Infrared sauna: benefits and harms, features of use and recommendations

From this article you can find out what features and properties an infrared sauna has: the benefits and harms of radiation, its effect on the human body, the rules for using infrared cabins, their types, principle of operation and device. The text contains recommendations of specialists, indications and contraindications for use, consumer reviews and prices for emitters.

Infrared sauna device: what is it, the principle of operation of emitters

To understand all the advantages and the need to use infrared radiation, you should study the device of the sauna itself: what it is, on what principle it works and what effect it has on a person.

The shape and design of the booth should be selected taking into account the design of the room where it will be installed

Unlike conventional steam rooms, the infrared sauna is not so hot, so it is a great alternative for people who can hardly stand high temperatures.

What is an infrared sauna and how does it differ from steam rooms

The infrared sauna is a small room made from natural materials. Most often, wood is used for these purposes. In most cases, such saunas look like infrared cabins, which are designed for a simultaneous stay of 1-2 people. Emitters with infrared waves are installed inside. Thanks to them, bodies that fall into the range of action are warmed up. Infrared waves are part of the light spectrum. They are invisible, but they are capable of heating various objects.

The most popular material for the manufacture of infrared saunas is natural wood.

In general terms, all baths have a similar operating principle, which involves heating one object from another. The differences lie only in the method of transmission, which can be:

1. Contact.
2. Convection.
3. Volnov.

Contact heating occurs when a hot object touches a cold one, giving it infrared radiation. In convection heat transfer, an intermediate carrier is involved, as a rule, water or air. In traditional baths, the human body is heated by air.

The wave method involves the use of infrared waves. In this case, a person is exposed to safe radiation. Infrared waves penetrate 4 cm under the skin, providing warming of the body, joints and internal organs. As a result, a person's sweating increases, and the air itself does not heat up. For this reason, the maximum temperature in infrared home saunas is no more than 50 ° C, while conventional steam rooms are heated up to 110 ° C.

Typical solutions for the overall dimensions of infrared saunas

Interesting fact! Any bodies emit infrared waves, including humans. The most powerful source of such radiation is the sun. The warmth felt by the skin from its rays is infrared waves.

Types and features of infrared emitters for a sauna

The most important component of a sauna is the radiators. Therefore, before you buy an infrared cabin, it is advisable to know the length of the waves produced. Taking this feature into account, the following types of radiation are distinguished:

1. Long - 50-200 microns.
2. Average - 2.5-50 microns.
3. Short - no more than 2.5 microns.

Long waves are considered the safest. This type of radiation is as close as possible to that emanating from the human body. This indicator is in the range of 70-200 microns. Short and medium wavelengths are used for heating large rooms. Therefore, the answer to the question whether infrared heaters are harmful depends on the range in which the waves are emitted.

A variety of shapes, sizes and technical characteristics allow you to install an infrared sauna in almost any room

The price of an infrared sauna depends on what material the radiator is made of.
Manufacturers use:

• metal (stainless steel, incoloy, galvanized or chromed metal);
• ceramics;
• quartz glass.

Incoloy is a special metal alloy made up of iron, chromium and nickel. This material is effective and practical, which is why it is most often used in the manufacture of infrared sauna heaters.

When choosing one or another model of an infrared sauna, special attention should be paid to heating elements

Influence of infrared radiation on the human body

Despite the fact that the temperature in the infrared sauna does not exceed 50 ° C, the radiation is able to penetrate deep into the body and warm the body well. Moreover, such heating is more efficient than in a conventional steam room. If we compare traditional baths with infrared saunas, then in the first case the waves penetrate into the body by only 3-5 mm, and in the second - up to 40 mm.

The fact is that the length of infrared radiation is practically the same as that of heat waves that emanate from a person. Their effect on the body is not perceived as foreign, so the body does not interfere with heating. At the same time, a person's temperature rises to 38.5 ° C.

The impact of infrared waves on the body is not perceived as foreign, therefore the body does not interfere with heating

Infrared properties:

• destruction of harmful microorganisms and viruses;
• rejuvenation;
• preventive and therapeutic effects.

At each stage of the procedure, certain processes take place. A detailed examination of them will allow us to understand the mechanism of the effect of a sauna on a person. First, prepare your portable infrared sauna for your session. For this, the required humidity level (about 45-50%) and temperature regime (about 35-38 ° C) are set. During the first 10 min. the sauna stores energy.During this period of time, a person has a slight sweating and an increase in body temperature up to 38 ° C.

Infrared waves gently warm the body, joints and organs of a person

Over the next 12 minutes. the upper layers of the skin begin to actively release moisture, which increases the level of sweating and increases the rate of blood circulation, as well as improves metabolism in the body. Together with the fluid, the body gets rid of some of the harmful substances and toxins.

Note! The shorter the wavelength, the more warmed up objects that fall under its influence.

Further, the volume of released moisture gradually begins to decrease, since the body has already managed to release part of the unbound water during this time. In the process, there is a rapid increase in body temperature. The optimal session duration is 30 minutes. After that, you need to leave the sauna. At this stage, the intensity of sweating may increase. This process usually takes no more than 8 minutes.

Single infrared booth - a great option for small apartments

Infrared sauna: benefits and harms of emitters, scope

Many consumers prefer infrared saunas for apartments. Unlike conventional steam rooms, these designs have many advantages:

1. Simplified preparation process - it takes only 10-12 minutes to warm up, in the case of a Russian bath this process is more complicated and sometimes lasts more than 1 hour.
2. Shortened session - the procedure lasts about 30-40 minutes, when you need to stay in ordinary steam rooms for at least 60 minutes to achieve the effect.
3. High efficiency due to fast and deep heating, as well as increased perspiration.
4. Safe operation system - thermal loads on the body are minimal, therefore the list of contraindications for a bath with infrared emitters is small.

If you exceed the time spent in the bath, this can cause overloading of the heart muscle.

With limited space, you should pay attention to the combined type cabins

Why an infrared sauna is useful: the healing effect of radiation

In addition to the preventive effect on the human body and its strengthening, the infrared sauna helps to cope with certain diseases.

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Infrared radiation has a positive effect on the human body:

• stabilizes blood pressure levels;
• increases the effectiveness of treatment of ENT diseases;
• strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
• reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood;
• promotes the healing of injuries and wounds, for example, dislocations, bruises, fractures;
• reduces pain in joints, back and muscles;
• thanks to increased blood circulation, kidney function improves;
• enhances immunity;
• promotes resorption of bruises and hematomas;
• normalizes sleep patterns;

The therapeutic capabilities of the infrared sauna will be useful during rehabilitation after injuries

• reduces pain during menstruation and during headaches;
• helps in the treatment of skin diseases such as dandruff, acne, dermatitis, acne, etc .;
• eliminates stress;
• promotes healing of scars and scars.

Important! The infrared sauna cannot be used as the only treatment. The specialist prescribes procedures as an auxiliary part of complex therapy.

Benefits of an infrared sauna: cosmetic effect

In addition to medicine, the scope of the sauna extends to the solution of cosmetic problems. During the session, the human body produces a large amount of sweat. As a result, the skin is cleansed and dead cells are removed. Similar procedures are prescribed for people who have problems with acne and acne.

The infrared sauna does not require any special maintenance, it is enough just to ventilate it after use

Such cabins are installed not only in beauty parlors, but also in gyms, where an infrared sauna is used for weight loss. A session of heat exposure lasting 30 minutes. burns the same amount of calories as a 10 km run. However, using the sauna alone for weight loss will not bring significant results.

To achieve a noticeable effect, the procedure should be applied in a complex manner, in combination with other measures:

• proper nutrition;
• regular sports;
• the use of specialized cosmetics.

Infrared radiation accelerates the absorption of lactic acid, which is produced in muscles during exercise. Athletes actively use the sauna to reduce pain and restore the body.

Infrared sauna cabins can be rectangular, angular or polygonal

Using an infrared sauna: indications and contraindications

Before using infrared emitters, you should find out to whom the bath is contraindicated, and for whom it will have a positive effect. Otherwise, you can harm the body.

Indications for use will apply to people with the following disorders:

• disorders of the nervous system (irritability, fatigue, pinched nerve, distracted attention, memory impairment);
• impaired blood circulation and pressure surges;
• decreased immunity and frequent colds;
• pathology of the musculoskeletal system (rheumatism, muscle spasms, scoliosis, bursitis);
• problems affecting the digestive system, including metabolic disorders at the cellular level and slow metabolism;
• the presence of urticaria, psoriasis, acne, eczema and cellulite;
• signs of menopause.

In addition, the possibilities of a sauna will be useful during the recovery period after suffering inflammatory processes, infectious diseases and injuries.

The market provides a wide range of different solutions for IR booths

Important! Radiation enhances the effect of cosmetic products applied to the skin. To avoid allergic reactions, it is not recommended to use substances that are not intended for the sauna.

What are the contraindications for an infrared sauna:

• exacerbation of skin diseases;
• taking medications (the use of some medications in combination with a sauna can lead to side effects);
• the presence of tumors and oncological diseases;
• period of menstruation and the presence of bleeding;
• diseases affecting the prostate gland;
• mastopathy;
• postoperative period;
• gynecological diseases (myoma, fibroma, endometriosis);
• infectious and colds;
• disturbances in the work of the cardiac system (low or high blood pressure, tachycardia, heart failure, anemia);
• diseases of the urinary system (nephritis, cystitis);
• the presence of implants;
• inflammation and diseases of the joints (arthrosis, arthritis).

To achieve the best therapeutic effect, it is not recommended to leave the booth during the procedure.

In some cases, warming up helps to cope with colds, so many people wonder if it is possible to go to the bathhouse with sinusitis. Herbal medicine, washing, inhalation can be used for its treatment. However, during an exacerbation of chronic sinusitis, visiting the booth is strictly prohibited.

How often can you visit the sauna: benefits and harms, features of the procedure and rules

The rules for visiting an infrared sauna are very different from the procedure used in conventional steam rooms. The duration of the session does not exceed half an hour. This is quite enough to achieve the desired effect. In this case, it is forbidden to leave the booth, even for a short time. But you can open a door, the quality of the procedure will not suffer from this.

Corner infrared booth made of solid mahogany

It is very important to find the appropriate posture during the session. A person should sit on a bench with their legs lowered to the floor. Care must be taken to keep the back straight. In the cabins, the radiators are installed not only on the walls, but also under the seat. For this reason, the seated position is considered the most effective. Be sure to drink plenty of water during the session. The harm of infrared radiation in the absence of contraindications has not been proven, however, drinking fluids will help to avoid dehydration.

Comparative characteristics of the infrared sauna and the Russian bath:

The harm of infrared radiation is possible only if you neglect the visiting rules, for example, increase the time and number of sessions, ignore contraindications, etc. If the sauna is visited frequently, it is advisable to reduce the time spent in it to 20 minutes. In this case, the optimal number of sessions is up to 2 times a week.

When equipping an infrared sauna in your home, do not forget about an additional place to relax after the procedure.

Note! Cold showers are not recommended after the sauna. The body does not perceive the influence of infrared radiation as overheating. You can use a warm shower to rinse away sweat from your skin and moisturize it.

Sauna benefits and harms: how to avoid negative effects

The positive effect depends on how carefully the person follows the established rules. Before starting the procedure, be sure to rinse off cosmetics from the face and body and take a shower. Do not use lotions, creams or scrubs before the session. Otherwise, not only allergies can occur on the skin, but also burns.

Stylish and laconic performance of the IR booth

Also, experts do not recommend eating food before the procedure and immediately after it and immediately before it. It is better to take a break of 1 hour (food, which is taken before visiting the sauna, should be light). Use a dry towel to wipe off sweat. If this is not done, moisture on the skin will slow down the heating of the body and block heat. To replenish the water balance after visiting the sauna, you need to drink green tea or clean water.

To avoid negative impact, you need to adhere to several requirements:

1. Track power and wavelength to avoid burns.
2. Carefully read the list of contraindications, as well as consult a doctor in order to take into account all the individual characteristics of the body and the state of health.
3. Calculate the time spent in the booth individually. The maximum session duration for an adult is 30 minutes, for a child - 15 minutes.
4. In the presence of such side effects as a burning sensation in the nasopharynx and skin, dizziness and headache, watery eyes, you should immediately leave the sauna.
5. You should not be in a booth if you feel discomfort. It will not bring benefits to the body.

Alder corner sauna for 4 persons

After a session in the infrared sauna, the body needs rest. For this, 10-15 minutes is enough. A warm shower will help get rid of any sweat residue. Then you can apply any cosmetic products to clean and dry skin.

Can infrared heaters harm a baby?

Infrared radiation is beneficial not only for adults but also for children. Subject to the rules, the baby's body will strengthen and improve its health while staying in the booth.

To visit the infrared sauna, the child needs to consult a pediatrician

Precautions for children:

1. It is impossible for the baby to stay in the sauna for more than 15 minutes.
2. The maximum allowable power for a child is 65%. While men need about 85% and women - 75%.
3. To eliminate the possibility of heatstroke, the baby should wear a panama hat over his head while in the sauna.
4. Before visiting the sauna, be sure to consult a pediatrician.

Useful advice! Salt infrared saunas are especially useful for children. Instead of wood, tiles made from Himalayan salt are used as a finishing material in the booths.

During operation it is not recommended to water the booth with water

Can an infrared sauna harm a pregnant or lactating woman?

During pregnancy, wellness procedures are not prohibited (in the absence of complications), however, you need to be extremely careful when visiting the sauna in this position. The fact is that the whole body warms up in the booth, even the lower back and stomach gets under the heat effect. No one can know in advance how the body of a pregnant woman will react to such a procedure. Therefore, be sure to consult a doctor before visiting.

Breastfeeding mothers can use the infrared sauna. However, one should take into account the fact that the emitters increase the body temperature to 38.5 ° C, as a result of which the milk may simply "burn out".

Salt infrared saunas are especially popular

If the mother does not breastfeed the baby, then the first visit to the sauna can take place no earlier than 6 weeks after giving birth. Otherwise, heating can provoke deterioration in health, and even cause bleeding.

Which is the best to buy an infrared sauna: price and recommendations

The range of infrared saunas on the market is quite wide. Therefore, buying a booth becomes a daunting task. To find the best option, it is enough to follow a simple algorithm.

1. How to choose an infrared cabin:
2. Decide on the place of installation and with this in mind, calculate the size of the sauna.
3. Choose a shape and external design.
4. Decide on the material for making the booth.
5. Select a heating element with the required characteristics.

As a rule, infrared saunas have clear and convenient control systems.

Make sure that the booth has a convenient and understandable control system.

Considering all these nuances, the booth will bring joy and health for many years. Of course, the manufacturer and price remain important selection criteria, which have a direct impact on the quality of the structure, its durability. It is not recommended to water the booth with water or violate the operating rules, otherwise the sauna will quickly become unusable.

How to choose and buy an infrared sauna with optimal characteristics

To install an infrared sauna in the house, a space of at least 1.2x1.2 m is required. This is the size of standard cabins that are designed for one person. A single structure can be installed in a city apartment, for example, on a loggia or in a bathroom. If there is additional space, you can install a booth with dimensions of 1.5x1.5 m, designed for 2-3 people.

An interesting design of an infrared cabin suitable for a home gym

Triple or quadruple saunas are usually installed in private and country houses. There are booths on sale that can provide a simultaneous stay of 5 or more people. Such designs are intended for gyms and spas.

The shape and design of the booth is selected taking into account the design of the room where it will be installed. Structures are rectangular, angular, hexagonal.

Useful advice! To optimally fit the sauna into the style of the room, you can order a cabin with a suitable design of the external panel, which can be made of glass (mirrored, matte, transparent) or MDF. Handles, trims and other fittings will help diversify the look of the booth. All these little things will allow you to achieve unity in design.

Overall dimensions of a single cabin infrared sauna

For the manufacture of booths, the following types of wood are most often used:

• Siberian cedar;
• deresined pine;
• aspen;
• Canadian cedar;
• alder;
• Linden.

Average prices of infrared saunas by the example of the manufacturer KOY:

Many buyers have already appreciated the benefits of an infrared sauna, consumer reviews from the forums confirm this.

“I go to the sauna after exercising at the gym. I like that the temperature in the booth is low, but at the same time you sweat more intensely than in the bath. After 10 procedures, my skin condition has noticeably improved, it has become clean, the pores have decreased. And the absence of muscle pain after sports is an additional plus. "

Marina Fomicheva, Moscow

“Last year my husband gave me a small infrared booth for my birthday. Feelings are great. After several sessions I lost a little weight. Great thing. I advise you to try. "

Ekaterina Shcheglova, Yekaterinburg

Installation dimensions for the installation of a corner infrared sauna cabin

Making an infrared sauna with your own hands

An infrared sauna can be made with your own hands. This will require a set of necessary knowledge and appropriate tools.

Stages of building an infrared sauna:

1. Selection of the project and drawing, taking into account the location.
2. Selection of building materials.
3. Manufacturing of parts in accordance with the drawings.
4. Assembling the structure.
5. Installation of seats.
6. Electricity supply and installation of emitters.
7. Installation of internal cladding.

Before starting work, the selected project must be coordinated with the relevant departments. This is especially true when the sauna is installed in an apartment. You will have to get permission from the housing inspection, architectural and construction supervision, fire service, sanitary and epidemiological service and other organizations.

3D design of a combined sauna

If this process is too complicated, you can always purchase a compact design ready-made and take care of your health throughout the year. Booth maintenance is very simple. It is enough just to ventilate the structure after use for 20 minutes.