When you hear about infrared saunas, it sounds like a dream. Heat therapy, detox, glowing skin—what’s not to love? But I wanted to know what dermatologists really think. Are they fans? Or do they see risks that most people miss?
Let’s dig into the facts together.
First, What Is an Infrared Sauna?
If you’ve only seen traditional saunas, this will sound different.
Instead of heating the air, infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly. This means the room can stay cooler, but you still sweat like crazy. The heat comes from light waves you can’t see, but you can feel.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, infrared saunas are popular for relaxation and circulation benefits (source).
Why People Love Infrared Saunas
Here’s what draws people in:
Lower temperature comfort: Easier to handle than 190°F traditional saunas.
Deep heat penetration: Claims to reach muscle tissue faster.
Skin glow hype: Some say it boosts collagen and clears pores.
Sounds amazing, right? But what do skin doctors think?
What Do Dermatologists Say About Infrared Saunas?
Here’s the truth: most dermatologists agree that infrared saunas are generally safe for healthy skin. But there’s a catch—they don’t think it’s a magic cure for all skin issues.
I found several expert opinions, and they share some common points:
Mild benefits: Sweating can help clear pores, but don’t expect it to replace a good skincare routine.
Not for everyone: People with eczema, rosacea, or very sensitive skin may react badly to heat.
Hydration matters: Heat can dry your skin, so moisturizing after is a must.
Dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian told Well+Good that infrared heat is less harsh than UV, but you still need to listen to your body and limit sessions.
Does It Really Help Your Skin?
Some studies suggest infrared therapy may boost circulation and improve skin tone slightly (NIH). That increased blood flow could mean better nutrient delivery to the skin.
But big promises like “anti-aging miracle” or “detox through sweat” aren’t backed by solid science. You’ll sweat out water, not toxins.
Dermatologists’ Main Concerns
I want to share the top concerns I saw repeated in expert interviews:
Heat flare-ups: If you have rosacea, heat can make redness worse.
Dehydration: Losing water means your skin might feel tight and dry.
Burn risk: Rare, but possible if the sauna isn’t set up correctly.
Most agree that if you have skin conditions or take certain medications, talk to your doctor first.
How to Use Infrared Saunas Safely
Here’s what dermatologists recommend:
Limit sessions to 15–30 minutes.
Stay hydrated before and after.
Moisturize once you’re done to prevent dryness.
Skip it if your skin feels irritated or sensitive.
You see, it’s not about fear—it’s about smart use.
Are Infrared Saunas Better Than Traditional Saunas for Skin?
Good question. Dermatologists say the benefits for skin are similar because both make you sweat. But infrared saunas may feel gentler since the air temperature is lower.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Infrared Sauna | Traditional Sauna |
| Heat source | Infrared light | Heated air |
| Temperature | 120–140°F | 160–190°F |
| Skin effect | Mild hydration loss | Higher dehydration risk |
| Comfort | Easier for beginners | Feels more intense |
What About Weight Loss and Detox Claims?
Let’s clear this up. Dermatologists don’t promote saunas as weight loss tools. The pounds you lose in a session are water weight. It comes back when you drink water.
As for detox, your liver and kidneys do the heavy lifting. Sweating helps with temperature control, not toxin removal.
Who Should Avoid Infrared Saunas?
Experts say people with:
Heart problems
Severe skin conditions
Low blood pressure
should talk to their doctor first.
Also, kids and pregnant women? Better to skip it unless cleared by a physician.
My Take After Reading Dermatologists’ Advice
If you’re healthy and want to try an infrared sauna for relaxation, go for it. But manage your expectations. It’s not a cure-all. And if your skin is sensitive, start slow.
For me, the biggest lesson is this: hydration and moderation make all the difference.
Looking for Infrared Sauna Options?
If you’re considering one for home or business use, check these:
Far infrared sauna dealers for quality units
Far infrared sauna room wholesalers for bulk supply
Far infrared sauna distributors for B2B partnerships
Far infrared sauna manufacturers for custom designs
Final Thoughts
So, what do dermatologists think of infrared saunas? They see them as safe for most people, helpful for relaxation, and mildly good for circulation. But they don’t see them as a miracle for skin health.
If you use them wisely, you’ll enjoy the warmth without harming your skin. Just keep your water bottle and moisturizer close.