The Benefits of Infrared Sauna vs. Sun Rays

An infrared sauna’s health benefits are all caused by the thermal energy you feel when you sit in its dry, relaxing warmth. That soothing heat may feel similar to the warmth of soft sunlight, but don’t be fooled—an infrared sauna’s heat is very different than the sun’s rays.

Sun rays include a spectrum of light: ultraviolet light, visible light, and infrared. Each type of radiation is experienced in different ways and has different effects on the human body.

Imagine this: it’s a sunny winter day, and you’re outside shivering in the cold air. But when you stand in the sun, you feel the warmth on your face despite the low temperatures. That’s the sun’s infrared waves at work.

Safer Without UV

Infrared saunas mimic the same infrared wavelengths created by the sun but leave out the other elements of the electromagnetic (or sun ray) spectrum. Most notably, that means that your time in an infrared sauna comes without any of the harmful ultraviolet waves that we use sunscreen to protect against when we’re outside, UVA or UVB rays. So, you can enjoy the relaxing and rejuvenating effects of infrared thermal therapy without worrying about the damage the sun would cause.