An infrared sauna uses dry heat in a compact area, which increases your body temperature to the point where you sweat and release toxins from your body. There are many health benefits to using an infrared sauna, including increased circulation, quicker healing and increased metabolism. These factors help to detoxify the body of toxins such as metals and chemicals accumulated from daily living. (Reference 1)
Why Detoxify?
Though some doctors believe it is not necessary to detoxify and that the body detoxifies itself of harmful substances on its own, other doctors support the idea that detoxification and infrared sauna use can promote healing and better overall health. Americans eat many processed foods with chemical additives. Additionally, according to the North American Sauna Society, the surrounding environment is often deeply polluted and can cause mercury, lead and copper to be taken in by the body. These two factors can cause misunderstood health problems, such as migraines and sluggish metabolisms (Reference 2).
Types of Saunas
There are several different types of infrared saunas. Electric or wood saunas are usually preheated to excessively hot temperatures in order to produce sweating. Infrared saunas actually heat the body while circulating cool air. (Reference 1) Some small infrared saunas are available for home use, while larger units are usually found in gyms and spas.
Frequency of Use
The frequency of recommended use for infrared saunas depends on each individual situation. Some people can use infrared saunas for daily detoxification if they do not stay inside of the sauna for more than 20 minutes. Other people, especially those with chronic medical conditions should limit sauna use to only a few times per week under a doctor's guidance.
Precautions
Saunas should not be used by pregnant women or anyone with a health condition such as heart disease or asthma (see reference 2). The Finnish Sauna Society also recommends that people with an injury or inflammatory type of disease avoid using saunas altogether. It is best to consult your doctor before using a sauna if you have not done so previously.
Cost
Far-infrared saunas can be very costly, especially the types that a specially designed for home installation and use. If you use a sauna for detoxification only occasionally, it is more cost effective to use one at a gym or spa rather than to purchase one. A single visit may cost $10 to $20, whereas having a sauna built in your home may cost thousands of dollars.
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