An infrared sauna can provide a relaxing experience. Not to mention, it is also linked to a number of health benefits. To optimize its benefits, however, one of the most important is the right temperature.
When the infrared sauna is too hot, it can end up being uncomfortable. Worse, it can make you dizzy or nauseous. On the other hand, when it is not hot, it will be useless. It will not make you sweat.
If you are curious about the best temperature for infrared sauna, keep on reading and we’ll let you know how hot it should be.
The Right Temperature for an Infrared Sauna
We have varying definitions of comfort, so it is impossible to set a general rule when it comes to how hot an infrared sauna should be. Ideally, the temperature in an infrared sauna should be anywhere from 110 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. A lower temperature can be beneficial if the goal of being in the sauna is detoxification. A higher temperature, on the other hand, is better for cleansing.
The best temperature is always the highest since this can provide maximum sauna benefits. However, this may not work for all people. This is why we are trying to be safe and recommending the temperature to be at 110 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. As you get used to the feeling of being in a sauna, you can set it at a higher temperature.
Why Infrared Saunas Have Low Temperature
If there is one thing that differentiates a traditional steam sauna from an infrared sauna, it would be temperature. Steam saunas get hotter. The temperature can get as high as 180 degrees Fahrenheit, unlike in an infrared sauna that is usually only up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. While the temperature is lower, this does not mean that it is any less in terms of its performance and benefits.
One of the main reasons why an infrared sauna does not get too hot is because of the way it is designed. It is built to heat your body directly and not the entire room or the sauna. This means that if the temperature is too high, then it can be too much for your body to bear, and this can inevitably result in health problems.
The Dangers of Being Too Hot
Overheating can be a problem in an infrared sauna. You might think that hotter is better. While that can be true, this is not always the case. Especially for at-risk populations, being too hot can be a danger. It can result in being dizzy and nauseous. Worse, it can make you faint. This can cause a sudden elevation in your blood pressure. This is also why if you have health problems, make sure to always have a companion when going to a sauna.
To lessen the risks associated with being in an infrared sauna, one of the best things that can help is hydration. Before you enter, it is best to drink a full glass of water. The same thing should be done after the sauna session. Throughout the time that you are in the sauna, if you are not feeling well, go out to grab water before you continue.
Other Tips for a Comfortable Experience
The temperature of the sauna is just one of the many factors that will have an impact on your comfort and the quality of the overall experience. Another thing to do is make sure that you know what to wear. It is best to wear nothing! Going nude in the sauna is a relaxing experience more than just being liberating. In fact, in some places, it is considered rude if you are wearing something when you are in the sauna. Nonetheless, there are also lots of instances wherein you are not allowed to go nude, especially when the sauna is gender-mixed. If you cannot be naked, then wear loose-fitting clothes so that you will be more comfortable.
Do not stay in the sauna longer than what is necessary. It is best to be inside for only 10 to 15 minutes. Take a break and go back if you are still looking for a relaxing experience. Staying longer can cause dehydration and other serious health problems.
Conclusion
In sum, as mentioned earlier, the best temperature for infrared sauna is 110 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Infrared saunas can get as hot as 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This is as against steam saunas that can get as high as 180 degrees. The best temperature, however, can vary from one person to another depending on individual preferences. At the end of the day, the best temperature is whatever you find most comfortable.