How Hot Do Infrared Saunas Get? (And Why it Matters)

Hey everyone, Paul here from Sauna Squad again. I’ve written about an adjacent topic in the past (the best temperature for infrared saunas) but we’ve never actually addressed how hot infrared saunas actually get. It’s a common question we get asked quite a bit from newbies in the infrared sauna world so I figured I’d sit down and share some info on the topic.

To start, it’s helpful to understand normal body temperature. Most people’s core temperature hovers around 98.6°F (37°C for us metric folks), though there is some variance between individuals. If your body gets too warm, your brain triggers sweating as a way to cool down.

Infrared saunas heat the body differently than traditional hot-air or “conventional” saunas by allowing the infrared wavelengths to penetrate the skin and warm muscles and joints below the surface. 

This makes lower overall indoor temperatures feel much hotter. Most infrared saunas operate within the temperature range of 130-150°F (54-65°C). My Finnleo 3 Person Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna has a max temperature setting of 150°F (65°C), although with my body heat radiating, I have seen the thermometer touch slightly higher than that.

However, just because that’s the MAXIMUM temperature, it certainly does not mean it is the optimal temperature. So with that, let’s dive into this topic a little further to learn more about it.

Understanding Infrared Sauna Temperatures

Infrared saunas differ from traditional hot-air or “conventional” saunas in the type of heat used. Rather than relying solely on heated air to raise indoor temperatures, infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit infrared wavelengths that directly penetrate the skin.

This allows them to achieve comparable therapeutic effects to traditional steam saunas at lower overall indoor temperatures. Most infrared saunas operate in a range of 130-150°F (54-65°C), compared to 170-212°F (77-100°C) for conventional units.

The deeper penetration of infrared heat means it can warm muscles, joints and internal organs and heat the skin and air around you. This makes lower temperature settings in an infrared sauna feel relatively hotter than a traditional hot box-style sauna.

Infrared saunas maintain healthy humidity levels from the user’s sweat instead of adding steam like some traditional models. The recommended temperature range aims to induce profuse sweating for health benefits without causing overexertion or unsafe hyperthermia.

By understanding how infrared saunas function differently with their targeted wavelength heat, users can better identify the ideal temperature for their needs and safety while still enjoying the transformative effects of sauna therapy.

A man and woman enjoying infrared sauna - what to expect after infrared sauna

How Hot Do Infrared Saunas Get?

Infrared saunas stand out for their unique heating method. Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, infrared saunas use infrared heaters to warm your body directly. 

This means they operate at lower temperatures, typically between 115-135°F (46-56°C). 

At this range, you can enjoy all the perks of infrared sauna therapy, such as boosted blood flow and heart health, without discomfort in a too-hot environment.

Finding the Ideal Temperature for Your Infrared Sauna Session

There’s a bit of a debate about the perfect infrared sauna temperature. However, the consensus falls between 115-135°F (46-56°C). This “sweet spot” allows for effective sauna sessions without the risk of overheating.

Now, let’s break down this temperature range further to see what each level means for different sauna goers: 

Temperature Range Heat LevelSauna Goer Experience LevelPrecautions
100-110°F (38-43°C)Quite WarmBeginnerStay hydrated
111-120°F (43-49°C)WarmIntermediateMonitor time & hydration
121-130°F (49-54°C)HotIntermediate to AdvancedLimit session to 20 min
131-140°F (54-60°C)Very HotExpertEnsure you’re medically fit to handle it
141-150°F (60-65°C)Extreme HeatExpertEnsure you’re medically fit to handle it

Monitoring your comfort and properly cooling off prevents unsafe conditions. Over time, consistent sauna goers understand their limits at various infrared sauna temperatures. This allows for maximizing wellness benefits safely.

Impact of Infrared Sauna Temperatures on Our Body

Wondering if sitting in an infrared sauna does anything for our health? The short answer is yes – exposure to the correct sauna temperatures can provide immediate and long-term benefits.

When discussing how hot infrared saunas get, we usually look at a range of 115-135°F (46-56°C). This range is ideal for harnessing the benefits of infrared sauna therapy without risking discomfort or overheating.

In the moment, the infrared heat blasting your skin triggers sweating and your core temperature to rise slightly. This physiological response has been shown to help the body rid toxins through sweat and improve blood circulation around major organs.

Some other effects the proper heat levels (usually 115-135°F) can provide include natural relaxation as your muscles unwind, decreased stress and pain sensation in tissues, and an afterglow similar to what many feel after exercise.

Long-term, regular sauna sessions (even just 1-2 times per week) have research backing reduced risk of heart disease, sensitivity to heat and colds, improved heart rate variability, and better overall well-being.

So, in summary – yes! Exposure to an infrared sauna within the recommended range impacts our bodies with a wide variety of benefits, both immediately and over the long run. It’s a powerful wellness practice.

Woman laying in robe in a sauna with a pillow

13 Tips to Make Your Infrared Sauna Hotter (and More Relaxing)

Getting the most out of your infrared sauna means ensuring it’s not just warm enough but also offers a relaxing experience. 

If you’ve ever thought your “infrared sauna not hot enough” or wondered “how hot does infrared sauna get,” these tips are for you. They’re all about boosting the heat effectively and enjoying every moment of your sauna session.

1. Adjust Temperature Settings Regularly

Adjusting the temperature settings on your infrared sauna regularly allows you to find the ideal heat level for your comfort and health. Experiment with different settings until you reach your desired temperature range.

2. Preheat Your Sauna

Preheating your sauna for at least 10 to 15 minutes before your session ensures it reaches the optimal temperature for a more effective sweat session.

3. Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining consistent heat levels inside the sauna. Ensure the vents are clear and open to allow for adequate airflow, promoting even heat distribution.

4. Wear Suitable Clothing

Choosing lightweight, breathable clothing for your sauna session allows for better absorption of infrared heat, enhancing your overall experience. For guidance on what to wear, check out our article on What to Wear in a Sauna.

5. Explore Infrared Sauna Colors

Adding colored lights to your sauna can create a soothing ambiance and enhance relaxation. Experiment with different colors to find the ones that best suit your mood and preferences. Learn more about incorporating colors into your sauna experience in our article on Infrared Sauna Colors.

6. Understand Infrared Emissivity on Human Skin

Understanding how infrared energy interacts with your skin can help you optimize your sauna sessions. Higher emissivity means better absorption of infrared heat, leading to a more effective and comfortable experience. Learn more about infrared sauna emissivity here.

7. Consider Adding Infrared Heaters

Adding infrared heaters to your sauna can increase the heat output, making it hotter and more effective. Consult with a sauna specialist to determine the best placement and type of heaters for your sauna setup.

8. Experiment with Session Lengths

Experimenting with different session lengths allows you to find the optimal duration for your sauna sessions. Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the time as your body acclimates to the heat.

You can also try my calculator, which answers “How Long to Stay in a Sauna.” It can be a great help for your infrared sauna sessions.

9. Optimize Your Positioning

Position yourself strategically within the sauna to ensure maximum exposure to the infrared heat. Sit or lie down comfortably, ensuring that all parts of your body are evenly exposed to the heat.

10. Monitor Humidity Levels

Monitoring humidity levels inside the sauna can help maintain a comfortable environment. Aim for a balance that enhances your sauna experience without making it feel too stifling or dry.

11. Use Heat-Resistant Accessories

Investing in heat-resistant accessories like towels and mats enhances your comfort and safety during sauna sessions, providing a barrier between your body and the hot surfaces.

Here are some of my compilations of products or infrared sauna accessories you can consider: 

  1. Best Sauna Pillows For Comfort Support
  2. Amazing Sauna Backrests for Best Back Support

12. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated before, during, and after your sauna session helps regulate your body temperature and promotes sweating, ensuring a comfortable and effective experience.

13. Relax and Enjoy

Above all, remember to relax and enjoy your sauna experience. Focus on deep breathing, clear your mind, and allow yourself to unwind in the soothing heat of the sauna fully.

By implementing these tips, you can make your infrared sauna sessions hotter and more relaxing, maximizing your health and well-being benefits. 

If you’re still experiencing issues with your sauna temperature, check out our article on Why Am I Not Sweating In An Infrared Sauna? for additional tips and information.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, understanding the ideal temperature ranges for infrared saunas and how to optimize various factors is key to maximizing the health benefits of sauna therapy safely and comfortably. 

Key takeaways from our detailed guide are:

  • Infrared saunas deliver many of the therapeutic effects of traditional steam saunas, yet at lower temperatures between 115-135°F (47-57°C), thanks to their penetrating infrared wavelengths rather than heated air alone.
  • Consistently checking your comfort level with different temperature settings, durations and positions allows finding your “sweet spot” over time.
  • Small tweaks like preheating, ventilation, hydration, proper accessories, and limited movement can significantly boost your experience without drastically reducing heat.

Thank you for reading, folks! We hope you’ve picked up a tip to try in your sauna routine. We’re excited to keep connecting with you through our social platforms and newsletter until we meet again. 

Disclaimer: 

Always chat with a healthcare expert before making big changes to your wellness plan. While infrared saunas can bring great health perks, everyone’s different. It’s key to adjust any wellness habit and be well-informed to fit your health situation and lifestyle for success and safety.

FAQs

Is 130 Degrees Hot Enough for Infrared Sauna?

Yes, 130°F (54°C) is definitely hot enough, especially for beginners. Infrared saunas heat your body directly with infrared light. This means you don’t need the air to be as hot as in traditional saunas to feel the warmth and get the health benefits. 

Is 20 Minutes in an Infrared Sauna Enough?

Yes, 20 minutes is a good amount of time. This is long enough to let the infrared heat do its job, like helping your blood flow better and making you relax. Starting with 20 minutes is especially good for those who are new to saunas.

What Is the Best Infrared Sauna Temp for a Beginnner?

If you’re just starting, try setting it between 100-110°F (37-43°C). This is a gentle way to get used to the heat without it being too intense. As you get more comfortable, you can slowly increase the temperature to find what’s best for you.

How Long Should It Take an Infrares Sauna To Heat Up?

It should take about 10-15 minutes for your sauna to warm up. This can depend on the sauna model and the room’s temperature. Preheating makes sure the sauna is ready for you, so you get the full benefit right from the start.

Why Is My Infrared Sauna Not Heating Up?

There could be a few reasons why your sauna isn’t getting warm:

  • First, check if it’s plugged in correctly and the power source is on.
  • The heaters might not be working right.
  • The thermostat could be set wrong or not working.
  • Also, if the sauna isn’t ventilated properly, it might not heat up well.

If you’ve checked these things and it’s still not heating up, it might be time to call the manufacturer or a repair person.

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