By: Your JNH Lifestylist

To understand infrared light, you must know what the electromagnetic spectrum is. This classifies all different types of waves according to their wavelength. Visible light and all associated colors are included in this spectrum, but only occupies a small portion of it, with wavelengths between 400-700 nanometers (nm). Outside of this range, there are many other types of waves that are invisible to the naked human eye. These invisible wavelengths serve multiple purposes such as X-rays, microwaves, and of course infrared waves. Infrared sits just beyond visible light with wavelengths between 760 and 100,00 nm. As you can see, this is a pretty large range that allows scientists to classify infrared waves into three categories: near infrared, mid infrared and far infrared. Each of them has specific features and applications, but we are going to focus on near infrared since most infrared saunas do not include it [3].

Near infrared falls on the shorter end of the infrared spectrum, with wavelengths between 780 and 3000 nm. By having a shorter wavelength, these waves are unable to penetrate deeper into your tissues than far or mid infrared can, so they do not affect your body temperature. It is for this reason that they are not always included in infrared saunas. However, despite not generating any heat, they have other effects that translate into many health benefits, with the most reported ones being skin and mental health [4]. If you are looking to get the most out of infrared therapy, the best thing to do is to use an infrared sauna that has all three types of infrared light (far, mid and near). After all, each subtype has specific benefits, so why not make sure you are getting them all?

The most studied effect of near infrared waves in cells is how it stimulates the mitochondria. The mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell. Imagine it as the organ where all the energy that cells use to stay alive, is produced. Without the mitochondria, all chemical reactions in a cell would not be possible, and metabolisms would not exist. So by stimulating the mitochondria by exposing cells to near infrared light, they experience an increase in energy production and metabolism. This has clinical implications since constantly being exposed to infrared waves can increase your metabolism [5].

A study performed in 2014 in Germany sought to determine the efficacy of near infrared light in the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles. A group of 113 volunteers was exposed to this type of light twice a week, until completing 15 sessions. The results were wonderful, with most volunteers having significantly improved skin complexion. They also determined the collagen density in the skin, which had increased after the treatment. This is particularly important since collagen is a protein that makes your skin look tight and firm. With results like these, it is a good reason to ensure that near infrared waves will be included in your infrared sauna purchase [6].

Near infrared waves are typically not included in infrared saunas. To ensure that you're receiving the near infrared wavelength, the product title of the infrared sauna you are shopping for must read 'full spectrum', meaning you are receiving far, mid and near infrared. We know it can be a bit confusing, so to understand further, click here.