Natural Health & Wellness

Red light therapy vs Infrared Sauna – Which to Use For Healing Pain & Getting Rid Of the Blues?

Red light therapy vs Infrared Sauna - Which to Use For Healing Pain & Getting Rid Of the Blues? Thewellthieoen

The debate between the health benefits of a red light therapy device and infrared saunas has been going on for a while. Both are great at generating heat at a healing level using the visible spectrum of infrared wavelengths. 

The healing capabilities of infrared wavelengths is impressive.
The healing capabilities of infrared wavelengths is impressive.

The following article will discuss how red-light therapy can benefit your health. Both methods use near-infrared light treatment and have their own benefits, which one will work best for you? 

Let’s take a look at both targeted far infrared wavelengths found in a therapy device vs the healing effects that whole-body infrared traditional saunas provide.

Is red light therapy the same as an infrared sauna?

The answer is no. Red light therapy is a form of phototherapy that uses specific wavelengths of light to improve health benefits, while infrared saunas use far-infrared heat to achieve similar results.

An infrared bulb, a source of light and heat.
An infrared bulb, a source of light and heat.

They’re both beneficial for many skin and body issues, but they differ in the way they treat the body.

Similarities between red light therapy and a near infrared sauna

Both red light therapy and infrared sauna sessions have many potential health benefits, such as improved circulation and reduction of inflammation. Reduce inflammation and you reduce the chance and severity of most chronic diseases.

Differences between red light therapy an a near infrared sauna

Red light therapy is a procedure that involves the use of red light-emitting diodes (LEDs), while an infrared sauna session involves sitting in a room heated by infrared lamps which emit heat rather than light. 

Infrared saunas like this can be found at many better gyms and health spas.
Infrared saunas like this can be found at many better gyms and health spas.

Also, with red light therapy, you can target certain areas of the body with pinpoint accuracy, while infrared saunas provide a more generalized effect over the whole body.

What is a good example of an infrared healing device?

There are many to choose from for different purposes, but not all are created equally.

5 things that indicate quality when looking for an infrared healing device:


Durability – A good quality infrared healing device should be able to withstand frequent use and last for a long time.

Safety – The device should be designed so that it produces the right temperature, wavelength and intensity of infrared light needed for health purposes.

Efficiency – A good quality infrared healing device should provide the desired therapeutic effects quickly and effectively.

User-Friendly Interface – The device should have an intuitive user interface that is easy to understand and navigate.

Quality Components – The components of a high-quality infrared healing device should be made of durable materials and include reliable parts such as LED bulbs or lasers that emit infrared light at the right frequency.

Here are 2 good ones available on Amazon:

1. Rotsha Red Light Therapy Device 

Rotsha Red Light Therapy Devic
Source: Amazon.com
Good things to know about Rotsha infrared pain device
  • Excellent for those suffering from body pain, inflammation, or who need to improve skin conditions, relieve muscle stiffness and more.
  • UPGRADE TO 2-In-1 
  • Integrated red light and infrared light together, becoming a pain relief or healing device for both deep tissue and more superficial problems.
  • Enhanced light wavelengths 
  • Produces quicker healing with FineWell-A1.5 
  • It enhances the light energy by increasing the wavelengths and amount of the medical-grade LEDs. 
  • The newly upgraded wavelengths respectively are 660nm, 660nm, 830nm, 850nm, and 940nm.
  • Overheat protection for those with thinner skin. \
  • It works in a pulsed irradiation way to give skin a transitory buffer. 
  • 5 mins auto-off timer, to avoid overuse or overheating.
  • Easy to use on yourself, your loved ones and your pets.

2. Hooga Red Light Therapy Device for Face, Body

Hooga Red Light Therapy Device for Face, Bod
Source: Amazon.com
Good things to know about Hooga red light therapy device:
  • Super easy to use, no unnecessary complicated features.  It just works well.
  •  instruction manual, hanging kit, and eye protection.
  • High quality. Specific and proven infrared wavelengths 
  • Red light therapy used to be limited to expensive salons and clinics but now thanks to high powered, energy efficient and affordable LEDs, all the benefits of red light therapy can now be achieved at home in just minutes a day. 
  • Much like we need nutrients from food and water, our bodies need light to function optimally as well.
  • Panels deliver much more than 100mW/cm2 of irradiance at the surface, and at least 73mW/cm2 at 6 inches. With irradiance measurements like these, you can be sure you are getting an effective, efficient amount of light to your body.
  • 2 year warranty
  • Highly rated on Amazon

Health benefits of red light therapy and using the infrared spectrum of an infrared sauna

If you’re looking for a way to zone out and pamper yourself, the healthy light of a red light therapy device or an infrared sauna can provide incredible healing benefits. 

Basking in beneficial infrared radiation and going through a little heat stress can offer the whole human body affordable, clinically proven treatments that provide a relaxing experience that helps: 

  • reduce inflammation
  • improve cardiac and vascular function
  • increase blood flow
  • boost natural healing
  • improve skin tone and skin health
  • improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
  • relieve sore muscles
  • helps relieve pain
Go ahead, try infrared wavelengths on your sore knees!
Go ahead, try infrared wavelengths on your sore knees!
  • helps heal chronic pain
  • offer effective physical therapy
  • make perfect additions to any wellness routine. 

Not only is light therapy easy to use but it also does not require a healthcare professional’s approval or supervision. So if you’re searching for a low-maintenance way to better manage your stress and feel your best, then these self-care treatments are worth trying.

Red light therapy devices promote deep healing 

Red light therapy devices emit red and near-infrared light waves that can penetrate deeply into the skin and beyond to boost collagen production and promote healing.

This futuristic technology emits red and near-infrared light waves that can penetrate deep into the skin and stimulate collagen production to give you that natural youthful glow. 

Infrared light therapy can help you get the glowing, healthy skin you’ve always wanted.
Infrared light therapy can help you get the glowing, healthy skin you’ve always wanted

Studies show that these energy waves also trigger anti-inflammatory processes to help heal wounds, reduce wrinkles, and make your skin look amazing. 

What’s more, it is non-invasive, entirely safe, and can be done from the comfort of your own home. So if you want younger-looking skin without any downtime or pain, then invest in a red light therapy device!

Infrared saunas can help heal wounds and bruises.
Infrared saunas can help heal wounds and bruises.

How does infrared light therapy help to heal chronic pain?

Infrared saunas are one of the most effective ways to relieve chronic pain. They utilize infrared heat, which is delivered by a sauna’s walls or floor, to promote a number of health benefits. These include improving circulation and reducing inflammation, both of which can help to improve chronic pain and make everyday activities more comfortable.

Physical and emotional pain can be addressed with infrared therapies.
Physical and emotional pain can be addressed with infrared therapies.

These saunas allow for deep-tissue massages as well as increased blood circulation and tissue repair. Individuals may experience a decrease in pain and inflammation as a result of these treatments. Sauna sessions can also be helpful for people with conditions such as fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

What are some alternatives to an infrared sauna?

Being practical, most people have to buy a membership to a gym or sessions at a sauna establishment to enjoy the benefits of an infrared sauna.  

If you want to think “outside the box” or “outside the sauna” there are other devices that can deliver the same healing benefits that take up less space and, on average, cost less too.  Choices include an:

-infrared sauna blanket

Here is a quality infrared sauna blanket that can be found on Amazon that provides excellent value:

LifePro Sauna Blanket for Detoxification – Portable Far Infrared Sauna for Home

LifePro Sauna Blanket for Detoxification - Portable Far Infrared Sauna for Hom
Source: Amazon.com
Good things to know about LifePro infrared sauna blanket:
  • Great for sensitive skin
  • Sweat out heavy metals and toxins 
  • Ease tension
  • Support all over wellbing
  • Multiple heat settings
  • Reduce recovery time
  • Rejuvenate aging skin
  • Stimulate regeneration of skin
  • Boost metabolism and burn calories
  • 2 thermal wraps included to increase results
  • Highly rated on Amazon

How does red light therapy and/or infrared saunas help beat depression or a case of the blues?

You may be pleasantly surprised at how infrared heat can help you bust out of a low mood.
You may be pleasantly surprised at how infrared heat can help you bust out of a low mood.

Red light therapy and infrared saunas can help improve mood, cognitive function, and energy levels by increasing serotonin production and decreasing inflammation.

How does infrared light therapy through a device or sauna help to beautify the skin?

Infrared light therapy through a device or sauna is a popular way to beautify the skin. This type of therapy uses infrared light, which is a type of electromagnetic radiation, to promote cellular growth and rejuvenation in the skin. 

Exposure to infrared light has been shown to increase the production of collagen, elastin, and other proteins in the skin, which gives it a more youthful appearance and texture. 

Additionally, infrared light has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on the skin, making it beneficial for treating conditions like acne and psoriasis. 

If you have been using steroids on your psoriasis and would rather not use toxic substances on your skin, try infrared therapy as an alternative.
If you have been using steroids on your psoriasis and would rather not use toxic substances on your skin, try infrared therapy as an alternative.

In some cases, infrared light therapy can be combined with other types of treatments like chemical peels or laser therapies for better results.

Infrared saunas use infrared light waves to deeply penetrate the body, providing a deep tissue detoxification and relaxation experience. Detoxification of the body can lead to better overall health.

Adding infrared sauna sessions or infrared light therapy to your detox routine is highly beneficial.
Adding infrared sauna sessions or infrared light therapy to your detox routine is highly beneficial.

For those interested in supercharging health and well-being, infrared sauna sessions will deliver. Infrared saunas are all the rage, and it’s not hard to see why. They promote deep tissue detoxification and relaxation, allowing you to achieve intense wellness benefits like: 

mental clarity

improved skin condition

muscle healing

better sleep

These advanced light waves penetrate the body deeply, helping flush out all sorts of toxins in your system. Ultimately, this can lead to an overall improvement in your health.

Do you need eye protection for infrared light therapy?

It is not required that protective eyewear be worn during infrared light therapy, though the lights may be bright and cause discomfort for the eyes. It is never a bad idea to wear protective goggles if the light affects you this way.

It is up to you if you want to wear protective glasses while using infrared light therapy.
It is up to you if you want to wear protective glasses while using infrared light therapy.

Is infrared light therapy safe during pregnancy?

Infrared light therapy is generally considered to be safe for pregnant women. Some sources suggest that it should be used in moderation though there are no known negative effects of using this healing energy while you are pregnant. 

There is no known cause for concern to use this type of healing while pregnant.
There is no known cause for concern to use this type of healing while pregnant.

It is likely a welcoming, healing and growth-stimulating experience for the baby. It’s important to talk to your doctor before trying any new treatments while you’re pregnant.

Is the use of an infrared sauna safe during pregnancy?

Studies suggest that it is safe to use an infrared sauna during pregnancy. However, it is important to keep in mind that the effects of infrared light on a developing fetus are not yet known. It’s best to consult with your doctor before using any type of treatment, including an infrared sauna, while pregnant. 

Additionally, it is advisable to limit the exposure time in the sauna, especially during the first trimester, as high temperatures can be risky for both you and your baby.

Decisions, decisions

So, which one, an infrared therapy device or an infrared sauna, is right for you? It depends on your goals and preferences!

Which one to use, an infrared therapy device, or an infrared sauna?   Maybe both!
Which one to use, an infrared therapy device, or an infrared sauna? Maybe both!

Red light therapy device

If you’re looking to upgrade your wellness routine with an infrared therapy device, you can’t go wrong. The convenience of a device like this is that it does not take up much space, and is generally less expensive than an infrared sauna. You can also target specific areas of pain or concern more easily with a device. 

Ultimately, that comes down to your goals and what works best with your preferences.

Infrared sauna

An infrared sauna is a great solution if you’re looking to ignite your body’s natural healing process by soaking up stress-relieving infrared heat, while other types of infrared heating devices are best for targeting a specific problem areas. Cost is a concern to many, and so is the availability of space. The great thing is that there have been some innovative and creative ways to bring infrared saunas to the masses by inventing infrared sauna blankets and collapsable models that work well for storage when not in use. 

Concluding thoughts on red light therapy vs infrared sauna

So no matter what your goals may be, there is an infrared therapy device that is perfect for you. It makes sense to add this type of healing technology to your health and beauty toolkit, because working on our well-being is an ongoing process, and the health benefits of infrared wavelengths show that it is something that we want to use frequently.   We wish you well on your healthy journey!

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