Are Far Infrared Saunas Safe? A Complete Guide to Safety, Risks & Best Practices

If you’ve ever wondered whether far infrared saunas are safe — you’re not alone. The word “infrared” can sound intense, and saunas are known for generating high heat. But the truth is simple: far infrared saunas are safe for most people.

Infrared saunas are no more dangerous than a hot summer day:

Raising your core temperature is natural and healthy — and exactly what your body is designed to do when fighting stress, fatigue, or illness.

Still, some myths persist. That’s why I’ve created this guide — to help you understand the actual risks, the rare exceptions, and the right way to use your infrared sauna for optimal health and safety.

Let’s Start Here: The Infrared Itself Is Harmless

The infrared light is not the risk — it’s the body’s response to heat that needs attention:

Infrared waves gently warm your tissues. But as with any form of elevated heat, your body’s ability to regulate temperature is key to safe use.

When to Talk to Your Doctor Before Sauna Use

If you’re managing a medical condition or take prescription medications:

It’s always smart to check with your doctor. Certain medications — like diuretics, barbiturates, beta-blockers, and even antihistamines — may affect how your body handles heat.

You should also consult your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Cardiovascular conditions (hypertension, hypotension, heart failure, or impaired coronary circulation)

• Stroke history or recent heart attack

• Very high or low blood pressure

• Unstable angina or severe aortic stenosis

• Central nervous system disorders (brain tumors, MS, lupus)

• Diabetes with neuropathy (due to impaired sweating)

• Recent acute injuries or infections

• Silicone or metal implants (check with your surgeon or manufacturer)

Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your OB-GYN:

Raising your core temperature may carry risks during pregnancy. Your doctor can help you make the right choice.

Children, Older Adults & Heat Sensitivity

Children’s bodies heat up faster and cool down slower:

Always consult a pediatrician before sauna use. Their sweat regulation and cardiovascular capacity differ from adults.

Seniors may have decreased sweat gland activity or circulation issues:

If you’re over 65 or have heat sensitivity, monitor your time and hydration more carefully.

If you’ve ever had a negative reaction to heat or sun exposure:

Infrared sauna use may not be appropriate without guidance.

Conditions Where Sauna Use Should Be Avoided

Avoid sauna sessions when you’re sick or feverish:

While saunas can support immune function, using one with an active fever can stress the body unnecessarily.

Do not use an infrared sauna to “sweat out” a hangover:

Alcohol impairs your body’s ability to regulate heat, increasing your risk of overheating or dehydration.

Avoid sauna use with certain acute injuries:

For example, freshly injured joints should not be heated in the first 48 hours — especially if swelling is present.

What About Implants?

Metal implants reflect infrared and generally stay cool:

Most metal rods, screws, or joints won’t heat up. Still, talk to your surgeon before using a sauna if you’ve had surgery.

Silicone absorbs infrared energy, but won’t melt:

Since silicone melts at over 392°F, sauna temps won’t damage implants — but always check with your surgeon or implant manufacturer just to be safe.

Best Practices: How to Use a Far Infrared Sauna Safely

Your experience should be relaxing, not stressful:

Infrared sauna therapy works best when you stay in tune with your body. Start slow, stay hydrated, and listen to how you feel.

Here are my top safety tips for first-timers and seasoned sauna users alike:

Sauna Safety Tip #1: Avoid Plastic Water Bottles

Use a glass or stainless-steel bottle inside the sauna:

Plastic can leach chemicals into your water when exposed to heat.

Sauna Safety Tip #2: Limit to One Session per Day

Once a day is plenty:

Raising your core body temperature by 1–3°F is healthy — but doing it twice daily can overwork your system.

Sauna Safety Tip #3: Crack the Door or Step Out if Needed

If you feel dizzy or overheated, take a break:

Your comfort is your guide. Some days you’ll sweat more quickly than others.

Sauna Safety Tip #4: Stay Hydrated & Replenish Electrolytes

Drink water before, during, and after your session:

Also consider foods that restore essential minerals lost through sweat:

• Sodium – Pickled foods, cheese, table salt

• Chloride – Table salt

• Potassium – Bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados

• Magnesium – Seeds, nuts

• Calcium – Leafy greens

Final Thoughts: Overcome the Fear — and Embrace the Benefits

I’ll admit it: I was hesitant the first time I stepped into an infrared sauna. I’d used steam saunas before and didn’t love the intense humidity. But once I learned how FIR works — and how safe it is — everything changed.

Infrared saunas are safer than you think — and more effective than you’d expect:

For most healthy adults, FIR therapy is a low-risk, high-reward way to support detox, weight loss, clear skin, and pain relief.

Still unsure? Ask your doctor — then dive in with confidence:

I’m happy to share what I’ve learned, but only your physician can assess your unique health profile.