Are Infrared Saunas Safe? A Comprehensive Look at Benefits, Risks, and Common Concerns

Let’s get this out of the way:

Yes, far infrared saunas are safe to use for most healthy adults. From the electrical components to the wood to the heating elements, everything in our saunas has been rigorously tested and certified to meet modern safety standards.

Our saunas are designed for long-term daily use and come with a limited lifetime warranty and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We also offer the lowest EMF levels in the industry — independently tested and verified.

Concerned about “microwaving” yourself?

You’re not. Far infrared saunas use radiant heat — not electromagnetic cooking. The light energy used is the same safe far-infrared band emitted naturally by the sun and even used in neonatal incubators.

How Infrared Saunas Work (And Why They’re Safe)

Infrared saunas use far infrared light (FIR) — a form of invisible radiant heat that penetrates about 1.5 inches into soft tissue. This energy is absorbed by water molecules in your body, raising your core body temperature safely and gently, without overheating the surrounding air.

Efficient, targeted heat:

Your body absorbs up to 93% of the radiant heat from our advanced carbon-ceramic heaters, making FIR one of the most effective and comfortable forms of therapeutic heat.

Far infrared energy is natural, non-ionizing, and completely safe for humans, animals, and plants. In fact, 53% of the sun’s energy is in the far infrared spectrum — so sitting in an infrared sauna is physiologically similar to basking in sunlight, without harmful UV rays.

When Infrared Saunas Should Be Used with Caution

While infrared sauna therapy is safe for most people, there are a few cases where caution — or complete avoidance — is advised.

Children

Young children have not yet developed full thermoregulation through sweat, which means they can overheat more easily than adults.

Infrared saunas are not recommended for children under puberty age.

Older children and teens may use a sauna under adult supervision for 10–15 minutes, provided they can communicate how they’re feeling.

Pregnancy

Raising the body’s core temperature above 100°F — especially during the first trimester — may increase the risk of birth defects and fetal complications.

During pregnancy, skip the sauna.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises against sauna use during all trimesters — and we agree. It’s not worth the risk.

Elderly Adults

Many older adults use saunas well into their 70s and 80s, especially in sauna-loving cultures like Finland. But caution should still be taken, especially if they’re prone to dehydration, dizziness, or cardiovascular instability.

Evaluate case by case:

If an elderly person can tolerate light exercise and sweating, they can likely enjoy FIR therapy — but always monitor comfort and hydration closely.

Pets

While your dog may love lounging nearby, animals don’t sweat like humans and can’t tell you when they’re overheating. Keep them outside the sauna.

Pets can’t self-regulate heat like humans.

Let them nap just outside the sauna door where it’s warm — but not hot.

Medical Conditions That Require Clearance or Caution

Avoid sauna use or speak with your doctor first if you:

• Have recently suffered a stroke (particularly hemorrhagic)

• Have severe aortic stenosis

• Recently experienced a heart attack

• Have unstable angina

• Have been diagnosed with lupus or brain tumors

• Are on steroids that impair blood circulation

Also consult a physician if you:

• Have very high or low blood pressure

• Have multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Have silicone implants (heat sensitivity varies)

• Are taking medications that affect your thermoregulation or electrolyte balance

The general rule:

If you have any doubts or are managing a complex medical condition, speak with your healthcare provider before starting infrared sauna therapy.

My Personal Story on Infrared Sauna Safety

I’ll admit it — I was skeptical at first. I’d used traditional steam saunas before and found them overwhelming. The humidity, the heat — it just wasn’t for me.

But infrared felt different. More gentle, more breathable, more effective.

After my first session, I did my homework. I dove into the science, spoke with experts, and became a believer. Today, regular sauna use is part of my daily wellness routine — and I’ve experienced clearer skin, improved sleep, lower blood pressure, and far less stress.

Infrared sauna use feels like sunlight without the burn.

It’s natural, calming, and incredibly rejuvenating.

Final Word: Saunas Are Safe — When Used Wisely

The risks of infrared saunas are generally no greater than spending time outdoors on a hot day. If you’re well-hydrated, mindful of your body, and medically cleared, infrared saunas are among the safest and most beneficial wellness tools available today.

Want to learn more about how they work?

Explore our infrared sauna options or talk with one of our experts to find the model that’s right for your lifestyle.