Many people turn to Botox as soon as they observe the early signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. While its promise of quick, noticeable results can be appealing, Botox is a temporary fix. Some individuals also experience side effects such as stiffness or unnatural facial expressions.
Thanks to modern technology, Botox isn’t the only option for maintaining radiant, youthful skin. One holistic solution that has been gaining attention in recent years for its skin-rejuvenating properties is infrared saunas. While it won’t “freeze” wrinkles like Botox, it works beneath the surface to promote long-term improvements in skin health and appearances.
Learn more about the benefits of infrared sauna vs Botox in this comparative guide by our experts at Sun Stream Infrared Sauna AUS.
How Botox Works: A Temporary Solution
When injected into the skin, Botox, a neurotoxin derived from Clostridium botulinum bacteria, blocks nerve signals, temporarily paralysing targeted facial muscles. This prevents muscle contractions that cause wrinkles such as those formed by repeated expressions like frowning or squinting.
While Botox is effective in reducing dynamic wrinkles (those caused by facial expressions), its effects last only three to six months, requiring regular treatments to maintain results. Additionally, repeated use may lead to muscle atrophy over time, potentially altering facial expressions. Some individuals also experience side effects such as headaches, bruising, or temporary drooping in treated areas.
Benefits of Infrared Sauna: Supporting Skin Health at the Cellular Level
Infrared saunas use infrared light to deliver heat deep into the skin, which stimulates certain biological processes. This mechanism improves skin function from within and provides long-term benefits. Learn more about these benefits below.
1. Increased collagen production for firmer, more elastic skin
Collagen is the foundation of youthful skin. It provides structure and elasticity, preventing sagging and fine lines. However, collagen production decreases by about 1% per year after the age of 20, leading to visible signs of ageing.
Infrared sauna therapy stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for collagen and elastin synthesis. This increases the production of these two essential proteins, leading to firmer skin and fewer visible wrinkles over time.
2. Enhances cellular regeneration
Skin cells are constantly regenerating, but as we age, this process slows down. Infrared sauna therapy accelerates cellular turnover by increasing the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy source for all cellular activity. ATP fuels the repair of damaged skin cells and promotes the regeneration of new, healthy ones.
3. Improves blood circulation for a natural glow
A healthy complexion relies on optimal blood flow to deliver oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. Poor circulation can lead to dullness, uneven skin tone, and delayed healing of blemishes or scars.
Infrared heat causes vasodilation, the widening of blood vessels, which increases microcirculation in the skin. This process enhances the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients while promoting the removal of waste products and toxins. The result is a naturally radiant complexion with improved skin tone and reduced redness or hyperpigmentation.
4. Reduces inflammation through improved lymphatic drainage
The lymphatic system is responsible for removing excess fluids, waste, and toxins from tissues, but it can become sluggish due to aging, stress, or dehydration. Infrared sauna therapy activates the lymphatic system by increasing body temperature and promoting sweating. This encourages the movement of stagnant fluids, reducing puffiness and defining facial contours.
5. Reduces oxidative stress and prevents premature ageing
Free radicals are unstable molecules that contribute to oxidative stress, a key factor in premature skin ageing. Infrared sauna sessions help counteract this by increasing antioxidant production in the body. These compounds neutralise free radicals, protecting skin cells from damage and slowing down the aging process.
The Best Choice for Healthy Radiant Skin
Ageing is a natural process, and how we choose to care for our skin can make a big difference in its appearance over time.
Botox offers a temporary fix and can be helpful for minor issues, however, it doesn’t address the underlying causes of the physical signs of ageing on your skin. Infrared sauna therapy provides a natural way to support skin health at the cellular level.
Instead of targeting just one aspect of ageing, infrared sauna therapy improves circulation, collagen production, hydration, and detoxification, all essential for youthful skin. Also, unlike Botox, these improvements build over time rather than disappearing after a few months. Alongside a good skincare routine and a healthy lifestyle, it can be a powerful tool for maintaining a youthful glow.
If you’re looking to experience the benefits of infrared sauna sessions yourself, Sun Stream offers high-quality infrared saunas and science-based light therapy panels designed to support skin health and overall wellness. Explore our range or contact us for more inquiries.