Best Infrared Sauna

Saunas have always been beloved in the wellness world due to their numerous relaxation, health, and social benefits. However, the emergence of infrared saunas has taken the appreciation for these unique heating rooms (or devices) to a whole new level.

Infrared saunas have a unique approach to heating the body, offering deeper penetration and more targeted therapy. The result? The health benefits only intensify. Throw their compact construction and numerous advanced technological features into the mix, and you’ve got a wellness powerhouse that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles.

But precisely which infrared sauna should you incorporate into your lifestyle?

That’s what this guide will help you discover. Read on to learn about the best infrared sauna models on the market and everything else you might need to make an informed decision.

Top 5 Infrared Saunas

Let’s cut to the chase – these are the top five infrared sauna models you should consider. Best of all? Some of them only differ in size, so you can experience the many sauna health benefits that come with these models regardless of the size of sauna you need.

1. Finnmark FD-4 Trinity 2-Person Infrared & Steam Sauna Combo

Are you meticulously researching the benefits of traditional, infrared, and steam saunas to figure out which type is the right one for you? If so, we’ve got good news. With the Finnmark FD-4 Trinity 2-Person Infrared & Steam Sauna Combo, you don’t have to choose. You get medical-grade infrared therapy and a traditional sauna heater, all wrapped in one aesthetically pleasing package.

This unique combo is a rare feat on the sauna market, offering the best of both worlds for sauna enthusiasts. But that’s not where the benefits of this model stop.

This sauna is constructed using anti-microbial Western Canadian cedar that safeguards its interior against mold, bacteria, and fungus. So, feel free to spray some water inside to make a luxurious steam experience; there will be no negative consequences in sight!

2. Finnmark FD-5 Trinity XL 4-Person Infrared & Steam Sauna Combo

Do you like the idea of an infrared sauna and a steam room combined but have more than two people who’d like to enjoy it at once? Don’t worry. There is a solution to your problem, and it’s called the Finnmark FD-5 Trinity XL 4-Person Infrared & Steam Sauna Combo.

As you can probably guess, the only difference between this model and the one from the previous section is the capacity. This extra-large model comfortably sits four people, allowing you to bring your family and friends into this wonderful world of relaxation and rejuvenation.

And when we say “comfortably,” we truly mean it. This spacious infrared sauna features incredibly comfortable benches, ergonomic backrest, and even removable (and adjustable) sauna feet for uneven surfaces.

3. Finnmark FD-3 Full-Spectrum 3-Person Infrared Sauna

If you’re positive that an infrared sauna is the right choice for you, it doesn’t get better than a full-spectrum sauna. And in the world of full-spectrum saunas, it doesn’t get better than the Finnmark FD-3 Full-Spectrum 3-Person Infrared Sauna. How so?

Well, the amazing features speak for themselves. Choose this infrared sauna, and you’ll be able to comfortably stretch and relax, even with four people inside (That’s right, four, not three!).

You’ll also be able to experience deeper penetration and full-body coverage like no other, thanks to the strategic placement of infrared heaters. While inside, customize your experience using the built-in LCD touchscreen controller, play some music on the Hi-Fi speakers, and sink into the ergonomic backrest. It’s time to relax!

4. Finnmark FD-2 Full-Spectrum 2-Person Infrared Sauna

If you have no need (or space) for a large sauna in your home, the Finnmark FD-2 Full-Spectrum 2-Person Infrared Sauna is the way to go. This ultra-modern engineering marvel can reach a temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit in under an hour, thanks to strategically placed (and powerful) infrared heaters and panels.

Besides being constructed to provide higher temperatures than traditional infrared saunas, this model is also built to last. With the Western Canadian cedar interior and naturally enhanced aspen exterior, this Finnmark sauna not only looks beautiful but also resists warping and cracking over time. Talk about a win-win combination!

5. Finnmark FD-1 Full-Spectrum 1-Person Infrared Sauna

No space in your home? No problem! The Finnmark FD-1 Full-Spectrum 1-Person Infrared Sauna allows you to experience the marvelous health and wellness benefits of infrared therapy in even the smallest of spaces.

But don’t be fooled by this model’s compact size; it’s still big on features.

You get the unparalleled combination of UL-Listed Spectrum Plus infrared heaters and Spectrum Carbon 360-degree panels, which allows you to turn your home into a personal wellness oasis in no time. You also get to enjoy medical-grade color therapy, all while lounging comfortably and listening to some relaxing music. It truly doesn’t get better than that!

Understanding Infrared Sauna Technology

Now, you might still need some more information on infrared saunas before committing to a purchase. Or, you might have some questions, such as “What does a sauna do for you?” or “Are infrared saunas safe to use?” Good news – this is where you’ll get the answers to all your burning questions.

What Is an Infrared Sauna?

This guide has already introduced infrared saunas as somewhat of a revolutionary concept in the sauna world. So, what makes these saunas so different from traditional saunas?

It’s all about the heating method.

You see, a traditional sauna uses wood burning (or an electrical heater) to heat the air to a fairly high temperature. The air, in turn, heats your body, causing you to sweat and experience the sauna’s benefits.

Infrared saunas have a more targeted approach. They don’t heat the air; they heat your body directly. They rely on infrared heaters (or lamps) to send penetrating heat into your body tissue. This means infrared saunas can achieve the same benefits as traditional saunas at significantly lower temperatures.

This unique approach has two primary benefits. One, your stay in the infrared sauna can be longer and more comfortable, as the heat around you isn’t insufferable. And two, the deeper penetration allows for more effective sweating and detoxification, as well as potential benefits for sore muscles and joints.

But not all infrared radiation will penetrate to that extent. It all depends on which of the three types of infrared radiation is used in the sauna.

·        Near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths. They have the shallowest penetration, usually limiting their effects to the skin’s surface.

·        Mid-infrared (MIR) wavelengths. These wavelengths penetrate deeper into the body, reaching the soft tissue.

·        Far-infrared (FIR) wavelengths. With FIR wavelengths, you get the deepest penetration and the most efficient heat absorption, affecting your body on the cellular level.

Of course, you don’t have to choose between wavelengths when purchasing an infrared sauna. Buy a full-spectrum infrared sauna, and you get comprehensive therapy in one unit.

Benefits of Infrared Heating

Now that you know what an infrared sauna is, let’s see what it can do for your body. As mentioned, most of the major benefits of infrared saunas come from the fact that infrared light penetrates directly into your body. However, the lower temperatures of infrared saunas (typically up to 135 degrees Fahrenheit) are also notable, as they allow you to stay inside longer and thus experience more long-term benefits.

Improving Circulation

Sauna bathing being used for boosting blood circulation is by no means a new concept. Once your body heats up, your blood vessels dilate, which increases the blood flow and circulation. However, infrared saunas are even more effective at improving circulation since the infrared heat penetrates deep into your body. This can lead to a more profound and lasting increase in blood flow, providing more significant benefits for your health and well-being.

But what are these health benefits we’re talking about?

With improved circulation come the following:

·        Improved oxygen delivery to your muscles

·        Enhanced nutrient delivery to your organs and tissues

·        Improved cardiovascular function

Boosting Cardiovascular Health

The positive effects of infrared saunas on cardiovascular health are so substantial that they warrant their own section.

Most of these cardiovascular benefits are triggered by improved blood circulation. However, the mere fact that your blood vessels dilate in response to heat (a phenomenon medically known as vasodilation) is extremely beneficial for your heart. You see, the relaxation of your blood vessels helps reduce your blood pressure, both instantly and in the long run. This is beneficial in and of itself, but managing your blood pressure effectively also does wonders for your entire cardiovascular system.

That’s why it shouldn’t be surprising that a recent study found that regular sauna goers (four times a week) have significantly lower cardiovascular mortality rates. These findings are on par with an older but widely cited study conducted over 20 years, which found that regular sauna bathing (four to seven times a week) can help lower your risk of dying from heart disease or stroke.

Relieving Pain and Relaxing Muscles

Anyone who suffers from chronic pain knows how debilitating it can be. Your goal in life is to manage the pain and find relief. An infrared sauna might be able to offer you just that. An older study published in the peer-reviewed Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics journal found that infrared sauna therapy can be a promising method for treating chronic pain.

Even if your pain isn’t debilitating, sauna bathing might help. Since the infrared heat can reach all the soft tissue in your body, it can help relieve muscle aches, joint discomfort, and overall tension. Even something as minor as post-workout soreness can be effectively combated through sauna bathing.

Improving Skin Health

Thanks to the unique effect of near-, mid-, and far-infrared wavelengths, infrared light can impact your skin on virtually every level, from the surface to the subcutaneous layer. So, it’s no wonder the positive effects of infrared saunas on skin health are manifold.

On the surface, your pores will open and clear up, leaving your skin fresh and rejuvenated. As you travel deeper into the body, you’ll find out that infrared light can stimulate collagen production, as discovered by past studies. With improved collagen production come reduced wrinkles and fine lines, improved skin elasticity, and a more youthful appearance.

A 2018 review even found that infrared light can help treat specific skin conditions, such as psoriasis, by affecting the autoimmune processes that cause this condition. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of infrared light on skin conditions.

Detoxifying Your Body

There are still numerous debates concerning the potential detoxifying effect of sauna bathing on the human body. However, numerous past studies have found that profuse sweating can help eliminate harmful substances from the body, such as mercury, lead, and other environmental pollutants. And sweating profusely is precisely what an infrared sauna causes you to do.

Given how many negative consequences toxin accumulation can have on the body (e.g., fatigue, digestion problems, and skin issues), giving infrared saunas a shot is undoubtedly worth considering.

Reducing Stress and Relaxing

Let’s be honest. Even if there weren’t any other health benefits of infrared saunas, the mere fact that they offer a private oasis in which to relax and unwind would probably make them an excellent investment.

But by now, you can probably guess that even relaxation in a sauna has far-reaching benefits beyond the obvious – the relaxing part. Using an infrared sauna regularly can improve sleep, reduce stress levels, and even help manage symptoms of some major mood disorders like depression.

EMF Concerns and Safety

Infrared saunas take a novel approach to heating your body. However, for this novel approach to work, multiple electrical elements need to be installed within the sauna cabin. And where there are electrical elements, there are electromagnetic fields (EMFs). This begs a question – are infrared saunas safe to use?

The short answer is – absolutely. That’s because the best infrared sauna manufacturers limit the amount of EMFs emitted by their saunas to well below the recommended safety levels. But just to make sure, look for saunas that are labeled as “Low EMF” and, more importantly, have the necessary testing and documentation to prove it.

Choosing the Best Infrared Sauna for Your Home

Though you can find infrared saunas at numerous wellness centers, nothing beats having one of these wellness oases in your home. Of course, purchasing an infrared sauna is quite an investment, so you want to ensure you’ll make all the right choices. This section will help you achieve just that. From the factors that should influence your purchasing decision to the brands and models you should consider, you should have all the information you need afterward.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Infrared Sauna

Before looking into the best infrared saunas on the market, you should create a handy checklist of factors to consider when making your decision. Here are the factors that should 100% make the list.

Size

Infrared saunas come in all shapes and sizes. The best size for your needs will depend on a few considerations.

No. 1 – How many people will be using the sauna simultaneously? If it’s just you, perfect! Choose a one-seater, and you’re good to go. However, turning the sauna use into a social gathering will require a larger model.

No. 2 – How much space do you have in your home? If the answer is “little,” it doesn’t matter how many people want to use the sauna at once. You’ll have to go with a more compact model.

And No. 3 – What is your sauna budget? Naturally, larger models tend to cost more, so keep your budget in mind when determining the ideal size.

Materials

Hopefully, you’ll use your in-home sauna at least three to four times a week. With the amount of time you’ll be spending there, you must ensure that there are no safety and health concerns inside. This means eliminating saunas made from cheap wood options like plywood from contention, as they can contain (and release) toxins.

Going for a more expensive option like cedar, hemlock, or basswood will also ensure your infrared sauna withstands the test of time. Besides providing a sturdy construction, these wood options increase your sauna’s durability by fending off mildew and mold growth.

Heater Type

Besides the overall construction of the infrared sauna, special attention needs to be paid to the installed heaters. These heaters should meet two criteria.

One, they should be high-quality, as this is the only way to ensure optimum heat and infrared light output. These heaters will also be able to achieve a high temperature faster, ensuring an impactful sauna session every time.

And two, the sauna’s heaters should be placed strategically to ensure even heating and all-body exposure. To this end, the best manufacturers combine infrared heaters with infrared panels.

EMF Levels

As discussed, choosing an infrared sauna with low EMF levels is of utmost importance for your safety. But beware – some manufacturers will label their infrared models as “Zero EMF” saunas. Unfortunately, this simply isn’t possible, as all infrared saunas generate heat through electromagnetic radiation.

But don’t worry. Infrared saunas labeled as “Ultra-low EMF” or “Low EMF” are still perfectly safe for regular use. Of course, this only applies if these claims can be substantiated by certifications from renowned and independent testing laboratories.

The Best Infrared Saunas on the Market

With your checklist in hand, you can look into some of the best infrared sauna manufacturers on the market and quickly find the best model for you.

Komowa

Komowa reigns supreme in the modern sauna technology department. You’ve already read about the brand’s best-selling models in this guide, so let’s get to know the brand itself.

Komowa specializes in premium wellness tools, with saunas at the helm. The brand’s infrared saunas stand out from others on the market thanks to their exceptionally durable construction, low EMF environment, and numerous additional features. But what makes these saunas the best on the market is their effectiveness. Due to a unique combination of high-tech heaters and strategic placement, these infrared saunas are able to provide a more targeted and efficient heat therapy, making them true wellness marvels.

Dynamic Saunas

Dynamic Saunas specialize in FIR saunas that combine hemlock fir construction, low EMF environment, and easy assembly. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the brand’s saunas are aesthetically pleasing! The only notable flaws users often cite are the tight interior and slow warm-up time.

The brand’s most popular infrared saunas are the Barcelona and Maxxus models.

Sun Home Saunas

Sun Home Saunas is an established brand in the wellness industry, offering an excellent variety of infrared saunas, cold plunge tubs, and portable ice baths. As far as these infrared saunas go, they’re considered premium options characterized by innovative designs and low EMF levels.

Though there are many great models to choose from, some of the fan favorites include the Solstice 1-Person, the Equinox Full-Spectrum, and the Luminar Outdoor Full-Spectrum infrared saunas.

HigherDOSE

Though HigherDOSE does offer “traditional” infrared sauna cabins, the brand has primarily received widespread recognition for its infrared sauna blankets. These blankets are only a tiny fraction of the brand’s offerings that focus on the fusion between wellness and tech.

We’ll discuss the difference between infrared sauna blankets and rooms a little later in this guide. For now, all you need to know is that HigherDOSE excels at producing the former, making it an excellent choice for lovers of portable wellness.

Portable vs. At-Home Infrared Saunas

If there’s one thing that people interested in purchasing infrared saunas won’t lack, it’s options. In the convenience department, you have three primary choices:

·        Portable infrared saunas. Portable infrared saunas are designed to be easily moved and set up in different locations. This is usually made possible by a collapsible frame and a fabric enclosure you can put away when not in use. So, these saunas are ideal for individuals with highly limited space. However, they’ll also do wonders for everyone who wants to experience wellness on the go or try out infrared saunas before committing to a more permanent installation.

·        Portable home saunas. Though not as portable and movable as the previous models, portable home saunas are still incredibly convenient. They are relatively easy to set up and make a perfect choice for people who plan to change their locations throughout the home or move to a new home altogether.

·        Permanent home installations. As their name suggests, these installations can’t be moved once set up. They also typically require the most space. However, permanent home installations are the only way to go for those intending to use the sauna regularly, as they offer the most features and can be fully customized to fit your lifestyle.

Maximizing Your Infrared Sauna Experience

Let’s say you’ve found your perfect sauna model and purchased it. So, that’s it – you can jump right in? Not so fast. There are a few safety considerations and helpful tips to consider first.

How to Use an Infrared Sauna Safely and Effectively

In order to use an infrared sauna safely and effectively, you must follow specific guidelines:

·        Don’t overdo it. Sure, infrared saunas allow you to stay longer in the cabin, but this doesn’t mean you should overdo it. Start with shorter sessions of up to 20 minutes and gradually work your way up to a 30-minute session if your body allows it.

·        Keep the temperature in check. There’s one golden rule in the sauna – always listen to your body. The sauna unit might be able to reach an extremely high temperature, but your body might not be able to handle it. So, to avoid overheating, keep the temperature at a comfortable level, no matter what external sources might suggest.

·        Stay hydrated. Regardless of the length of your sauna session, make sure to stay hydrated before, during, and after it. This is the only way to prevent dehydration, which can be extremely dangerous.

·        Consult your healthcare provider before going in. Some individuals, like pregnant women, aren’t allowed to use the sauna. Others, like people with some heart conditions, can only do it under specific circumstances. Rather than jumping in and potentially risking your health, consult your medical professional first.

Incorporating Infrared Sauna Use Into Your Health Routine

The most impactful health and wellness benefits of infrared saunas come with frequent and regular use. That’s why you should find the best way to incorporate sauna bathing into your normal health routine. You can do so by:

·        Pairing it with your exercises

·        Adding it to your skincare routine in the morning

·        Making it a social activity

·        Setting a fixed weekly schedule

Budget Considerations and Value

As previously mentioned, investing in an at-home sauna won’t always be cheap. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t any budget-friendly options that still deliver notable benefits.

Best Budget Infrared Saunas

Let’s not sugarcoat it – a limited budget can only get you a portable infrared sauna. That is, of course, if you want a quality infrared sauna. Still, these saunas have numerous benefits, from convenience and flexibility to ease of use and space-saving design. Some models you’ll want to consider in this category include the following:

·        HigherDOSE Sauna Blanket

·        SereneLife Infrared Home Sauna

·        Smartmak Portable Far Infrared Sauna

Investing in Your Health: When to Splurge on an Infrared Sauna

It’s perfectly understandable to be hesitant about spending thousands of dollars on an at-home sauna. But look at this money as an investment and not a mindless splurge.

Higher-end models are of significantly higher quality, provide better EMF ratings, and offer tons of advanced features (e.g., built-in speakers). That’s not to mention that they will last you for years to come, justifying their initial cost. Lower-quality saunas, on the other hand, might break down quickly, forcing you to spend more money on a replacement or go back to costly spa and gym memberships.

Additional Features and Considerations

There are a few more details you should know before jumping into your first at-home sauna.

Infrared Sauna Blankets vs. Sauna Rooms

Sauna blankets have recently gained popularity in the sauna industry, primarily thanks to their affordable price tag, convenience, and compact nature. After all, what’s not to like? You get a cozy and portable sauna wrap that targets your body directly yet can be put away after use.

Of course, the idea of pulling out and folding a giant blanket each time you want to sauna bathe doesn’t appeal to everyone. There are people who see saunas as relaxation oases where you go in stressed and come out rejuvenated and ready to tackle the world. There’s no room for any unwieldy blankets in this scenario!

Plus, the proximity to the heaters and other electrical elements might be worrisome due to higher EMF levels. So, if you do opt for a sauna blanket, keep an eye on these levels and consider using it in moderation to minimize potential risks.

To sum up, sauna blankets are ideal for people who:

·        Only have limited space

·        Have a limited budget

·        Want to keep their heads cool

·        Don’t want to deal with maintenance

On the other hand, sauna rooms are the way to go for those who:

·        Prefer the authentic sauna feel

·        Want to share the sauna with other people

·        Don’t want the hassle of daily setup

·        Fear EMF radiation

·        Want to experience additional features like aromatherapy

Customizing Your Infrared Sauna Experience

As mentioned, one of the biggest advantages of “traditional” sauna rooms is that they can be fully customized to enhance your overall sauna experience. With the following additions and accessories, sauna bathing becomes a luxurious experience beyond comparison:

·        Chromotherapy for creating a soothing atmosphere

·        Ionizers for purifying the air and boosting the respiratory benefits

·        Audio systems for a relaxing and immersive session

·        Smartphone compatibility for remote control

·        Additional handy accessories like towel racks, moveable foot benches, cup holders, and magazine baskets

An At-Home Paradise

There’s no doubt about it – an at-home infrared sauna will completely transform your wellness routine, health, and property. Your home will now become a sanctuary where you can escape from the stresses of daily life and focus on your well-being. Just make sure to find the model that matches your personal needs, preferences, space, and budget, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying the numerous benefits of infrared sauna therapy right in the comfort of your own home.