On one of Oprah’s shows, far infrared therapy has received much attention. Dr. Oz pointed out the benefits of a far infrared sauna for the detoxification of your body, weight management and blood pressure. But this is not it! Far infrared saunas can help you with blood circulation, arthritis, and many other health issues such as chronic skin conditions. Let’s see how far infrared sauna can be so beneficial to your skin.
Far infrared sauna: what is it?
An infrared sauna is a sauna that heats with far infrared heaters that emit far infrared radiant heat. Okay… But what is far infrared radiant heat? It sounds like very bad radiation but it is actually very safe. It is the same than the heat from the sun, without the harmful ultraviolets rays. It has been developed in Japan since 1965.
What kinds of skin problems can far infrared help with?
- Because far infrared heat helps open clogged pores, it helps with the removal of dirt, oil, and makeup.
- Because it detoxifies your body, it helps with skin problems such as acne, rashes, eczema and psoriasis.
- Because far infrared increases blood flow, it is beneficial for cellulite, hemorrhoids or varicose veins.
- Because it is healing, it helps every organ to function better, such as the liver which is often involves in chronic skin diseases.
- Because it heats tissues, it speeds the healing process of skin injuries, such as wounds, burns, or cuts. Even scars may be gradually softened.
Is a far infrared sauna more beneficial than a conventional sauna?
In many ways, the answer is yes.
The temperature is lower but you sweat more… Far infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures, which is better tolerated by the body. But it doesn’t mean you sweat less. It is the contrary as the sweat volume is 2 to 3 times more than conventional saunas. This is why it increases detoxification and calorie burning.
It does not dry out the mucous membranes because the temperature is lower and it doesn’t use water.
Far infrared is said to heat tissue three times as much as conventional saunas. The heat goes much deeper as well: up to three inches.
Because it does not use any water, there is no bacterial growth. This point is very important considering some chronic skin conditions have a bacterial cause.
As a matter of fact, Far infrared saunas are safer than conventional saunas as there are no hot surfaces or high temperatures. The lower heat ranges make it also safer for those with cardiovascular risks.
How often should you use it?
It is best to use it as often as you can (daily) for best results, but once a week is still beneficial to your skin.
However, if your skin problem gets worst with sweat, which is sometimes the case for psoriasis or other bacterial infections, you may want to avoid sweating. Keep in mind it might be worst at the beginning but will get better as your body is getting rid of the toxins. A cold shower right after the sauna is advisable in this case, otherwise it is better to wait for an hour before washing because your body keeps on sweating after the sauna.
Some stores proposes massage beds using acupressure combined with far-infrared therapy. This is an ideal solution to avoid sweating and still get the benefits. It is also very relaxing and helps deal with stress and relieve tensions in your body.
- Disclaimer
Article by
J. Beck
DISCLAIMER
The information provided on Optiderma.com is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified practitioner.
If you are allergic to the foods, herbs, essential oils, any remedies listed here, you must of course avoid them. For example, consuming food that you’re sensitive to will only cause more (not reduce!) inflammation.
Please consult a practitioner (such as Naturopath, Homeopath, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Dermatologist, ...) to follow the most appropriate treatment to heal your skin. All legal mentions »
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