Infrared Sauna vs. Red Light Therapy: What’s the Difference?
Are you curious about the best wellness tools for your health but overwhelmed by options? Infrared saunas and Red Light Therapy are two popular choices with scientifically proven benefits—but which one is right for you? Let’s dive into the facts to help you make an informed choice.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly, leading to sweating and increased circulation.
Science-backed Benefits of Infrared Sauna:
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A study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension found that regular sauna use reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure (Laukkanen et al., 2018).
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Research from the Mayo Clinic indicates that sauna therapy can reduce muscle soreness and improve joint mobility (Mayo Clinic, 2021).
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A clinical trial in Complementary Therapies in Medicine reported that infrared sauna use helps detoxify the body by promoting sweat-induced elimination of heavy metals (Genuis et al., 2016).
What is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy (RLT) uses low-level red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular energy (ATP production).
Science-backed Benefits of Red Light Therapy:
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A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology demonstrated that RLT increases collagen density by 29% over 12 weeks, improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles (Barolet et al., 2016).
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According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), RLT reduces muscle fatigue and enhances recovery by improving mitochondrial function (NIH, 2020).
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A randomised controlled trial in Pain Research and Management showed that RLT decreases pain and inflammation in patients with chronic joint disorders (Leal-Junior et al., 2019).
Key Differences:
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Heat: Infrared saunas produce heat for sweating; RLT uses light without heat.
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Main Focus: Saunas emphasise detox and relaxation; RLT supports cellular healing and skin health.
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Duration: Saunas last 20-45 minutes; RLT sessions are typically 10-20 minutes.
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Best for: Saunas are great for detoxing and stress relief, and RLT excels in skin care, pain relief, and muscle recovery.
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How It Works: Saunas heat the body directly; RLT penetrates cells with red/near-infrared light.
Which One is Right for You?
Choose an infrared sauna for detox, relaxation, and improved circulation. Choose red light therapy for better skin, pain relief, and faster recovery.
Both therapies are effective and supported by scientific research. They are often used together to promote overall wellness.
Ready to explore Red Light Therapy? Check out our panels for home use. Shop Now or learn more here!
Sources:
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Laukkanen et al., 2018, Journal of Human Hypertension
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Mayo Clinic, 2021
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Genuis et al., 2016, Complementary Therapies in Medicine
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Barolet et al., 2016, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
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NIH, 2020
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Leal-Junior et al., 2019, Pain Research and Management