mild fever, which is the body’s way of fighting infections. Regular infrared sessions may contribute to stronger immunity and increased resistance to common illnesses (6).
Is Infrared Light Safe?
Yes, infrared light is safe for most people when used correctly. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage DNA and cause skin cancer, infrared light does not pose these risks. Instead, it produces gentle heat penetrating deep into the body, promoting circulation, muscle relaxation, and overall well-being.
In everyday applications such as infrared saunas, heating systems, and therapy devices, infrared light is carefully regulated to ensure safe use. When used correctly, normal exposure to infrared light does not pose any known risks.
Research has shown that infrared saunas and speciality lamps are generally safe and well-tolerated, provided they are used within recommended guidelines. Studies highlight that infrared light can deliver therapeutic benefits at controlled exposure levels (7).
To make the most of infrared therapy while avoiding potential risks like overheating or dehydration, it’s important to follow usage guidelines, stay hydrated, and pay attention to how your body responds.
Are Infrared Saunas Safe?
Yes, infrared light is safe for most people when used correctly. Unlike ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage DNA and increase the risk of skin cancer, infrared light does not pose these risks. Instead, it produces gentle, deep-penetrating warmth that supports circulation, muscle relaxation, and overall well-being.
In everyday applications such as infrared saunas, heating systems, and therapy devices, infrared light is carefully regulated to ensure safe use. When used within recommended guidelines, normal exposure does not pose any known health risks. Research indicates that infrared saunas and specialty lamps are generally well-tolerated, with controlled exposure levels delivering therapeutic benefits (8).
Infrared Sauna Contraindications
While infrared therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated, certain individuals should take precautions or consult a healthcare professional before use. People with cardiovascular conditions, ongoing chronic illnesses, or those taking medications that affect heat sensitivity should seek medical advice to ensure infrared therapy is suitable for them.
Infrared saunas are not recommended for pregnant individuals, those with hemophilia, or anyone experiencing a fever. Additionally, individuals with a reduced ability to sense heat should exercise caution, as they may be unable to recognize overheating. Alcohol consumption before or during infrared sauna use is also discouraged, as it can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature effectively.
For children under 12 and elderly individuals, infrared therapy may require additional supervision due to differences in body temperature regulation. If you experience discomfort, dizziness, or unusual symptoms during a session, it’s best to discontinue use and consult a medical professional. By following safety guidelines and listening to your body, infrared therapy can be an effective and beneficial wellness practice.
Why Choose a Clearlight® Infrared Sauna?
Clearlight® saunas redefine infrared therapy with innovative heating technology designed to deliver deep, penetrating warmth for maximum detoxification and relaxation. Unlike conventional saunas, Clearlight® infrared saunas use strategically placed infrared heaters to evenly warm the body’s core, ensuring a gentle yet effective heat therapy experience.
Featuring a unique combination of ceramic and carbon heaters, Clearlight® saunas provide superior far-infrared penetration, allowing for comfortable sweating. The full-length back wall heaters and front-facing panels ensure optimal heat distribution, making each session deeply restorative.
With innovative technology and a commitment to comfort, Clearlight® saunas offer an unparalleled wellness experience. Browse our selection of infrared saunas and experience the benefits for yourself.