Infrared massage uses infrared light, which is part of the sun's invisible spectrum. One of far infrared light's characteristics is the ability to easily penetrate human tissue, creating a natural resonance that is believed to have many beneficial properties. Massage is one of the oldest healing arts and is used today for a varied and broad range of aliments. Advocate of infrared therapy, Marilyn Barnett, author of "Hot Yoga: Energising, Rejuvenating, Healing," believes combining massage and infrared heat may have positive effects for skin, such as the reduction of scar tissue found in acne scars and stretch marks.
Acne Scars
The inflamed and blotchy appearance of acne scaring can have detrimental effects on self-image and self-esteem. Far infrared massage directs healthy light waves deep into the dermal layers of skin, where toughened acne scar tissue is softened and lengthened into an increased suppleness for better skin tone and health, according to world famous yogi Bikram Choudhury. Far infrared massage can be administered with a hand-held infrared massage tool, infrared massage bed or in an area equipped with far infrared heaters where massage is administered by a clinician or massage therapist.
Stretch Marks
Stretch marks are the result of body mass growing faster than the skin is able to stretch. This may be the result of weight gain, sudden growth spurts, pregnancy or puberty. While stretch marks may be largely indicative of skin types or heredity, there are things one can do to reduce the appearance of these scars once they appear. Nikki Rajala, author of "Some Like It Hot: The Sauna, Its Lore & Stories," states that far infrared massage may promote elasticity and improve skin tone. Regular use of infrared massage may reduce the appearance of stretch marks significantly.
Acne Scar Prevention
It is usually easier to prevent an issue than to try to fix it once it has occurred. This is true of acne scaring. Author and hot yoga expert Marilyn Barnett encourages the regular use of far infrared massage to reduce acne breakouts, thanks to beneficial light rays and pore stimulation. Using this tool for acne prevention may save a bundle in acne care products and chemicals.
Stretch Mark Prevention
Keeping skin elastic and toned can be difficult in modern lives. Poor food choices, lack of exercise and indoor jobs all contribute to poor skin health. Exposing yourself to the beneficial rays of infrared light can reduce your risk of experiencing stretch marks. According to authors Nikki Rajala and Bikram Choudhury, these special rays do not carry the skin damage risks associated with sun exposure, but instead offer increased elasticity, improved cellular health and increased skin conditioning. If you are pregnant, consult with your doctor before using far infrared treatment in any capacity, to ensure safe exposure limits.
Time Frame
According to Bikram Choudhury of Bikrams Hot Yoga Palace in Los Angeles, it may take several months to notice a reduction in acne scarring or stretch marks with far infrared massage. You can increase exposure to infrared light through attending a hot yoga or Bikram yoga studio, increasing toxin removal and improving skin tone for accelerated scar tissue repair.
References
- "Bikram Yoga: The Guru Behind Hot Yoga Shows the Way to Radiant Health and Personal Fulfillment "; Bikram Choudhury; 2009
- "Hot Yoga: Energising, Rejuvenating, Healing"; Marilyn Barnett; 2006
- "Some Like It Hot: The Sauna, Its Lore & Stories"; Nikki Rajala; 2008
- Healthy New Age: Get Infrared Pain Relief with Massage Tools, Saunas, and Infrared Therapy Clothing
