Gone are the days when a spa experience required a costly appointment and a trip out of the house. Homeowners are increasingly turning to infrared (IR) saunas to create a luxurious and therapeutic haven. Unlike traditional steam saunas, infrared saunas heat the body directly with IR light, providing a unique experience that combines luxury and wellness.
This article looks into the latest trends in IR saunas, exploring how they’re redefining home spa experiences and offering a deeper understanding of the technology behind them.
Understanding IR sauna technology
Before exploring the trends, let’s establish the fundamental difference between IR and traditional saunas. Traditional saunas use hot air to heat the environment, aiming for temperatures between 70°C and 100°C. This can feel stifling for some, and the heat primarily warms the skin’s surface.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, utilise IR ceramic or carbon heaters that emit electromagnetic waves in the IR spectrum. These waves penetrate deeper into your body, heating you from the inside out. There are two main types of IR saunas:
- Far infrared (FIR) saunas: This is the most common type and emits longer wavelengths of IR radiation which are highly absorbed by the moisture content in your skin. FIR heat penetrates deepest into your body tissues, promoting sweating, relaxation, and potential pain relief.
- Near-infrared (NIR) saunas: Near Infrared (NIR) light is not ideal for use in sauna settings due to its limited heat output and the high temperatures of saunas, which can hinder its effectiveness. NIR light is most effective when used at normal temperatures and before sweating begins – stimulating mitochondrial activity at the cellular level for increased energy production, rather than the thermoregulatory responses from the body that sauna practice has gained its reputation for. It is best administered through scientifically designed LED devices that can deliver an effective dose within a short duration, approximately 8-10 minutes, rather than during sauna sessions.
The rise of IR saunas in home spas
As wellness becomes a priority for many, the demand for home spa solutions that offer both luxury and health benefits has surged. IR saunas have quickly become a favourite choice due to their ease of use, compact design, and health benefits. Here are the trends that drive the use of IR saunas in home spas:
1. Customisable sauna experiences
Modern IR saunas are no longer one-size-fits-all. Users desire options that let them customise their sauna experience, allowing for a range of features and premium materials that suit their lifestyle needs. This includes:
- Adjustable temperature settings: Some saunas offer various temperature settings. This flexibility allows you to find your comfort zone, whether you prefer a gentle warmth or a more intense heat.
- Chromatherapy lighting: This feature uses coloured lights to set a specific mood or atmosphere. For example, red light can boost energy, while blue light can promote relaxation.
- Bluetooth audio systems: Imagine relaxing in your sauna while listening to your favourite music or guided meditations. Bluetooth connectivity makes this possible.
2. Smart sauna technology
Technology is playing an increasingly prominent role in IR saunas, offering new ways to monitor and improve your experience. Look for features like:
- Touchscreen controls: Intuitive touch screens allow easy control of temperature, lighting, audio, and even chromotherapy settings.
- Smartphone app integration: Some saunas can be controlled and monitored through a dedicated smartphone app, allowing you to pre-heat the sauna or adjust settings remotely.
3. Sustainable and eco-friendly designs
As consumers become more environmentally conscious, businesses strive to offer eco-friendly products. IR saunas are meeting this demand by utilising sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs. Here are some sustainable trends in IR saunas:
- Eco-friendly woods: Sustainable woods like hemlock and cedar are becoming increasingly famous for their natural beauty, durability, and pleasant aroma.
- Carbon fibre heating panels: These panels offer excellent heat distribution, quick warm-up times, and a sleek, modern look.
- Glass fronts: Glass fronts add a touch of luxury and create a more spacious feel in your sauna.
4. Health-focused design enhancements
The focus on holistic health and wellness is fueling advancements in infrared saunas. Here are some features designed to improve well-being:
- The superiority of Longer Far infrared saunas: Far Infrared (FIR) radiant heat is exceptionally effective in saunas due to its deep penetration, reaching 1 to 4mm into the skin where it is readily absorbed by the body’s moisture. This specific wavelength is ideal for sauna applications, providing whole-body radiant heat treatments. It effectively raises the core body temperature, strengthens the immune system, and promotes a detoxifying sweat that cleanses the body. Such capabilities make FIR an optimal choice for those seeking the comprehensive health benefits of a sauna experience.
- Chromatherapy lighting with pre-programmed settings: Some saunas feature pre-programmed chromatherapy lighting sequences designed for specific purposes, such as relaxation, pain relief, and improved sleep.
- Backrests and lumbar support: Ergonomic design elements improve comfort and support during your sauna session – we provide supportive backrests to pair with your sauna model, alongside other embellishments like our Sun Stream towel, aromatherapy unit and more.
5. Space-saving designs
Not everyone has a dedicated sauna room. Fortunately, manufacturers are catering to smaller spaces with innovative designs such as:
- Corner saunas: These fit perfectly into corners, making them excellent for apartments or smaller homes.
- Portable saunas: For optimum flexibility, portable saunas can be easily folded and stored away when not in use.
Elevate your home spa experience
Infrared saunas are not just a luxury addition to your home—they’re an effective tool for enhancing your overall health. If you’re ready to elevate your home spa experience, Sun Stream AUS offers high-quality IR saunas designed to meet your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products, browse our selection, and discover the benefits of IR saunas.