Infrared sauna

A traditional sauna heats the air around you, often to 170 degrees Fahrenheit or more, and your body warms up as a result of that hot air. An infrared sauna instead uses infrared panels that emit radiant heat aimed directly at the body, which lets it operate at a noticeably lower air temperature, typically 120 to 140 degrees, while still producing a strong sweat. This makes infrared units more approachable for people who find a traditional sauna's heat overwhelming.

Home infrared saunas range from small portable tents you sit inside to full cabin units built for a garage or basement, and pricing and footprint vary a lot between the two. Portable versions are the easier entry point for testing whether a sauna habit is something you will stick with before committing to a permanent installation. Traditional and steam saunas remain the better choice for people who specifically want a hotter, more intense session or the humid feel of steam.

As with any heat exposure, sessions are generally kept to 15 to 30 minutes, hydration matters before and after, and anyone who is pregnant or has a heart condition, low blood pressure or another relevant medical issue should check with a doctor before regular sauna use. Stepping out at the first sign of dizziness or discomfort is always the right call.