An infrared sauna warms you with radiant heat from panels rather than by heating all the air in the room. It runs cooler than a traditional Finnish sauna, typically 40–60°C, which many people find easier to sit in for longer. This guide sets out what infrared heat actually does, what the evidence does and doesn't support, and what to consider before installing one at home.
How infrared heat works
Infrared panels emit radiant heat that warms your skin and the surfaces around you directly, so the air stays cooler than in a traditional sauna. You still sweat, but more gradually, and there is no steam from water on hot stones. Most compact infrared saunas run from a standard 13A socket and heat up in around 15–20 minutes.
What people use an infrared sauna for
Research on infrared saunas specifically is still limited, and most studies are small. We would rather be clear about that than overpromise. These are the reasons our clients most often give:
- Relaxation. A quiet, warm room away from screens is, for most people, the main reason to own a sauna. Many use it as a fixed point at the end of the day.
- Comfort after exercise. Many people find gentle warmth comfortable on tight or tired muscles after training.
- Gentler heat. The lower air temperature suits people who find a traditional sauna too intense.
- Easy, regular use. A quick heat-up and a standard socket make it practical to use several times a week.
You will find much wider claims online, such as detoxing heavy metals, weight loss, skin rejuvenation or lowering blood pressure. The evidence for these from home infrared sauna use is weak or not established, so we do not make them. If you have a specific health goal, speak to your GP.
Who should check with a doctor first
Any sauna raises your heart rate and body temperature. If you are pregnant, have a heart condition, high or low blood pressure, or take medication that affects how you cope with heat, check with your doctor before using one. Avoid alcohol before or during a session.
Practical points before you buy
- Hydration. Drink water before and after each session.
- Start short. Begin with 10–15 minutes and build up gradually. Leave straight away if you feel dizzy or unwell.
- The feel of the heat. Infrared does not give the intense heat and steam (löyly) of a traditional sauna. If that matters to you, a traditional or hybrid sauna will suit you better.
- Cost. Our fully installed infrared saunas start from £9,995, excluding VAT and builders' preparatory work. See how much a sauna costs in the UK for the full price range.
Infrared, traditional or hybrid?
If you want a classic hot sauna with steam, a traditional Finnish sauna is the better choice. If you only have a 13A socket and no room for an electrical upgrade, infrared is usually the practical answer. A hybrid sauna combines both in one room. Our infrared vs traditional sauna comparison covers the trade-offs, and our home sauna UK guide explains sizes, power and installation.
To discuss an infrared sauna for your home, see our infrared sauna page, or email photographs and dimensions of your space to info@saunacompany.co.uk for an initial assessment.
Planning a sauna of your own? See how our sauna installation service works, from free design consultation to handover.
Planning one for your own home? See our infrared saunas page for options and recent projects, or book a free design consultation and we'll talk through your space.