What Is a Sauna Blanket & Do Infrared Sauna Blankets Work?

In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of at-home wellness products, and one item that has gained significant attention is the infrared sauna blanket. These portable and convenient devices claim to offer the benefits of traditional saunas in the comfort of your own home. But do infrared sauna blankets really work? In this article, we will delve into the science behind these personal saunas, explore their potential health benefits, and discuss important safety considerations.

What are Infrared Sauna Blankets?

Infrared sauna blankets are designed to mimic the experience of a traditional sauna but in a more compact and portable form. They typically resemble a sleeping bag with built-in heating elements that emit infrared rays. These rays penetrate the body, raising its core temperature and inducing a sweat response similar to that of a traditional sauna. Learn more about the sauna blanket vs sauna with our informational guide.

Design and Functionality

The design of infrared sauna blankets is straightforward and user-friendly. Most infrared blankets are made from high-quality materials that are both heat-resistant and comfortable to the touch. They often feature adjustable straps or fastenings to ensure a snug fit and even heat distribution.

The heating elements in infrared sauna blankets emit infrared rays, which are a type of electromagnetic radiation with longer wavelengths than visible light. These rays penetrate the skin and warm the body from within, leading to an increase in core temperature and inducing a sweat response.² Learn more about infrared vs traditional saunas in our blog.

Popular Choices

When it comes to infrared sauna blankets, there are several popular brands that offer a range of options to choose from. Lifepro’s sauna blankets are known for their high-quality and reliable products. Users have reported positive experiences with Lifepro infrared blankets, like the BioRemedy, praising their effectiveness and ease of use. Additionally, online reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other customers, helping you make an informed decision.

The Science Behind Infrared Sauna Blankets

To understand whether infrared sauna blankets work, it's important to delve into the science behind their functionality. These blankets rely on the principles of electromagnetic radiation and heat application to provide potential health benefits.³

Electromagnetic Radiation

Infrared rays fall within the electromagnetic spectrum, with longer wavelengths than visible light. When these rays come into contact with living tissues, they are absorbed, leading to an increase in tissue temperature. This process is often referred to as "deep heating" and is believed to stimulate various physiological responses in the body.

Temperature Range

Infrared sauna blankets typically offer a temperature range of 100-150°F (37-65°C). This range allows individuals to customize their experience based on personal preferences and comfort levels. It is important to note that the temperature range may vary depending on the specific brand or model of the sauna blanket.

Potential Health Benefits

Now, let's explore the potential health benefits of infrared sauna blankets. While further research is needed to fully understand the extent of these benefits, preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest several positive outcomes.⁴

Detoxification

One of the most widely claimed benefits of infrared sauna blankets is detoxification. Sweating is a natural mechanism through which the body eliminates toxins. The heat generated by infrared rays in sauna blankets can promote sweating, potentially aiding in the mobilization and removal of various toxins from the body.

Scientific studies have shown that sweat induced by sauna use contains a wide range of potentially harmful substances, such as heavy metals and volatile organic compounds.¹ Regular use of infrared sauna blankets may help support the body's natural detoxification processes.

Muscle Recovery and Pain Relief

Heat application has long been recognized for its potential to promote muscle recovery and alleviate pain. Infrared sauna blankets, by raising the body's core temperature, increase blood flow to sore muscles, which can aid in the repair process and reduce post-workout soreness and even chronic pain.

Furthermore, infrared sauna blankets have shown promise in providing relief for specific musculoskeletal conditions. Research suggests that the deep heating effect of infrared rays may be beneficial for individuals with knee osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and other similar conditions by reducing pain and improving overall physical function.¹

Cardiovascular Health

In addition to its potential benefits for muscle recovery and pain relief, the use of infrared sauna blankets may also have positive effects on cardiovascular health. Studies have indicated that regular sauna use can help improve heart function and normalize blood pressure.¹

The increase in core temperature caused by infrared sauna blankets leads to dilation of blood vessels and increased blood flow. This improved blood circulation can have a positive impact on cardiovascular health, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and supporting overall cardiovascular function.

Safety and Considerations

While infrared sauna blankets can offer potential health benefits, it is important to consider safety precautions and determine whether they are suitable for your individual circumstances.

Who Should Avoid Sauna Blankets?

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid using sauna blankets altogether. Pregnant individuals should consult with their healthcare provider before using infrared sauna blankets, as the increase in core body temperature may pose risks to the developing fetus.

People with heart conditions should also approach sauna blanket use with caution. The increase in core temperature and heart rate that occurs during sauna sessions may place additional strain on the cardiovascular system.⁴ It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using sauna blankets if you have a heart condition.

Additionally, children should not use infrared sauna blankets without the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. Their bodies may struggle to regulate temperature effectively, making them more susceptible to overheating.

Precautions and Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential when using infrared sauna blankets. Sweating can lead to fluid loss, so it is important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after each session. Adequate hydration will help prevent dehydration and maintain overall well-being.

It is also important to listen to your body and take breaks if you feel lightheaded, dizzy, or uncomfortable during a sauna blanket session. Overheating can be dangerous, so it is crucial to monitor your body's response and adjust the duration and temperature accordingly.

Choosing the Right Sauna Blanket

When selecting an infrared sauna blanket, there are several factors to consider. The materials used should be heat-resistant and comfortable against the skin. It is also important to consider your budget, as sauna blankets can vary in price.

Temperature range is another important factor to consider. Different individuals may have different temperature preferences and tolerances, so choosing a sauna blanket with a temperature range that suits your sauna treatment needs is essential.

Safety features, such as automatic shut-off timers, should also be considered. These features can provide peace of mind and prevent overheating or accidental burns.

Finally, size and design are important considerations. Ensure that the sauna blanket you choose fits your body comfortably and allows for easy movement. Some sauna blankets also offer hands-free designs, which can enhance the overall user experience.

Bringing the Sauna Experience Home with Lifepro

Infrared sauna blankets have gained popularity due to their convenience and potential health benefits. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and extent of these benefits, preliminary evidence suggests that sauna blankets may support detoxification, aid in muscle recovery and pain relief, and contribute to cardiovascular health.¹

As with any wellness product, it is important to approach infrared sauna blankets with caution and consider individual circumstances. Pregnant individuals, those with heart conditions, and children should consult with healthcare professionals before using sauna blankets.

By choosing the right sauna blanket, staying hydrated, and practicing proper safety precautions, individuals can bring the sauna experience into their homes with products like Lifepro sauna blankets. So go ahead and start exploring the different types of infrared saunas and enjoy the convenience and potential health benefits of infrared sauna therapy in the comfort of your own home, and remember to listen to your body and prioritize your well-being throughout your sauna sessions.

Stay tuned for more informative articles on wellness and the latest trends in at-home health products. Embrace the journey to a healthier, happier you with Lifepro’s collection of the best infrared sauna blankets.

Sources:

1. Shui S, Wang X, Chiang JY, Zheng L. Far-infrared therapy for cardiovascular, autoimmune, and other chronic health problems: A systematic review [retracted in: Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2020 Aug;245(14):NP1]. Exp Biol Med (Maywood). 2015;240(10):1257-1265. doi:10.1177/1535370215573391
2. Beever R. Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors: summary of published evidence. Can Fam Physician. 2009;55(7):691-696
3. Henderson KN, Killen LG, O'Neal EK, Waldman HS. The Cardiometabolic Health Benefits of Sauna Exposure in Individuals with High-Stress Occupations. A Mechanistic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(3):1105. Published 2021 Jan 27. doi:10.3390/ijerph18031105
4. Hussain J, Cohen M. Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2018;2018:1857413. Published 2018 Apr 24. doi:10.1155/2018/1857413

Author

Joel Gottehrer

Joel Gottehrer is the Co-Founder of Lifepro Fitness and has dedicated his life to helping people transform theirs. With over 12 years of experience in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and owner of two personal training studios, Joel has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to helping transform lives. After suffering from physical injuries, Joel and his business partner, Abraham Brach, came together with a common goal to alleviate the pain caused by their injuries.

They continued to find themselves disappointed with the results stemming from various products promising to relieve their pain, and with that – Lifepro Fitness was born. Joel's mission is to have a positive impact on millions of lives with the Lifepro brand. Whether it's finding new and innovative ways to help people recover from injuries or developing products to improve overall wellness, Joel is always looking for ways to push the boundaries. Thanks to his commitment to help people live their lives free of pain, Lifepro has been able to do this for thousands of people since its founding in 2017.