Can You Do Infrared Sauna Everyday? The REAL Benefits & Risks

Can you really do infrared sauna everyday? Are there any potential adverse effects to doing so?

Well friend, if you’re anything like me, who tends to take everything to the extreme (including sauna blogging, apparently) then this article is for you.

We’re going to dive into the science behind infrared sauna, whether you should do infrared sauna everyday, and the potential impact it may have on your health.

Let’s get cooking on this topic shall we? (pun intended)

Can You Do Infrared Sauna Everyday?

Is it okay to use an infrared sauna every day? Yes, for most people, daily sessions are fine. However, individual responses can vary. For instance, a friend found that daily infrared sauna sessions significantly improved her sleep and reduced her joint pain, highlighting the personal benefits of regular use.

Starting slowly is important, especially if you’re new to infrared saunas. Begin with a few sessions per week and observe how your body reacts. If you feel good, you can gradually increase the frequency.

Important Reminder: What works for one person may not suit another. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have any health concerns. The key is to enjoy the benefits of the infrared sauna without overdoing it.

Woman laying in robe in a sauna with a pillow

How Often Should You Use an Infrared Sauna?

Regarding the frequency of using an infrared sauna, the answer varies based on individual factors and wellness goals. For more detailed insights and personal experiences with infrared sauna usage, you can explore further on this comprehensive guide.

Consider Your Sauna Tolerance

For beginners, starting with shorter, less frequent sessions, such as 15-25 minutes, twice a week is recommended. As you become more accustomed to the heat, you can gradually increase your sessions’ duration and frequency. 

Intermediate users opt for 20-30 minute sessions 3-4 times per week, while regular users can enjoy 30-60 minute sessions as often as they feel comfortable.

Consider Your Health & Wellness Goals

The purpose behind your infrared sauna sessions can influence how often you should use it. For relaxation, once or twice a week might suffice, but more frequent sessions could be beneficial for goals like muscle recovery or stress relief.

Personalizing Your Infrared Sauna Routine

As a sauna user and enthusiast, I’ve learned that personalizing your infrared sauna routine is vital to maximizing its benefits. It’s not just about deciding how often you should use infrared sauna; it’s about tailoring each session to fit your lifestyle and wellness goals. 

Here are some ways I’ve integrated infrared sauna sessions into my routine:

  1. Post-Workout Recovery: After a gym session, a 20-minute session in my infrared sauna helps with muscle recovery and reduces sore muscles. It’s a great way to relax and rejuvenate.
  2. Morning Energy Boost: I start my mornings with a brief infrared sauna session on days I’m not hitting the gym. It helps to increase my energy levels and prepares me for the day ahead.
  3. Evening Relaxation: I often schedule a 30-minute infrared sauna session in the evening to ensure restful sleep. It’s a peaceful way to unwind and relieve the day’s stress, including meditation.
  4. Weekend Wellness: During weekends, I indulge in a longer infrared sauna session, focusing on stress relief and relaxing deeply. This helps in maintaining a consistent wellness routine.
  5. Targeted Health Benefits: Depending on my current health focus, whether weight loss or improving skin conditions, I adjust the frequency and duration of my infrared sauna sessions accordingly.
Woman and man sitting with eyes closed in sauna practicing mindfulness meditation

Understanding the Risks of Daily Infrared Sauna Use

While infrared saunas offer numerous health benefits, it’s important to know the potential risks associated with daily use. Here are seven key risks to consider:

  1. Dehydration: Frequent infrared sauna sessions can lead to dehydration due to excessive sweating. Drinking plenty of water before and after each session is crucial to maintain hydration levels.
  2. Overheating and Heat Exhaustion: Prolonged exposure to infrared heat can raise your core temperature to unsafe levels, potentially leading to heat exhaustion, especially if sessions are too long or frequent.
  3. Blood Pressure Fluctuations: For individuals with heart disease or blood pressure issues, daily sauna use can cause significant fluctuations in blood pressure, posing a health risk.
  4. Worsening of Certain Skin Conditions: While some find relief for their skin conditions in an infrared sauna, others may experience worsening, especially with daily use.
  5. Risk of Fainting: The combination of high heat and standing up quickly after a session can lead to dizziness or fainting, particularly if you use the sauna daily.
  6. Muscle Weakness: Overuse of saunas can lead to muscle soreness and weakness, counteracting the benefits of muscle recovery that saunas typically provide.
  7. Interference with Medications: For those on certain medications, the intense heat of a daily infrared sauna session can interfere with the effectiveness of these medications or cause adverse reactions.

When to Avoid Infrared Sauna Sessions

While infrared saunas can be beneficial, there are times when it’s best to avoid them. Here are five scenarios where skipping a session is advisable:

  1. During Illness: If you’re suffering from a fever or an acute infection, avoid the sauna as it can exacerbate your condition.
  2. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should refrain from sauna use due to the risk of overheating and potential complications.
  3. Heart Conditions: Those with unstable heart conditions or severe heart disease should avoid saunas, as the heat can strain the cardiovascular system.
  4. Severe Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions can worsen with the heat and sweating in a sauna.
  5. Immediately After Exercise: Allow your body to cool down and rehydrate before entering a sauna to avoid excessive stress on the body.
A middle age man and woman with towels around necks enjoying a sauna with wood panelling

Tips for a Safe and Effective Infrared Sauna Session

To ensure a safe and beneficial infrared sauna experience, here are ten tips:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session.
  2. Start Slow: Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration.
  3. Monitor Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel during the session; exit the sauna if you feel dizzy or uncomfortable.
  4. Avoid Alcohol: Don’t use the sauna if you’ve consumed alcohol.
  5. Consult Your Doctor: Get medical advice first if you have health concerns or conditions.
  6. Don’t Overdo It: Limit your sessions to a safe duration and frequency.
  7. Cool Down Afterward: Allow your body to cool down after a session gradually.
  8. Cleanse Your Skin: Shower after your session to remove sweat and toxins from your skin.
  9. Rest After Your Session: Give your body time to recover and enjoy the relaxation benefits.
  10. Listen to Your Body: Everyone’s tolerance is different; tailor your sessions to what feels right.

Balancing Safety and Benefits in Daily Infrared Sauna Use

When considering daily infrared sauna use, balancing safety with the potential benefits is crucial. While infrared saunas can offer numerous health advantages, understanding your body’s limits is key. Only some people can or should use an infrared sauna every day. It’s essential to prioritize your comfort and safety, listening to your body’s responses after each session.

Be aware of the risks involved in overusing infrared saunas. Excessive use can lead to dehydration, overheating, or even exacerbate certain health conditions. It’s asking, “Can you do infrared sauna every day?” and “Should you?

Pro Tip for Sauna Beginners: If you need clarification on how often you should use an infrared sauna, consider consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Remember, the goal is to enhance wellness, not to compromise it.

Final Thoughts

Alright folks, let’s wrap this up. To summarize what we’ve learned in this article:

  • Personalized Approach: It’s generally safe to infrared sauna everyday for most, but individual experiences vary. Start slow, especially if you’re new, and pay attention to how your body responds.
  • Health Benefits and Cautions:
    • The potential benefits very likely outweigh the risks, but be aware of what your body is telling you.
    • Key cautions involve staying hydrated and being mindful of risks like overheating and blood pressure changes.
  • Incorporating Sauna into Your Routine:
    • Flexible enough for various lifestyles – from post-workout recovery to morning energy boosts.
    • Tailor sauna sessions to fit personal wellness goals.
  • Times to Skip the Sauna:
    • Avoid during illness, pregnancy, or if you have heart conditions.
    • Not recommended immediately after intense physical exertion.

We hope you’ve learned a thing or two in this article. If you have any questions or comments, please hit us up on social or send us on a note on our contact page. And as always, stay warm, friends!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it okay to infrared sauna everyday?

Yes, using an infrared sauna daily is generally okay as long as you listen to your body and stay hydrated. However, individual tolerance varies, so starting slowly and adjusting is important based on how you feel.

Can you overuse an infrared sauna?

Yes, overusing an infrared sauna can lead to dehydration and overheating and might exacerbate certain health conditions. It’s crucial to balance the frequency of your sessions with your body’s needs and reactions. 

If you’re looking for more detailed guidance on finding the right balance, consider exploring this insightful resource on how long you should stay in a sauna. This information can help you tailor your sauna sessions to ensure they are safe and effective.

Should you wait to shower after infrared sauna?

It’s recommended to wait before showering after an infrared sauna session. Cooling down naturally for 10-15 minutes helps your body regulate its temperature and enhances detoxification.

Is an infrared sauna good for your heart?

Taking a sauna before bedtime helps relax your body and mind. This relaxation can make falling asleep easier and improve the quality of your sleep.

DISCLAIMER: We are not medical professionals, nor do we claim to be. Always consult your doctor or a medical professional if you have pre-existing medical conditions or have concerns about your health.

A message from Sauna Squad

We hope we’ve provided some value in your research. But if you have any questions or concerns, hit us up on Instagram @thesaunasquad or feel free to fire us a message on our contact page.

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