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Can red light therapy be used in a sauna?

By: Author Color With Leo

Saunas have been used for centuries as a way to promote relaxation, detoxification, and overall health. In recent years, red light therapy has emerged as a scientifically-backed treatment that also offers many wellness benefits. This has led some sauna enthusiasts to wonder if combining these modalities could provide an enhanced experience.

What is red light therapy?

Red light therapy involves exposing the body to low-level red and near-infrared light for therapeutic purposes. These wavelengths of light are thought to provide the following benefits:

  • Increases blood flow and circulation
  • Reduces inflammation and joint pain
  • Promotes skin health and wound healing
  • Improves muscle recovery
  • Elevates mood and energy
  • Supports immunity

During a typical red light therapy session, an individual sits or stands near a device emitting red and near-infrared light. Recommended treatment times range from 5-20 minutes a few times per week. Studies show that benefits can often be achieved with just a few sessions.

Using red light therapy in a sauna

There are a few different ways that red light therapy could potentially be incorporated into the sauna experience:

1. Integrated sauna panels

Some companies offer sauna panels that have red and near-infrared lights built into them. This allows for a seamless way to combine both therapies at once. The user can activate the lights during the sauna session and receive full-body exposure to the beneficial wavelengths.

2. External red light therapy device

If a sauna does not come equipped with integrated red light capabilities, an external red light therapy device can be brought into the sauna instead. These devices often come on stands with adjustable heights and angles, allowing you to position the lights close to your body. Care should be taken to ensure the device can withstand the high heat and humidity inside the sauna.

3. Handheld red light therapy device

Small, handheld red light therapy devices are also available. These can be easily used for spot treatments during a sauna session. For example, directing the light on achy joints, muscles, or other problem areas. While less powerful than full-body systems, the handheld devices still emit therapeutic wavelengths.

Benefits of combining red light therapy and sauna use

Using red light therapy during sauna use offers several potential upsides:

  • Enhances circulation and blood flow. Both modalities dialate blood vessels and boost circulation. Combining them may amplify these effects.
  • Increases detoxification. The heat and sweating of a sauna help eliminate toxins. Red light exposure also encourages cellular detox processes.
  • Relieves pain and inflammation. Red light therapy targets painful joints, muscles, and injuries. Saunas also reduce inflammation.
  • Promotes muscle recovery. The light wavelengths help reduce post-workout soreness. Saunas also speed muscle recovery.
  • Improves mood and relaxation. Red light boosts mood and energy. Saunas provide stress relief and mental clarity.
  • Supports skin health. Sweating cleanses skin. Red light rejuvenates skin through collagen and elastin production.

In essence, combining these therapies may have a synergistic effect – with the benefits of each enhancing the other for improved results.

Potential drawbacks of using red light therapy in a sauna

While the combination offers many perks, there are also some potential downsides:

  • The high heat and humidity can potentially damage red light therapy devices not specifically designed for sauna use.
  • The effectiveness of the light may be reduced due to the heat causing vasodilation and blood vessel expansion.
  • There are concerns that the heat from the sauna could cause LEDs to overheat and burn out more quickly.
  • The therapy time may need to be shortened due to the intense heat of the sauna.
  • The additional sweat prompted by the sauna may impact adherence of LED panels to the skin.
  • Safety goggles should be worn to protect eyes from excessive light exposure.

With proper precautions, these drawbacks can be minimized. But they should be considered when deciding whether to use red light therapy in a hot vs. dry sauna.

Safety precautions for red light therapy in a sauna

If you do choose to use red light therapy during sauna sessions, keep these safety guidelines in mind:

  • Use only red light devices designed for sauna use. Check the product specs for heat and humidity tolerance.
  • Start with short 5-10 minute sessions and work up slowly to longer treatment times.
  • Give the red light system regular breaks during the sauna session. Don’t keep it on continuously.
  • Keep the red light source at least 12 inches from the body to prevent overheating the LEDs.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during and after use.
  • Avoid directly shining the light into the eyes. Wear provided safety goggles.
  • Stop using if you experience any pain, discomfort, or negative effects.
  • Consult your doctor before use, especially if you have any medical conditions or take medications.

Paying attention to these precautions will help ensure you have a safe, comfortable experience.

Optimal sauna conditions for red light therapy

To get the most out of combining these modalities, consider the following sauna setup recommendations:

  • Use a dry sauna rather than a steam sauna. The lower humidity will be easier on red light therapy devices.
  • Maintain a sauna temperature between 140-160°F. Too hot can overwhelm the body and damage devices.
  • Choose a sauna with low EMF to prevent interference with the red light therapy system.
  • Select panels made of basswood or hemlock rather than pine. They are more resistant to heat damage.
  • Install LED lighting rather than incandescent or halogen. Generates less ambient heat.
  • Use cedar for the sauna benches. Has a stable, heat-resistant structure.

Optimizing these sauna design factors will provide the best environment for safe, effective use of red light therapy.

Comparison of red light therapy devices for saunas

Several companies now manufacture red light therapy systems specifically for use in saunas. Here is an overview of some top products:

Product Number of LEDs Wavelengths Power Density Coverage Area Heat Tolerance Price
SaunaSpace Pro Max 84 660nm, 850nm 80 mW/cm2 50 x 20 in Up to 150°F $599
Health Mate Infrared Sauna System 126 660nm, 850nm 120 mW/cm2 70 x 20 in Up to 140°F $999
TheraSauna Pro 72 660nm, 880nm 100 mW/cm2 40 x 15 in Up to 120°F $349
Dr. Infrared Portable Panel 60 660nm 50 mW/cm2 24 x 10 in Up to 130°F $179

As you can see, there are many excellent red light therapy options designed for sauna integration. The system you choose will depend on your budget, sauna size, and specific needs.

Recommendations for in-home vs. commercial sauna use

Using red light therapy is feasible in both personal and commercial saunas, but there are some factors to consider in each setting:

In-home saunas

  • Look for small, modular red light therapy panels that can be installed in tight spaces.
  • Handheld red light devices work well for spot treating specific areas.
  • Choose affordable, lower-powered units for home use. You don’t need the intensity of commercial systems.
  • Consider getting a timer to automatically switch the red light on and off during sessions.
  • Follow all installation and electrical requirements for home safety.

Commercial saunas

  • Invest in commercial-grade red light therapy fixtures that can withstand prolonged daily use.
  • Look for waterproof systems that will resist damage from high steam and humidity.
  • Choose high-power units that can effectively cover larger sauna spaces.
  • Install panels on multiple walls to allow users to face the lights from any seat.
  • Get durable polycarbonate safety eye goggles for users.

With the right setup, both environments can safely support red light therapy integration.

Cost analysis of adding red light therapy to a sauna

The costs of incorporating red light therapy into your sauna will primarily depend on:

  • Size of existing sauna
  • Type of red light device
  • Installation requirements

Here are some estimates for typical home sauna setups:

Small 1-2 person sauna (30 sq ft):

  • Red light therapy panels: $200-$800
  • Installation costs: $0-$200 (DIY vs. hired electrician)
  • Total cost: $200-$1,000

Large 3-4 person sauna (50+ sq ft):

  • Red light therapy panels: $500-$1,500
  • Installation costs: $200-$500 (if built into new sauna)
  • Total cost: $700-$2,000

Commercial saunas require much higher budgets – often $3,000-$10,000+ for equipment and professional installation.

The investment can pay off through more effective sauna sessions and reduced need for other therapies and treatments.

Conclusion

Combining red light therapy and sauna use is certainly an intriguing concept supported by sound science. Those looking to amplify the many potential wellness benefits of saunas may find this integration worthwhile and advantageous. However, proper safety precautions and smart device choices are necessary to create an optimal setup. With prudent planning and reasonable expectations, the synergistic potential of red light-enhanced saunas can be tapped into conveniently at home or more robustly in commercial facilities. Just be sure to consult your doctor before adopting any new therapies.