Red light therapy and infrared sauna are terms that many of us may have heard thrown around these days. Maybe you have had the opportunity to try one or the other. I started using these modalities regularly almost two years ago. They are both wonderful non-invasive wellness therapies that support our overall health. In answer to my question, is one better than the other, no, I believe they are both good for you for similar and different reasons. I enjoy using both therapies to decrease inflammation. Read on to learn more about my own experiences with each therapy.
Red light is generally used through small, medium, and large LED panels. They can be body length hung from a wall, set on a rolling stand, and also can be used on a table top directed at your face. Some companies also sell masks that are placed directly on your face. Red light may support skin health, muscle recovery, and wound healing. It can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support our joints. Red light stimulates our mitochondria, our powerhouse, allowing us to have more energy throughout the day along with enhancing cellular function and repair. In regards to skin health, red light stimulates collagen production; reducing fine lines and wrinkles, sun spots, acne, and even helps with conditions like psoriasis and eczema. I do use excellent skin products for my daily skin routine and have been asked by a few people recently at the age of 45, do I get Botox? I never have gotten Botox, and I can bet you that red light therapy has been assisting with my youthful appearance. Red light therapy sessions are quick, 15 minutes is all you need. I prefer using large panels that face both my front and back side to be efficient. There are many brands out there that are effective, I personally like the brand platinum led therapy lights.
Infrared saunas may use all three wavelengths near, mid, and far, when used all at once it is considered full spectrum. The near infrared wave is similar to the red light, 600-850 nm . Infrared saunas are more efficient than traditional saunas. Infrared saunas heat the body directly using infrared light waves, rather than warming the surrounding air like traditional saunas. Near, mid, and far infrared light waves that may be used in your session depending on the type of sauna you use. This allows infrared saunas to raise core body temperature more effectively at lower temperatures. Infrared saunas typically operate between 110°F and 140°F, whereas traditional saunas range from 150°F to 190°F. Traditional saunas heat the air, which then warms the body’s surface, while infrared saunas penetrate deeper into tissues, promoting perspiration and potential health benefits at more comfortable temperatures. Many people are able to stay in an infrared sauna longer than a traditional due to the air not being heated. The activation of heat shock proteins within your body helps repair damaged cells, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall cellular function. Both saunas a are heating up our core and allowing for detoxification via sweating. Toxins such as environmental pollutants, heavy metals, excess stress hormones are released through both sauna sessions. Saunas improve circulation and cardiovascular health, relieve pain and inflammation, boost energy and bodily defenses, and maintain the appearance of skin health.
I personally love how I feel during and after an infrared sauna session. I find it to be relaxing during the experience, and when practiced consistently I notice my muscles and joints feel better afterwards. My nervous system feels regulated after doing an infrared sauna session. Infrared saunas have been shown to reduce elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone. Also, you may find your sleep quality to improve. A good thing to note, not all infrared saunas are created equal. It is important to do your research and shop products that are third party tested. The last thing you want is to breathe in toxic glues or wood stains during your detox session. We recently purchased the Mpulse infrared sauna from Sunlighten.
In conclusion, my overall wellness has improved from both of these therapies. I highly recommend for athletes, those suffering from an auto immune disease, looking to decrease overall stress levels/cortisol, or simply wanting to increase personal longevity and have a youthful appearance.