New To Saunas: What To Wear In Infrared Sauna
If you are new to saunas, you may not know exactly what to wear in infrared sauna – both for modesty and health reasons. So let’s talk about all of the details. What to wear and why, temperature ranges, how to recover after taking a sauna, and so much more.
A few months ago I wrote a blog post on how I use my infrared sauna at home. Since that post, I have gotten questions about using a sauna, including what to wear in infrared sauna sessions. So I thought I would write a follow-up post discussing the details of sauna-ing and how you can get the best results.
In my previous post about using an infrared sauna, I discuss what my sauna session looks like, infrared heat versus a traditional sauna, and all of the health benefits attained by incorporating saunas into your wellness practice. If you want to read that post and all of its details, you can find it below.
Infrared Sauna Popularity
First off, let’s go over the many different types of infrared saunas one can use. Sauna-ing is becoming more and more popular and therefore sauna companies are coming up with less expensive but still quite effective various sauna models.
For example, infrared lamps, an infrared sauna blanket or infrared sauna pod, and sauna suits all heat the body and work quite well if you aren’t quite ready to invest in a full-fledged sauna, or you do not have enough space in your home.
Infrared Sauna Benefits
There are plenty of health benefits to using an infrared sauna. Aside from it just plain feeling good, there is research showing infrared saunas may help those who are dealing with chronic pain, depression, insomnia, and for quicker muscle recovery post-workout.
Infrared saunas can also help to improve one’s immune system. The hot air and infrared rays penetrate deep into the skin. As your heart rate and blood flow increase you begin to sweat, which helps to remove impurities from the body and can even aid in the detoxification of heavy metals.
Some say they experience weight loss when using infrared light and an infrared sauna but in my opinion, it is just water weight you are losing. You are more than likely going to gain that weight back after your sweat session is finished and you begin to rehydrate.
If it is your first time using a sauna, or you have any medical conditions, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor before stepping into a sauna. Things like high blood pressure, heart conditions, etc. can be exacerbated by the heat. Make sure to discuss your desire to try sauna-ing with your doctor prior to doing.
Infrared saunas are also not recommended for pregnant women.
What To Wear In Infrared Sauna
When it comes to what to wear in an infrared sauna, your best option is wearing breathable fabrics, like loose cotton clothing, versus synthetic materials.
If you are in a private room with a private sauna, or have your own home sauna, the best way to enjoy sauna-ing is to be clothing free, allowing the hot air and sauna heat to penetrate your bare skin.
That said, in a public sauna, wearing a bathing suit, sports bra, or tank top, and loose-fitting clothes are going to be a good choice. As little clothing as you are comfortable.
The best thing is to avoid tight clothes, long pants, etc., otherwise, you will absolutely overheat! If you are uncomfortable going au natural, then natural materials and loose-fitting clothing will be your best bet.
Temperature: Low & Slow
If you are new to using an infrared sauna and you find the heat uncomfortable, it is better to start at a lower temperature and then work your way up to a higher temperature slowly.
When I first started taking saunas, I kept the heat between 100°-120° Fahrenheit and sat for only 15-20 minutes. Now I am able to consistently sit in a sauna for 30-45 minutes at a temperature of 145° Fahrenheit and higher.
Hydration & What To Do After Your Sauna
No matter what you decide to wear in your far infrared sauna make sure to drink plenty of water. Soft drinks are a no-no as they are not hydrating. Save these type of drinks for later after recovery.
When you are finished in the sauna, make sure to take some time to cool down. I’d say at least 15 minutes.
Some people like to take a cold shower when they are through. Others take a warm shower. Either way is fine.
For the best experience, just make sure to cool down for about 15 minutes when you are done taking your sauna, let your heart rate slow, and drink plenty of water!
A Note Of Caution
Using an infrared sauna is amazing and luxurious but you do need to be mindful of your health and your body. Don’t push it and take it low and slow.
There are definitely things to watch out for, and HERE is a list of safeguards and contraindications for using an infrared sauna.
Give Sauna-ing A Try
Hopefully this has cleared up some questions regarding the ins and outs of using an infrared sauna – or any sauna for that matter.
I hope you are able to give sauna-ing a try soon. For me, as a busy caregiver, it is one of the most relaxing and therapeutic tools in my wellness toolbox!
CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO: Why I Love Using My Infrared Sauna At Home
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Also, you can follow me and my life on Cape Cod, on my Instagram page @parkinsons_and_us.
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