An infrared (IR) sauna utilizes light to create heat that directly warms the body, a mechanism distinct from traditional saunas that primarily heat the air around you. This direct radiant heat penetration induces a deep sweat at a lower ambient temperature, offering a unique therapeutic experience. Selecting the right attire ensures this heat transfer is maximized while maintaining comfort, safety, and hygiene throughout the process.
Ideal Clothing for Maximum Benefit
Optimal attire for an infrared sauna session is minimal, prioritizing maximum skin exposure to the radiant heat. Since the infrared light directly penetrates the body, any clothing acts as a barrier that reduces the overall therapeutic effect and hinders sweat production. Going completely nude is considered the most efficient choice, provided facility rules and personal privacy allow for it.
If modesty is a concern, minimal, loose-fitting garments are the best compromise to encourage deep sweating and heat absorption. Lightweight swimwear, such as a bikini or swim trunks, works well because it covers only small areas while allowing the majority of the skin to remain exposed. Alternatively, a simple cotton sports bra and shorts can provide coverage without excessive material.
The material of any chosen garment should be a natural, highly breathable fiber, with lightweight cotton being the most recommended option. Cotton effectively absorbs sweat and will not interfere with the infrared rays, unlike synthetic fabrics. Synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, and spandex should be avoided because they trap heat against the skin and impede the natural cooling process. Loose-fitting garments are preferable to tight clothing, as they prevent restriction of blood flow and allow for better air movement against the skin.
Items to Leave Outside the Cabin
For both safety and maximizing the benefits of the session, several items should be removed before entering the infrared cabin. All jewelry and metal objects, including watches and certain underwires in bras, should be taken off. Metal can heat up significantly within the sauna, posing a risk of discomfort or minor burns to the skin.
Electronics, such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, should not be brought into the sauna space. These devices can suffer permanent damage from the sustained heat, which may cause them to overheat or malfunction. Furthermore, using electronics can disrupt the intended relaxation benefits of the session.
It is also important to enter the sauna with clean skin, meaning all makeup, lotions, oils, and heavy creams should be washed off beforehand. These products can clog pores, which interferes with the body’s ability to sweat and detoxify properly. Additionally, residue from these products can transfer onto the wooden surfaces of the sauna when sweating, potentially leading to discoloration or unhygienic conditions.
Essential Supportive Accessories and Hygiene
While minimal clothing is preferred, specific supportive accessories are necessary to ensure a clean and comfortable experience. The most important items are absorbent towels, which serve a dual purpose for hygiene and comfort. It is highly recommended to use two towels: one large towel must be placed on the bench to sit or lie on, protecting the wood from sweat and body oils.
A second towel is needed to wipe the heavy perspiration that the infrared heat encourages. This keeps sweat from pooling and encourages further detoxification. Towels should be removed from the cabin immediately after the session to prevent moisture buildup within the wood, which helps maintain the sauna’s integrity.
Staying hydrated is necessary due to the significant fluid loss induced by the deep sweating. A glass or metal water bottle should be brought into the sauna, and it is advised to drink water before, during, and after the session to replace lost electrolytes and prevent dehydration. Finally, a cool rinse or shower immediately following the session is recommended to remove residues, close the pores, and regulate body temperature.