Red Light Therapy vs. Infrared Sauna: What’s the Difference (and Should You Use Both?)

If you're into health, recovery, or skincare, you’ve probably seen both red light therapy and infrared saunas pop up in your feed and maybe even in the same sentence.

So, what’s the actual difference between them? Are they doing the same thing? And should you be using both?

Let’s break it down simply.

What Is Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy (RLT), also known as low-level light therapy, utilises specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to stimulate cells at a deep level.

It doesn’t heat the body or cause sweating; instead, it works by helping your cells produce more ATP (energy), allowing them to repair, regenerate, and function more effectively.

💡 Best for:
– Skin health & anti-ageing
– Acne, rosacea, and inflammation
– Recovery from workouts
– Sleep, mood & energy
– Hormonal support

Check out our Clinical-Grade Red Light Therapy Panels here

What Is an Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna uses infrared heat (a different part of the light spectrum) to gently warm your body from the inside out, making you sweat and promoting detoxification.

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, infrared saunas use invisible infrared wavelengths to penetrate your tissue and raise your core body temperature, triggering a deep, relaxing sweat.

💡 Best for:
– Detoxification
– Circulation & cardiovascular health
– Muscle relaxation & joint pain
– Lowering cortisol (stress hormone)
– Improving deep sleep

Check out our Red Light Steam Sauna here

So… What’s the Difference?

They’re not competing — they’re complementary.

Should You Use Both?

Short answer? Yes — if you want the full-body benefits of light and heat therapy.

Here’s how they work together:
🔴 Red light therapy supports your cells, skin, and hormones
♨️ Infrared sauna helps your body relax, detox and lower inflammation

Used together just a few times a week, they can help with:
✅ Better skin tone and texture
✅ Deeper, more restful sleep
✅ Faster recovery from workouts
✅ Less stress and anxiety
✅ A stronger immune system

You don’t even need to leave your house. That’s the beauty of having your own at-home red light panel or sauna.

Final Thoughts

Red light therapy and infrared sauna each offer amazing benefits on their own, but together, they’re a powerful combo for total body wellness.

If you’re ready to recover better, sleep deeper, and feel more energised, these tools are worth the investment.

Explore our Red Light Panels
Explore our Home Steam Sauna

Still not sure where to start? Message us on Instagram @modern.therapies — we’re always happy to help you build a setup that works for you.