Have there been scientific studies on infrared therapy?

There have been quite a few studies on the health benefits of infrared therapy. The type of infrared produced by Sweat It saunas has been shown to increase core temperature to accelerate detoxification, lower blood pressure, relieve pain, and aid in weight loss.

Where are the infrared rays located in the sauna?

The infrared heaters are located on the floor, front, back, and side wall panels of the sauna. The lights in the sauna do not emit infrared rays.

How often should I use the sauna?

Just one session in a Sweat It sauna will refresh and rejuvenate you. But, as with exercise, you will see better results with regular use. We recommend you have 3 to 4 sessions per week for 30 to 40 minutes per session.

What should I wear?

To ensure infrared will penetrate tissues deeply, wear as little as possible; for example, a bamboo carbon body wrap, cotton towel, gym shorts, or swimsuit.

Will I sweat a lot right away?

There is a lot of natural variation in how much individual human beings will sweat. You may not sweat at all during the first few infrared sessions. With regular use of the Sweat It sauna, the amount that you sweat will increase. Remember—even if you don’t sweat much, your body will still be releasing toxins. Ensuring you are hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your session will also help you sweat more.

Do you require a doctor’s note to use the sauna?

We don’t require a doctor’s note, but there are some contraindications to infrared sauna use. See below for more information. If you have any health-related concerns about using the sauna, talk to your doctor before use.

Is it safe for children to use the sauna?

Yes, with some caveats. The core body temperature of children rises much faster than that of adults. When using the sauna with a child, operate it at a lower temperature and for less time. A general rule of thumb is one minute inside the sauna for every year of the child’s age. Children must always be accompanied by an adult in the sauna. And remember to keep you and your children hydrated, even if you don’t see them sweating.

Can I use the sauna if I am elderly?

Yes, with certain considerations. As we age, our ability to maintain our core body temperature decreases, mainly because of circulatory conditions and lowered sweat gland function. Your body must be able to activate its natural cooling system to properly maintain core body temperature while in a sauna. If you are elderly, it is recommended that when using our saunas you operate them at a lower temperature and for no more than 15 minutes at a time.

Is it safe to use the sauna while breastfeeding?

Generally speaking, yes, but please consult with your physician if you have any concerns.

Is it safe to use the sauna if I am pregnant?

Infrared is not recommended for use while pregnant. During pregnancy, the core body temperature is already elevated, so overheating becomes more likely.

Can I use the sauna if I am menstruating?

Yes, but be aware that heating the lower back area during menstruation can temporarily increase menstrual flow. If you have any conditions that increase your tendency to bleed, consult with your doctor before using the sauna while menstruating.

You should consult with your doctor before using an infrared sauna if:

• You are taking prescription medications, especially diuretics, barbiturates, beta-blockers, blood-thinners, anticholinergics (e.g. amitriptyline), or antihistamines, as these can have a variety of effects on the body under infrared heat, including a tendency toward overheating.
• You have any cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension, hypotension, or congestive heart failure, because heat can cause an increase in heart rate, which may put undue stress on the heart.
• You have any condition or disease associated with reduced ability to perspire (sweat), such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes with neuropathy, or central nervous system tumors.
• You have any implants, including metal pins, rods, artificial joints, or any other surgical implants. While these generally reflect infrared waves and are not heated by the sauna, it is still a good idea to consult with your doctor before use.
• You have a pacemaker or defibrillator, as the magnets used to assemble our wooden saunas can interrupt pacing and inhibit the output of pacemakers.

Q. You should not use an infrared sauna if:

• You have hemophilia or any condition that makes you prone to bleeding.
• You have a fever.
• You have ingested alcohol, which reduces the ability to accurately judge the body’s reaction to high heat and increases heart rate—which is further increased by heat stress.
• You are insensitive to heat, and are unable to determine whether your body is having a negative reaction to heat stress.
• You have had a joint injury in the last 48 hours, or have chronically swollen joints that may respond poorly to any kind of vigorous heating.
• You are pregnant, because pregnancy causes the core body temperature to become elevated. This makes overheating more likely.