Infrared saunas are gaining popularity for their ability to help with everything from detoxification and stress relief to chronic pain and inflammation. But do they actually work—and are they worth the hype?

At Sheen Vein & Cosmetics in St. Louis, we incorporate infrared sauna therapy into many of our functional and regenerative medicine protocols. When used correctly, infrared therapy can be a powerful tool to support healing, recovery, and long-term wellness.

Here’s what you need to know about how infrared saunas help—and when they may be right for you.

What Is an Infrared Sauna?

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared light to directly warm your body. These wavelengths penetrate deep into the skin and tissues, promoting internal heat without making the air uncomfortably hot.

There are three types of infrared light used in saunas:

• Near-infrared (short wavelength): Stimulates skin and surface healing
• Mid-infrared (medium wavelength): Targets joints and soft tissue
• Far-infrared (long wavelength): Promotes deep detoxification and circulatory support

Some modern saunas combine all three for full-spectrum infrared therapy, which is what we often recommend for our St. Louis patients.

What Are the Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy?

1. Supports Detoxification

Your skin is your largest detox organ—and sweating is one of the most efficient ways to release toxins like heavy metals, BPA, phthalates, and environmental pollutants.

Unlike traditional sweat from exercise, infrared sauna sessions produce a deeper, more cellular-level sweat. We often pair infrared therapy with binders or antioxidants in patients undergoing detox protocols.

Learn more: Heavy Metal Toxicity and Functional Detox

2. Reduces Inflammation and Pain

Infrared heat increases blood flow and promotes the release of nitric oxide, which improves circulation and oxygen delivery to muscles and joints. This can:

• Decrease chronic inflammation
• Relieve joint stiffness and muscle soreness
• Improve flexibility and range of motion

We use this in combination with therapies like PRF for joint pain, PEMF therapy, or red light treatments for a full regenerative protocol.

3. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Studies show that regular use of infrared saunas may:

• Lower blood pressure
• Improve endothelial function
• Reduce arterial stiffness

This makes sauna therapy an excellent addition for patients with cardiovascular risk factors, mild hypertension, or poor circulation.

4. Enhances Skin Health and Anti-Aging

Sweating promotes clearer skin by opening pores and boosting lymphatic drainage. Near-infrared light in particular may also help with:

• Collagen production
• Skin elasticity
• Wound healing

That’s why many of our aesthetic patients incorporate infrared sessions as part of their post-treatment recovery or skin health maintenance plan.

Explore more: Benefits of Red Light Bed and PEMF Therapy

5. Supports Relaxation and Sleep

Infrared heat activates your parasympathetic nervous system (rest-and-digest mode), making it easier to unwind and sleep better. For patients with chronic stress, adrenal dysfunction, or insomnia, this is a game changer.

We often pair infrared sauna use with magnesium supplementation, adaptogenic herbs, or guided breathwork techniques to enhance recovery.

How to Use Infrared Saunas Safely and Effectively

If you’re considering adding infrared sauna therapy to your wellness routine, here are some clinician-approved tips:

• Start slow: Begin with 10–15 minute sessions at 110–120°F and gradually increase to 30–40 minutes.
• Hydrate well: Drink filtered water before and after to prevent dehydration.
• Use post-detox support: Consider adding binders like activated charcoal or glutathione after sessions if you're doing a detox protocol.
• Listen to your body: Lightheadedness, fatigue, or palpitations may signal that your body needs a break or a slower ramp-up.

We tailor sauna use based on your health history, goals, and any active conditions (such as cardiovascular issues, thyroid imbalance, or electrolyte concerns).

Who Should Avoid or Modify Sauna Use?

While most people tolerate infrared saunas well, we offer caution in the following cases:

• Pregnancy
• Severe hypotension or autonomic dysfunction
• Implanted devices (e.g., pacemakers)
• Active infections or open wounds

Always consult with your provider before beginning a new therapy, especially if you have complex medical conditions or are on medications that affect blood pressure or hydration.

Our St. Louis Infrared Therapy Protocols

At Sheen Vein & Cosmetics, we integrate full-spectrum infrared sauna therapy into care plans for:

• Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
• Detoxification and heavy metal removal
• Autoimmune conditions
• Post-laser or aesthetic treatment recovery
• Cardiovascular support
• Athletic performance and recovery

Whether you're seeking natural pain relief or looking to boost longevity, we’ll guide you in using infrared therapy safely and effectively.

Ready to Sweat Smarter?

If you're in St. Louis and curious about how infrared saunas can help you feel better, recover faster, and support long-term health, we’d love to help you explore this natural, evidence-based therapy.

📞 Call 314-842-1441 to schedule a consultation
💻 Visit www.sheenveinandcosmetics.com to learn more about our regenerative and functional medicine services

Infrared saunas aren’t just a wellness trend—they’re a clinical tool to help your body heal, detox, and perform at its best.

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