Sweating is often perceived as something uncomfortable and unattractive. It leaves stains on the clothes, bad odor and makes your skin clammy. That’s why people use all sorts of ways to combat sweat, from deodorants to surgical interventions.

However, sweating didn't always have this bad reputation. Native Americans, Ancient Greeks and Romans all used heated spaces to sweat and eliminate toxins from their bodies. Today, the times are changing and more people are aware of how beneficial good sweating can be. Enter infrared saunas — the latest health craze.

This relatively new trend is widely praised by celebrities and athletes claiming it has relieved their pain, helped them burn calories and detox. Some use it after a workout, performances and competitions, while others see it as the perfect way to relax and get their skin glow. So it’s normal that everyone wants to know what infrared saunas are. Here are the basics:

Differences Between Traditional And Infrared Saunas

You probably know what a traditional sauna is — a closed-off place that uses wood, stones, or charcoal to heat the air to induce sweating. This causes the body to warm up from the outside in, which leads to sweating. For many people, this is not a pleasant experience since the air is heavy and hard to breathe.

An infrared sauna also creates heat but in a completely different way. It uses infrared light to warm up the body from the inside out. This is why it’s tolerably hot — 120°F to 140°F compared to 185°F to 195°Fin a traditional sauna — making it more comfortable to sit inside one. For this reason, spending time in an infrared sauna is easier on the body and leads to similar health benefits.

A Few Words About Infrared Light

Let’s start with a little bit of science! Infrared (IR) light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum present all around us. You use it every day to switch the channels on your TV or play a movie on your Blu-ray player. Although the human eye can't detect it, the body can sometimes sense its heat.

Infrared light was discovered over 200 years ago by Sir Frederick William Herschel, the same astronomer who discovered Uranus. Since then, it has been used across various industries and saved many lives. For instance, one of its applications is detecting humans and animals trapped in fires. Today, several studies have proved that infrared light can have therapeutic benefits for the body [1&91;. With infrared saunas, these health properties may now be available in every home.

So What Are Infrared Saunas?

Infrared saunas are therapy booths easily installed in your home. You can place one in your garage, bedroom, bathroom, or attic, anywhere you have enough room and a reliable power source. Inside, a person is surrounded by the IR heaters which raise the body’s temperature, inducing perspiration.

Depending on your budget and needs, infrared saunas come in different sizes and with various added perks. Some are made of high-quality wood and have Bluetooth speakers, like the JNH Freedom Collection. Others, like Ensi™ Collection emit ultra-low electromagnetic fields (EMF), making them safer and more effective for those with medical condition that require such an environment.

The air inside isn't stifling and people who can't withstand the high temperatures in a traditional sauna may feel comfortable here. Using an infrared sauna regularly may lead to a faster heartbeat and improved circulation, bringing more oxygen to cells, organs, muscles and joints [2&91;. Other health benefits may include lower blood pressure, better sleep, reduction of pain and stress relief.

What Are The Risks

The major risk in an infrared sauna, just like in traditional saunas,is overheating. It can cause dehydration and fainting, especially in elderly people. Also, children shouldn't be allowed inside an infrared booth without permission from the pediatrician and heavy adult supervision. Once inside, they should be closely monitored since their body temperature rises more quickly than an adult’s. To stay hydrated, drink a glass of water before entering the sauna and, if necessary, have a bottle close at hand inside.

Just like with a traditional sauna, people with certain health conditions should consult with their physician. People who suffered a heart attack recently, pregnant women and persons with eczema need to see their doctor before using the infrared sauna. If you feel any discomfort when inside, you should immediately leave the booth and monitor your health.

Verdict

As the newest wellness trend, infrared saunas are attracting a lot of attention. Health benefits are some of the most important perks of having a personal infrared sauna. If you are thinking about getting one, it may be the best health investment you’ll ever make. It’ll save you money and time that you would otherwise spend going to a sauna in a spa/gym center. So, take a look at the JNH Lifestyles collections. Your future infrared sauna is waiting for you to take home.

References:

[1&91;Shang-Ru Tsai, Ph.D., Michael R Hamblin, Ph.D. (2017). “Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, May 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5505738/.

[2&91;Brunt, V. E., Howard, M. J., et al. (2016). ”Passive heat therapy improves endothelial function, arterial stiffness and blood pressure in sedentary humans.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27270841.

It's true that today people live longer than they did 50 years ago. It's also true that the modern world has brought more factors that can impair a person's health by compromising the body’s basic protection — the immune system. All creatures have some sort of innate immunity in their bodies shielding them from outside pathogens to a certain extent [1&91;.

In particular, human immune mechanisms fight against numerous hazards on a daily basis, like pollution and germs. And how much work the immune system will have to do considerably depends on the way a person lives their life. A sedentary lifestyle, nicotine, alcohol, UV radiation and stress can make the immune system weak and endanger overall health. While it may not be possible to abandon some habits, you can minimize their effect and introduce things that can improve your quality of life, like infrared therapy. But first, let’s go over the immune system’s purpose and its significance for human existence.

Know Your Immune System

The immune system is a complex mechanism including organs, cells and proteins serving as protection from various harmful factors attacking the body from the outside and inside. Its main task is to prevent pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites from causing you harm and eliminate them from the body. Immunity is also responsible for removing toxins that have entered the body from the environment and are wreaking havoc on internal functions. Additionally, the immune system can be activated when there is an internal threat to a person's health, such as cancer cells.

When the immune system “switches on,” it means that foreign elements called antigens are attacking the body. Once antigens come in contact with the immune cells, the body starts collecting information about them and preparing its defense. Sometimes the information on harmful pathogens can be stored to help the body make antibodies against them more quickly the next time they attack. This occurrence is called the adaptive immune system and it helps you recover from the second round of the same disease, or protect you from contracting it again.

Besides adaptive, the body also has the innate immune system. This is general protection that fights off all germs and substances that have entered the body mostly through the skin or the digestive system [2&91;. While it may not be enough to prevent certain pathogens from causing harm, it can slow them down and give therapies a fighting chance to save your health or even your life. Because of this, it’s important to boost your immune system so it can face off against harmful attacks more efficiently and promptly.

Improving Your Immunity

One of the first things that come to mind when talking about an immune system boost is vaccines. They stimulate the production of antibodies to certain infectious invaders so that the body can fight off the infection in the future. Since they are not commonly received for every virus and bacteria out there, they are useful but limited. This is why it may be better to concentrate more on other immune system boosters, like changing your lifestyle.

Stress is often pointed out as one of the greatest troublemakers of the modern way of life. When a person is under constant stress, the body produces more cortisol — a steroid hormone that can make the immune system weak. Regular exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature are good ways to lower stress levels, although professional help, like psychotherapy, can also be useful. These techniques can also improve sleep, as lack of sleep is another byproduct of increased stress. During sleep, the body regenerates and new cells replace old ones, making the body stronger to fight against pathogens and toxins. If a person doesn't get 6–8 hours of sleep every night, they can hinder their immune system and be defenseless against allergies, colds and some other health issues [3&91;.

Your immune system is directly linked to your actions, so certain habits you enjoy may cause it damage. Smoking is harmful to the immune system because one cigarette consists of over 7,000 chemicals, some of them disrupting its protective function and leaving the body open to attacks, like respiratory pathogens. Diet is another important factor that can help you stay healthy, especially if you eat food full of vitamins and minerals, like vegetables and fruits [4&91;. Of course, avoiding close social interaction during seasonal infections, like the flu, frequent hand washing and maintaining good hygiene in the living space are also helpful ways to boost/protect your immune system.

Role Of Infrared Saunas In Boosting Immunity

Even though the modern age brought more stress into human life, it also introduced various means to deal with said stress, such as in-home infrared saunas. These therapeutic devices allow users to reap all the infrared therapy benefits in the privacy of their homes whenever they find it convenient. This alone is reason enough to avoid anxiety-induced stress due to awkward social encounters inside of saunas available in public spaces, e.g. spas.

Another infrared sauna benefit is its capacity to decrease cortisol levels and prevent its harmful effect on the immune system [5&91;. Adding an available ergonomic back support and head rest can enhance an infrared session, making the experience more relaxed, which in turn, can be beneficial for your sleep. Since the immune system is considered one of the ways to detoxify the body from harmful pathogens, giving it a helping hand can improve its functioning. Sweating is inevitable when in a far infrared sauna, like JNH Lifestyles’ Joyous Collection, which is popular for its detoxifying characteristics.

When people sweat, toxins, impurities and pathogens are flushed from the skin through pores, preventing them from entering the body [6&91;. This process is a valuable aid to the immune system by preventing further infiltration of these damaging attackers, giving the body a chance to defend itself from the inside. Moreover, infrared light can enhance the body's natural immune system so it can more efficiently fight off bacteria and heal the wounds faster [7&91;. So, regular infrared sauna sessions can help you boost your immune system in a comfortable way, and without having to leave your home.

Making Your Health A Priority

Your health should be No. 1 on your list of life priorities. Unfortunately, many remember this when their health is already jeopardized and understrain. To avoid this from happening, you can use some of the many available resources to boost your immune system and support it in the good fight to preserve your health. Infrared therapy is one of those helpful methods that can bring numerous benefits to its users through regular sessions. Have a look at the JNH Lifestyles’ offer and contact our specialists for further consultations about choosing the right personal infrared sauna for you. Don’t keep your immune system waiting to give it a fighting chance against lurking threats.

Resources

[1&91;Rimer J, et al. (2014). “Do all creatures possess an acquired immune system of some sort?” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/, National Center for Biotechnology Information, March 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24421210.

[2&91;Stuart E. Turvey, and David H. Broide. (2009). “Chapter 2: Innate Immunity.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, November 2009, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2832725/.

[3&91;Luciana Besedovsky, et al. (2011). “Sleep and immune function.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, November 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3256323/.

[4&91;Caroline E. Childs, et al. (2019). “Diet and Immune Function.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, August 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6723551/.

[5&91; Ryotokuji K, et al. (2013). “Preliminary results of pinpoint plantar long-wavelength infrared light irradiation on blood glucose, insulin, and stress hormones in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24204095.

[6&91;Genuis, Stephen J, et al. (2010). “Blood, Urine, and Sweat (BUS) Study: Monitoring and Elimination of Bioaccumulated Toxic Elements.” link.springer.com, Springer Nature, Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, November 2010, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00244-010-9611-5.

[7&91; Seung YoonCeline Lee, et al. (2011). “Enhancement of cutaneous immune response to bacterial infection after low-level light therapy with 1072 nm infrared light: A preliminary study.” www.sciencedirect.com, Science Direct, December 2011, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1011134411001989.

About 2-3% of the global population has psoriasis, which is an autoimmune skin disease that often develops between the ages of 15 and 25 [1&91;. This disease appears as red and itchy patches on the skin, such as on the elbows, knees or scalp. It also tends to frequently consist of cycles, which means a person with this chronic condition may experience remission for a period of time, followed by flare-ups. However, there are several ways you can calm the effects caused by psoriasis. But first, let's take a closer look at why psoriasis happens in the first place before we dive into treatment.

Psoriasis Causes

As previously stated, psoriasis can show itself as dry, red, scaly and itchy patches on your elbows, scalp, knees, or other parts of the body. It can range from only a couple of spots to several that may cover bigger areas. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition where the skin regenerates quickly, causing a build-up of skin cells [2&91;. This build-up rises to the surface, creating a scaly appearance and various discomforts.

Experts aren’t entirely sure why psoriasis happens. However, they have noticed a trend in potential triggers of the condition, including infection, climate changes, stress, smoking, medications, excessive alcohol consumption and skin injuries like a bug bite or a cut. Generally, it’s your immune system that attacks your cells, which causes your body to produce more skin in the affected area, leading to a build-up of skin cells. There also may be a genetic factor involved, but more research is necessary to determine precisely why this happens.

There are also various types of psoriasis, including:

• Plaque psoriasis - This is the most common type; affecting the skin and causing red and scaly patches.
• Nail psoriasis - Psoriasis can occur in the fingernails, causing abnormal growth or discoloration.
• Guttate psoriasis - This type of psoriasis is most common in children or adolescents, and creates scaly lesions on the trunk or extremities.
• Pustular psoriasis - This type is a more rare form of psoriasis, and is categorized by pus-filled lesions in large patches.
• Inverse psoriasis - Sometimes caused by fungal infections, this type of psoriasis impacts skin folds and may become worse due to sweat or friction.
• Erythrodermic psoriasis - This is the rarest form of psoriasis, where a large, red and peeling rash occurs across the entire body.
• Psoriatic arthritis - Like most forms of arthritis, this type of psoriasis results in painful joints and sometimes causes nail changes as well.

Psoriasis Treatment & How Infrared Saunas Can Help

Luckily, there are various ways to decrease the symptoms associated with psoriasis. In some cases, your doctor will prescribe certain medications for brief periods to help address severe symptoms, such as steroids, retinoid pills, methotrexate, and more. While moderate to severe cases typically involve the use of topical creams, like corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, calcineurin inhibitors and retinoids, infrared therapy can also decrease psoriasis symptoms.

Light therapy (infrared therapy) is frequently used to treat skin disorders, like psoriasis. In particular, studies have demonstrated near infrared light to help due to its ability to penetrate the skin and its use in other therapeutic realms [3&91;. It’s also suggested that infrared therapy may help improve wound healing, which could potentially help combat certain triggers leading to psoriasis or flare-ups, and help decrease the immune response [4&91;.

Infrared saunas are also commonly used to help individuals de-stress and relax and help reduce inflammation throughout the body [4&91;. Since stress is a common trigger of this disease, regular infrared sauna sessions can help eliminate this trigger and reduce flare-up incidences. Lastly, reducing inflammation can help decrease associated symptoms and prevent discomfort.

While infrared sauna use is an excellent addition to your regular health and wellness routine, it should not replace any treatment recommended by your doctor. Check with your family physician before using an infrared sauna and make sure it’s right for you. Once your doctor gives the green light, you can begin using infrared saunas to help not only combat your psoriasis but also improve your overall health and well-being.

Resources:

[1&91; National Psoriasis Foundation. (2020). “Statistics.” psoriasis.org, 2020, https://www.psoriasis.org/content/statistics.

[2&91; Mayo Clinic. (2020). “Psoriasis.” mayolinic.org, 2 May 2020, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/psoriasis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355840.

[3&91; Zhang P., & Wu M.X. (2018). “A clinical review of phototherapy for psoriasis.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Lasers in medical science, 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5756569/.

[4&91; Hussain J., & Cohen M. (2018). “Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 24 April 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941775/.

Today’s society is all about instant gratification. It’s one of the negative effects of technology; and often for weight loss, most people also turn to the quick fixes that give immediate results. The latest diet fads frequently boast about these fast and quick results. They claim to help you lose ten pounds in only two weeks or finally get the slim and toned body you’ve always wanted in less than six weeks. The only problem? Most people don’t keep the weight off that they lost. It happens all the time.

You lose the weight, you go off the diet, and you put it all back on again - and then some. It turns into a vicious cycle of yo-yo dieting with your health thrown to the roadside. So, why does this happen, and how can you stop it?

The Vicious Cycle of Diet Fads

Diet trends come and go, and they aren’t always accurate or true, nor are they always based on scientific evidence of any sort. Surprisingly, most individuals that go on a diet regain one-third to two-thirds of the weight lost back within a year, with 100% of the weight typically returning within five years. The same scientific review further states that one-third of these individuals will regain more weight than they had previously [1&91;.

Many of these diet fads, such as Weight Watchers or shake diets, are based on food restriction. Research shows that caloric restrictions lower your resting metabolic rate [2&91;. This means your body doesn’t burn as many calories at rest. It also means that, although you might not be eating an increased amount of food, your body stores any excess energy as fat. The more times you do this process of restriction and then stop, the more you are slowing down your metabolism.

You also may be causing various dysregulations through these restrictive diets. Since your body isn’t getting the energy it needs, it may divert energy to the essential processes. This may mean that you experience mood swings, disrupted sleep and other health issues. However, this doesn’t mean you need to live a life of continuous restricted dieting. No doctor or expert would recommend that. Below, we explore how you can lose weight and maintain that weight loss - no restricted diet fads necessary!

The Healthy Way to Lose Weight (And Maintain It)

When individuals go on a weight loss journey, most people find various evidence and claims indicating that reducing your calories is the only way to shed pounds. While healthy portion sizes are important, this isn’t the end-all, be-all to healthy and sustainable weight loss. Not all calories are created equal [3&91;. Different ratios of macronutrients impact your weight loss and its sustainability almost just as much.

Many people find it challenging to stick to their restrictive diet, so they binge eat. They might eat a whole bag of chips or multiple bowls of ice cream as they try to quench their cravings. Often, these cravings happen from nutrient deficiencies and imbalances. This is where macronutrient amounts come into play. Your dietary macronutrient intake can influence your caloric intake, helping you lose weight and sustain it. For instance, one study showed that increased protein intake increased feelings of fullness and improved appetite control in 27 overweight and obese men [4&91;.

The majority of individuals in the United States exceed the recommended amounts of calories from fats and added sugars [5&91;. Ultimately, this indicates that most individuals, especially looking to lose and sustain weight, need to strive for a more healthy and balanced diet. Unfortunately, this isn’t a quick fix to weight loss, but it is the best route toward sustainable weight loss and long-term health. Healthy weight loss takes time. Your body needs this time to adjust. Usually, your body is trying to maintain balance - including your weight. When you experience sudden and drastic weight loss (via a diet trend), your body isn’t prepared to maintain it. It’s still stuck trying to maintain the previous weight that you had before your rapid weight loss diet, which is also why you put all the weight back on again. In other words, slow and steady wins the race!

The Bottomline

Ditch the diet fads and diet trends for good this time. They aren’t in favor of you or your health. Instead, strive to lose or maintain weight through healthy practices, such as a balanced macronutrient intake and proper portion sizes. Adopting healthy habits is the best way to lose weight, and it will take you down a road toward better and life-long health and wellness.

Finding a healthy diet that works for you in the long-term is extremely important. One way to boost that diet is by incorporating an infrared sauna into your daily health routine. When used in conjunction with exercise and healthy meals, infrared saunas can help you feel absolutely amazing; not to mention all the amazing health benefits they have on their own. Buy one today and experience the JNH lifestyle!

Resources:

[1&91; Dulloo, A.G., & Montani, J.P. (2015). “Pathways from dieting to weight regain, to obesity and to the metabolic syndrome: an overview.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Obes Rev, February 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25614198.

[2&91; Redman, L. M., & Ravussin, E. (2011). “Caloric restriction in humans: impact on physiological, psychological, and behavioral outcomes.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 15 January 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3014770/.

[3&91; Hall, K. D., & Kahan, S. (2018). “Maintenance of Lost Weight and Long-Term Management of Obesity.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, The Medical clinics of North America, January 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5764193/.

[4&91; Campbell, W.W., Leidy, H.J., et al. (2011). “The effects of consuming frequent, higher protein meals on appetite and satiety during weight loss in overweight/obese men.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, Obesity (Silver Spring), April 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20847729.

[5&91; U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. (2017). “Facts & Statistics.” hhs.gov, 26 January 2017, https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/resource-center/facts-and-statistics/index.html.

When someone mentions a sauna, the first thing that comes to mind is a stuffy and hot space where you go to sweat, which has a ring of truth to it. Saunas have been present in human history in one form or another for thousands of years, since the Ancient Greeks and Romans. In some cultures, they had spiritual symbolism, like Native American sweat lodges. Mostly, they were used for sweating to cleanse the body of toxins.However, modern times brought new technologies into human existence, and saunas have remarkably evolved into an accessible resource to improve everyday life.

Enter infrared light,which has been causing quite a stir in the wellness community for years.Its therapeutic properties are well-documented through studies and research [1&91;, allowing it to be used for commercial purposes, like in personal infrared saunas. You can normally find this type of sauna in spa centers, gyms and wellness resorts all over the world as the latest trend for treating the body and mind. Now available as in-home devices, you can harvest all their benefits whenever you want without even having to leave your house.

Understanding Infrared Light

Before digging into infrared therapy benefits, it’s important to know something about these type of light waves. Infrared light is a more than two centuries old discovery by British astronomer Sir Frederick William Herschel. You can’t see it with the naked eye, but you can feel it as heat. Moreover, it has been in use for decades by various industries for diagnostic tools, appliances and many other useful purposes. Having said that, there are three types of infrared light: near infrared, mid infrared, and far infrared — each having positive effects on the human body.

Near infrared light penetrates the skin to the epidermis with wavelengths from 50,000 to 1,000,000 nm. It’s the shortest of the three and the closest to visible light. It has one distinguishable difference from other types of infrared light — it doesn’t emit detectable heat, but that doesn’t prevent it from having therapeutic benefits [2&91;. Mid infrared is used for laser technology and a wider range of medical conditions since it penetrates deeper under the skin. It operates with wavelengths from 3,000 to 5,000 nm and it has promising success in the anti-age industry since it increases the production of collagen and lessens fine lines known as rhytides [3&91;.

Far infrared has the most therapeutic applications since it heats the body from the inside [4&91;. This is possible because this infrared light penetrates the body deeper than the others, all the way to the fat tissue, with wavelengths from 780 to 3,000 nm. Sweating is the most common result of being exposed to far infrared, allowing the body to flush out toxins through the skin and help the kidneys and liver with detoxification [5&91;. It can also improve blood flow and increase circulation to all parts of the body which can, in turn, reduce cardiovascular risks and oxygenize the organs [6&91;.

Infrared Saunas And How They Work

The best way to understand how infrared saunas work is by knowing the principles of a traditional sauna, that is, the differences between the two. One of the easily experienced infrared sauna benefits is that the air in the cabin is not heavy, which allows you to breathe comfortably and have longer sessions. This happens because infrared heats the body from the inside while only slightly increasing the temperature in the cabin. Traditional saunas heat the body from the outside by raising the temperature of the room, which is why many people find them uncomfortable and cannot spend more than a few minutes inside.

Since infrared is technically a form of radiation, you are probably wondering whether infrared saunas are bad for you, and the answer is simple: no, they're not. Over the years, there have been numerous studies showing the enormous health benefits of infrared therapy, from helping with weight loss [7&91; to boosting the immune system [8&91;. So, whether infrared saunas are healthy depends solely on their use as per the manufacturer’s instructions, like any other appliance in the household.

Bringing Health And Comfort Together

Infrared saunas are a wonderful way to create a spa-like atmosphere in your home that can have positive outcomes for your physical and mental health. If you are trying to change your lifestyle for the better, using infrared therapy can be a valuable tool to attain this goal, especially if you have certain underlying health conditions, like chronic back pain [9&91;.More importantly, an in-home infrared sauna allows you total control of the time you can dedicate to your health and relaxation.

Resources

[1&91; Shang-Ru Tsai and Michael R Hamblin. (2017).“Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, May 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5505738/.

[2&91; Whelan HT,et al. (2001). “Effect of NASA light-emitting diode irradiation on wound healing.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, December 2001, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11776448.

[3&91; Elizabeth L. Tanzi, et al. (2003). “Treatment of Facial Rhytides With a Nonablative 1,450‐nm Diode Laser: A Controlled Clinical and Histologic Study.” onlinelibrary.wiley.com, Wiley Online Library, February 2003,https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1524-4725.2003.29046.x.

[4&91;Fatma Vatansever and Michael R. Hamblin. (2012). “Far-infrared radiation (FIR): its biological effects and medical applications.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, The National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2012, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3699878/.

[5&91; Sears, Margaret E, et al. (2012).“Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury in Sweat: A Systematic Review.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, February 2012, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312275/.

[6&91; Beever Richard. (2009). “Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2009, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2718593/.

[7&91; Kim, Sungwoon, et al. (2017). “Does treadmill walking with near-infrared light applied to the abdominal area reduce local adiposity and body weight?” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5684004/.

[8&91; Seung YoonCeline Lee, et al. (2011). “Enhancement of cutaneous immune response to bacterial infection after low-level light therapy with 1072 nm infrared light: A preliminary study.” www.sciencedirect.com, Science Direct, December 2011, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1011134411001989.

[9&91; Mero, Antti, et al. (2015). “Effects of far-infrared sauna bathing on recovery from strength and endurance training sessions in men.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4493260/.

[10&91; Gale, George D,et al. (2006). “Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain: A randomized, controlled trial.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2006, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2539004/.

In-home infrared saunas can bring a lot of benefits to their users,like saving money you would splurge on spa memberships while simultaneously improving your health [1&91;. While it is more comfortable to have one of these amazing therapeutic devices in your home, it does not mean you have to forgo some of the basic rules most public centers enforce. In spa centers and gyms, you have to cover yourself up for hygienic reasons and common decency. At home, this rule may not be as strict, but you still need to follow some proper guidelines so your stay in an infrared sauna cabin is comfortable and has you harvesting the best results.

Besides advice to shower before starting a session and removing your makeup to avoid irritation of the skin, you also need to pay attention to your outfits for the sauna. This refers to what not to wear inside the cabin, like jewelry, shoes, a watch or electronic devices.However, it mostly regards materials and types of clothing pieces fit for infrared therapy that can help your skin breathe and allow you to experience the benefits in the best possible way.

Sauna Dress Code And Etiquette

Sauna dress code can be a bit different from the normally applied moral rules present in society. In Finland, for example, saunas were regarded as places of healing where women gave birth and patients were sent to recover from certain illnesses. Because of this, hygiene was very important, so all users had to enter the sauna naked. Nudity was far from being accepted in public as it is today, making saunas an exception to that rule.

People commonly observe nudity as sexual, which is the main reason why many feel uncomfortable, and even appalled, when it comes to a scant sauna outfit or lack of one. Unless specified differently, all saunas are co-ed, meaning individuals of both genders have to spend time inside the cabin together — naked. However, this extreme etiquette is mostly present in Northern Europe, like Scandinavian countries, while in other parts of the world, especially the West, you are expected to wear at least a towel.

Owning an infrared sauna in your home not only allows you to use it whenever you want, but it also grants you permission to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. Of course, not all types of materials and clothing are good to sweat in, and some can, for instance, cause your body to overheat. So, while you have options when it comes to infrared sauna outfits, you still have to pay attention to some details to avoid discomfort and certain skin issues, like allergies and irritation.

Choosing The Perfect Sauna Outfit

One of the important benefits of infrared saunas is what they can do for the skin. Their contribution to the reduction of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as increasing collagen concentrations can play an important part in skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatment [2&91;. This process starts inside the infrared cabin, but it does not end there. More particularly, when you spend time inside an infrared sauna, like JNH Lifestyles’ Joyous Collection, you will start to sweat a lot.

Sweating is good for a number of medical reasons, especially as a means to cleanse your body and eliminate toxins, but the heat also opens pores and rids them of impurities [3&91;. Opening pores is also beneficial for acne [4&91; and can enhance the absorption of your beauty skincare products, like moisturizer and anti-aging creams. It is for this reason that you have to wear loose-fitting clothes so your skin has room to sweat freely, avoiding the blockage of pores. A tight sauna outfit can worsen certain conditions, like eczema, since it increases the irritation of the affected area by accumulating sweat on the material touching the skin.

Aside from picking loose outfits for the sauna, you also need to pay attention to the type of materials used for their manufacture. Look for the fabrics that will allow your skin to breathe, since doing so can help you sweat less than you usually would and not feel too hot. The idea is to have a comfortable infrared sauna session, so go for natural materials, like cotton or linen. Nylon, polyester and other synthetic materials used to make active-wear clothing are also fine as long as this sauna outfit allows the air to flow freely around your body.

A Little Effort For The Best Experience

If you are unsure about what to wear, it is always best to choose an infrared sauna outfit that is the simplest, like a bathing suit. Spending time inside the cabin nude is also fine, as long as you spread a towel on the seating area and the floor beneath you to absorb the sweat. A loose and over-sized tunic or dress may be just the perfect sauna outfit for those too shy to wear a bathing suit, go topless, or even nude under a towel.

While fabrics used for making sports bras and yoga pants are good for the sauna, the actual design of this active-wear clothing is not since it is too close to the skin. Moreover, once they are soaked in sweat, you may have trouble taking these clothes off after your sauna session. Rings, bracelets, earrings and other types of jewelry can get damaged or cause burns if not taken off before entering the cabin. Some jewelry materials can leave stains on the skin, like copper, when in prolonged contact with sweat, so it is better to leave them outside. After all, the less you wear, the better you receive all the positive effects of infrared therapy.

In The End, It’s Your Sauna — Your Rules

One of the blessings of personal infrared saunas is that you set the rules about the appropriate dress code. This depends on whether you are the only user of the infrared cabin or you share it with other members of your household. It also has a lot to do with how you feel about your body and can even help you accept the way you look and gain a more positive image of yourself. Just remember the basics, like showering before every session and regularly cleaning the cabin after use for the highest hygienic conditions. Other than that, put on your favorite sauna outfit (or don’t) and enjoy all the benefits of infrared therapy at your home.

Resources

[1&91; Tsai, S, et al. (2017). “Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation.” sciencedirect.com, Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, Volume 170, May 2017, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1011134416311691.

[2&91; Wunsch, A and Matuschka, K. (2014). “A Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy of Red and Near-Infrared Light Treatment in Patient Satisfaction, Reduction of Fine Lines, Wrinkles, Skin Roughness, and Intradermal Collagen Density Increase.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information,February 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3926176/.

[3&91;Parpaleĭ IA, et al. (1991). “The use of the sauna for disease prevention in the workers of enterprises with chemical and physical occupational hazards”. europepmc.org, Europe PMC, May 1991, https://europepmc.org/article/med/1866932#similar-articles.

[4&91; Paithankar DY, Ross EV, et al. (2002). “Acne treatment with a 1,450 nm wavelength laser and cryogen spray cooling.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2002, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12210594.

Diabetes is a serious disease that affects millions of people every year all over the world, and it seems this trend is on the rise. Based on the data from the World Health Organization, the number of diabetes patients increased to 422 million in 2014 compared to the 108 million registered in 1980. A staggering 1.6 million deaths were attributed to diabetes in 2016, making it the seventh leading cause of fatal outcomes for that year according to WHO.

These facts only stress the importance that this disease should not be taken lightly since it can affect people regardless of gender, age and race. Although it is most prevalent in low to middle-income countries, diabetes is present in all classes of the population, even among the rich and famous. Some types of diabetes depend on lifestyle and habits, like type 2 diabetes, which is the most present form of the disease worldwide [1&91;. Type 1 diabetes, on the other hand,is caused when a person's own immune system attacks the insulin cells in the pancreas and is believed to be connected to a wider array of causes, like genetics and hereditary factors [2&91;.

Whatever the cause, all types of diabetes carry certain symptoms that can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life. Besides medication, other ways may help control the symptoms of diabetes, with the use of infrared therapy being one of them. So, to understand how to deal with signs of diabetes, it’s important to know more about the disease and how you can personally contribute to its relief.

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes or diabetes mellitus (how it is medically referred to) is a disease that causes a rise in blood sugar levels. It is directly tied to insulin production and its metabolic role to transfer sugar from blood to the cells. Those who suffer from diabetes do not have enough insulin or their bodies cannot use the deposits they make in the right way. Based on how the body treats insulin, there are several types of diabetes:

• Prediabetes condition — higher blood sugar but not sufficiently high to diagnose type 2 diabetes.
• Type 1 diabetes — an autoimmune response causing little or no production of insulin in the pancreas.
• Type 2 diabetes — the body does not use insulin properly which leads to rising blood sugar levels.
• Gestational diabetes — happens during pregnancy when the placenta produces hormones blocking insulin and causing high blood sugar levels.

Diabetes symptoms, like weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, increased thirst, frequent urination and blurry vision can occur with all types of this disease. However, some are specifically connected to gender, like erectile dysfunction for men and yeast urinary tract infections for women. If diabetes signs are left untreated or caught late, they may cause damage to certain organs, usually kidneys and eyes, and nerves.

The most commonly encountered type of diabetes is type 2, caused by physical inactivity, excess weight, high blood pressure, increased triglycerides and high cholesterol, as well as unhealthy habits, diet, and stress [3&91;. But leading a fulfilling life with diabetes symptoms can be possible with certain adjustments and healthy practices.

Infrared Saunas And Diabetes Symptoms

Among many infrared sauna benefits, patients with diabetes can find several ways to control and lessen their symptoms. Spending time inside an infrared sauna can lead to the expansion of blood vessels and improved circulation because of the heat therapy it provides. This can be beneficial for people with high blood pressure — one of the major risks for developing or worsening diabetes symptoms since regular use of infrared therapy can lower said blood pressure [4&91;. Infrared saunas can have a wide range of benefits when it comes to cardiovascular risks [5&91;, something that diabetes patients can be more susceptible to. One of these infrared therapy benefits is the improvement of endothelial function, a condition that is common in diabetics and may be the early onset of hardening of the arteries, also known as arteriosclerosis [6&91;.

Since stress can aggravate the symptoms of diabetes or lead to the onset of this disease, regular use of infrared light therapy may reduce cortisol levels, normalizing blood glucose levels, and improving insulin sensitivity [7&91;.Some of the diabetes symptoms are sores and infections, especially on feet, which heal too slowly or do not heal at all, and that can lead to serious complications. Near infrared therapy can stimulate healing and help in the treatment of cutaneous wounds, which can develop in some diabetic patients [8&91;.

Infrared therapy can also be good for those currently working on losing weight or trying to maintain their current one [9&91;. Obesity can lead to high cholesterol levels, increased triglycerides, and chronic inflammation, one of the major causes of insulin resistance in the liver, muscle and fat [10&91;. Since infrared saunas have anti-inflammatory properties, they can help with these symptoms of diabetes as well [11&91;.Patients at risk of developing diabetes or already suffering from the disease still have to pay attention to their diet and be physically active, but combining both with infrared therapy can help them mitigate diabetic symptoms, as well as help maintain a healthy weight.

Living A Healthy Lifestyle

Whether you have diabetes or precursors to developing this disease, you can still do a lot to live a healthy life and adopt more beneficial habits. JNH Lifestyles’ infrared saunas, like the ones from the Joyous Collection, provide access to thermal therapy in the comfort of your home and with minimal costs. With regular exposure to infrared therapy, you can improve quality of life, even if you already suffer from diabetes type 2 or have the prediabetes condition [12&91;.

Even though infrared saunas are not a cure, it is a powerful resource for fighting diabetes symptoms with your prescribed therapy and routine checkups by your physician. Changing habits and lifestyle can be hard, but an infrared sauna can make it more comfortable and help you make the first step toward enhancing your health.

Resources

[1&91; Hubert Kolband Stephan Martin. (2017). “Environmental/lifestyle factors in the pathogenesis and prevention of type 2 diabetes.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5516328/.

[2&91; Marian Rewers and Johnny Ludvigsson. (2016). “Environmental risk factors for type 1 diabetes.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5571740/.

[3&91; Marcovecchio, ML, and Chiarelli, F. (2013). “The effects of acute and chronic stress on diabetes control.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23092890.

[4&91;Brunt, V. E, et al. (2016). ”Passive heat therapy improves endothelial function, arterial stiffness and blood pressure in sedentary humans.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27270841.

[5&91; Beever,R. (2009). “Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2009, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2718593/.

[6&91; Imamura M, et al. (2001). “Repeated thermal therapy improves impaired vascular endothelial function in patients with coronary risk factors.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2001, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11583886.

[7&91; Ryotokuji K, et al. (2013). “Preliminary results of pinpoint plantar long-wavelength infrared light irradiation on blood glucose, insulin and stress hormones in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24204095.

[8&91; Byrnes KR, et al. (2004). “Photobiomodulation improves cutaneous wound healing in an animal model of type II diabetes.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, August 2004, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15345169.

[9&91; Kim, Sungwoon, et al. (2017). “Does treadmill walking with near-infrared light applied to the abdominal area reduce local adiposity and body weight?” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5684004/.

[10&91; Carl de Luca and Jerrold M. Olefsky. (2008). “Inflammation and Insulin Resistance.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, January 2008, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2246086/.

[11&91; Michael R. Hamblin. (2017). “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, May 2017,https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5523874/.

[12&91; Beever, R. (2010). “The effects of repeated thermal therapy on quality of life in patients with type II diabetes mellitus.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20569036.

There are many debilitating diseases affecting millions of people, and arthritis is among one of the top offenders. In Australia alone, over 3.6 million people suffer from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and 'other type and unknown.' This chronic disease limits people’s ability to work, function, and do everyday things, like shopping, cooking, brushing their teeth, virtually anything that requires some kind of movement.

While no cure will rid sufferers completely of this disease, there are ways to make life more bearable and less painful. One of the ways to do that is through the regular use of infrared therapy as a natural pain reliever. But before we get into the benefits of infrared saunas and the mitigating effects they can have on arthritis, let's understand how this disease works.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a painful inflammation of the joints and connective tissue, with more than 100 different types requiring different therapeutic approaches. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the two most commonly occurring, affecting 458,000 and 2.2 million Australians, respectively. It can affect one joint or more, leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain that may only get worse over time. Another downside of arthritis is reduced motor skills, like movement, grip, and other types of motion.

Sometimes, arthritis can involve internal organs and the immune system, as well as cause widespread symptoms, as is the case with lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. While it is a popular belief that arthritis affects only the older population, namely 65 and older, it is also present among younger people, including children.

The most common cause of arthritis is the reduction of cartilage — the firm connective tissue in the joints. It serves to protect the joints by absorbing the shock due to movement or pressure. Osteoarthritis is caused by this wear and tear of cartilage, which can develop faster if there is an infection or injury to the joints. Genetically speaking, if a patient has a history of this condition in their family, there is a good possibility they will contract it at some point in their life.

On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, which occurs when the immune system attacks the tissue called the synovium. This tissue is responsible for producing the fluid that lubricates the joints and nourishes the cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis not only prevents synovium from serving its function, but can also lead to the destruction of cartilage and bone of the joint. While the question of why the immune system attacks the synovium is still puzzling scientists, possessing certain genetic markers may increase the risk of developing this disease.

Impact Of Arthritis On Quality Of Life

Arthritis does not only cause pain in the joints, but can also have a negative impact on mental health and daily activities. This can greatly affect patients' work productivity and health, causing a decrease in quality of life [1&91;. For example, arthritis in hands can prevent a person from doing simple tasks like writing, typing, or even holding something since flexing is painful and sometimes even hard to do. When it comes to arthritis in knees, a sufferer may have trouble sitting down, standing up, walking, and may even need some sort of aid like a cane or braces.

Patients can also fight the inflammation and enhance their condition by improving their diet. Food groups like vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and fish can help with the symptoms of arthritis by improving joint health. Another important factor is physical activity, which may be harder for people with arthritis, but far from impossible. Exercises intended specifically for joints can relieve pain and make them more flexible. Being physically active can also help keep your weight under control and ease the pressure on joints, especially on the ankles and knees. Thanks to these two beneficial methods, not only can patients make their arthritis symptoms physically easier, they can also also boosts their mental health.

Prevention And Treatment

Unfortunately, arthritis is not always preventable. Aging, gender, family history, and genetics play a big part in whether a person is susceptible to arthritis or not. Prevention is always welcome since it can help and at least postpone the onset of this disease.

One of the recommended ways to fight against arthritis is by eating fish. Some fish are full of omega-3 fatty acids that have known health benefits for many conditions, and arthritis is one of them. Eating fish such as trout, mackerel, and salmon on a regular basis, as well as taking omega-3 supplements, may lower the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis [2&91;. Avoiding injury, controlling weight, and exercising, as well as protecting the joints and having regular check-ups with your doctor are other methods to improve your chances against arthritis.

When it comes to treatment, there are a range of methods — from arthritis medication to physical therapy. Medications are not the same in all arthritis cases and your therapy you will depend on your condition and severity of the disease. Usually, arthritis medication includes analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)for the pain and/or corticosteroids for inflammation.

A doctor may prescribe creams and ointments for the pain as well, which are available over-the-counter. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) may also be used to prevent the immune system from attacking the synovium. Sometimes they are used together with biologics — medicines intended to modify the biological response by targeting protein molecules taking part in the immune response. Other than that, physical therapy, diet, weight management programs, and infrared therapy can also help to keep arthritis under control and allow sufferers to live as normally as possible.

How Infrared Saunas Can Help

Infrared light can make it possible to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis early on, but this is only the beginning of how infrared therapy can help someone live more comfortably with arthritis and its debilitating symptoms [3&91;. When it comes to pain, infrared saunas can be an excellent way to lessen the aches through regular sessions of 30–40 minutes at least three times a week [4&91;.

Elderly with arthritis in the knee may feel improvement of pain and disability after using infrared saunas [5&91;.By reducing the pain, infrared therapy may have extended benefits on the quality of life, such as improving sleep, mobility, and mood of the person suffering from arthritis. Infrared also has the potential to directly affect the immune system’s reaction to synovium and reduce inflammation, although this research is still underway [6&91;.

The benefits of in-home sauna

In-home infrared saunas, like JNH Lifestyles’ Joyous Collection offer the benefits of having all wavelengths at your disposal in the comfort of your own home. Sometimes, even the slightest movement can be painful, especially with those suffering from arthritis of hands and knees. A personal sauna can help them begin their treatment sooner and in their homes, without discomfort of going elsewhere for infrared therapy. While there is no cure for arthritis, the disease is manageable with medication, physical therapy, a healthy lifestyle, and helpful in-home methods like infrared therapy.

Resources:

[1&91; Xavier,R.M.,et al. (2019). “Burden of rheumatoid arthritis on patients’ work productivity and quality of life.” advancesinrheumatology.biomedcentral.com, Advances in Rheumatology, November 2019, https://advancesinrheumatology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42358-019-0090-8.

[2&91; Di Giuseppe,D,et al. (2014). “Long-term intake of dietary long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and risk of rheumatoid arthritis: a prospective cohort study of women.” ard.bmj.com, Annals of the Rheumatic Disease, November 2014, https://ard.bmj.com/content/73/11/1949.

[3&91; Lighter,D,et al. (2019). “Detecting inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis using Fourier transform analysis of dorsal optical transmission images from a pilot study.” piedigitallibrary.org, SPIE Digital Library, June 2019, https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/journals/journal-of-biomedical-optics/volume-24/issue-06/066008/Detecting-inflammation-in-rheumatoid-arthritis-using-Fourier-transform-analysis-of/10.1117/1.JBO.24.6.066008.full?SSO=1.

[4&91; Gale, G.D,et al. (2006). “Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain: A randomized, controlled trial.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2006, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2539004/.

[5&91; Stelian,J,et al. (1992). “Improvement of pain and disability in elderly patients with degenerative osteoarthritis of the knee treated with narrow-band light therapy.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, January 1992, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1727843.

[6&91; Imaoka,A,et al. (2014). “Reduction of IL-20 Expression in Rheumatoid Arthritis by Linear Polarized Infrared Light Irradiation.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4112279/.

Using colors for therapeutic purposes is nothing new. People respond to certain colors on a psychological level, encouraging them to feel or behave a certain way.This type of approach is considered an alternative medicine method, along with practices like reflexology and acupuncture. Since humans, as well as other living beings, react to light and dark, they are also stimulated by the presence of colors or their absence.

When it comes to chromotherapy, this approach is based on the fact that color is a type of light comprised of electromagnetic energy. Different colors have different intensities of this energy. If you observe this from an alternative medicine standpoint, the body consists of energy fields known as chakras, which are believed to be responsible for a person's well being. When chakra is unbalance, that can affect behavior and physical health, but chromotherapy can help one to realign themselves.

Psychology recognizes colors as a valuable resource that can help people recover from trauma, elevate mood, affect appetite, and have an overall soothing effect. This is why you will often find walls in hospitals painted green or blue, with both colors symbolizing life, tranquility, and healing. Sunlight is the best example of how much color can affect someone's life. Lack of sunshine makes people moody, depressed, less productive, and lethargic, something often observed in winter or during cloudy days.

With so many benefits of light therapy, JNH Lifestyles added a chromotherapy bulb to enhance the experience in its infrared saunas. But before we explore all the benefits it leads to today, let us take a step back into the past and find out how light therapy came to be.

History of Light Therapy

A long time ago, ancient civilizations, like Egypt, Greece, India, and China used color light therapy. For example, ancient Egyptians used colors to imitate things from nature. They painted their temple floors green to resemble the grass growing on the banks of the Nile. Blue was also greatly present in their lives, showing respect for the bright skies. Some papyri from 1550 BC even mention color as a "cure." Records show them having temples for healing,which used crystals to create colors when the sun shone through them.

The Chinese, on the other hand, connected colors with natural elements — fire, water, earth, wood, and metal. They used them to build energy in the body through Feng Shui. In India, Ayurveda practitioners believe that every living being is covered with a coat of many colors that change based on a person's mental and physical health. In ancient Greece, Aristotle was one of the first people to present theories and studies regarding light.

When the Middle Ages arrived, Paracelsus revisited the idea of using color rays for healing by combining them with herbs and music. At the time, he was ridiculed and all his work was burned, but today he is considered one of the best medicine men of his time. In a way, he was a pioneer of light therapy by using techniques that are widely used today.

Color always played a crucial part in human life and development. After all, it inspired Sir William Herschel to experiment and discover infrared light, among others. The famous psychiatrist Carl Jung believed that colors are associated with different stages of a person's life. Throughout time, many healers, physicians, scientists, and psychiatrists recognized the impact colors have on humans. Edwin Dwight Babbitt was one of the first promoters of chromotherapy, whom many even consider its pioneer. In the 19th century, he published a book called The Principles of Light and Color, in an effort to introduce a new therapeutic system. Dinshah P. Ghadiali is another person who strongly believed in chromotherapy and continued his study of color further into the beginning of the 20th century.

Chromotherapy And Infrared Saunas

Using infrared saunas already exposes you to the health benefits of infrared therapy [1&91;. From lowering blood pressure, reducing cardiovascular risks, and improving the condition of your skin, to lessening pain, helping you relax and encouraging a better night's sleep. An infrared sauna session is highly beneficial by itself, but by complimenting it with a chromotherapy bulb, you can harvest even more positive health benefits depending on the colors you choose [2&91;.

JNH Lifestyles’ Chromotherapy Light brings six color options to the table: red, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Every JNH Lifestyle's infrared sauna is equipped with a socket to install the bulb, which is sold separately on our website. By incorporating the use of color therapy while inside an infrared sauna, you can enhance your spiritual and physical energy. In order to take advantage of the most relevant color to your life, you should know more about its benefits as your light therapy.

Red can increase energy, making your heart beat faster, which improves circulation. This is especially beneficial if you feel fatigued, are suffering from low blood pressure, have anemia, and/or feel apathetic. Yellow can be great for concentration, stimulating the brain and helping fend off signs of depression. As mentioned before, blue has a soothing effect and can help with insomnia, stress, and anxiety. Blue is a good color to use in an infrared sauna to enhance its beneficial effects for lowering high blood pressure and to create a more relaxed environment [3&91;.

Violet is the color of spirituality, ideal for people who suffer from anxiety and depression. It is recommended for emotional distress, nervousness, and sleep problems. Similarly, green inspires balance and harmony; because of its energizing properties, it can help with boosting the immune system and lessening headaches. Before you use any of the available colors, listen to your body and find the one that suits your current mood.

Advantage of Infrared Sauna Accessories

If you want to gain maximum results from using infrared saunas, you should try the many accessories available at JNH Lifestyles, like the chromotherapy light. The great advantage of having a personal infrared sauna is that you can upgrade it any way you want and make your sessions more comfortable. To find out more about chromotherapy and its benefits, speak with one of our JNH Lifestyles’ specialists to better understand the importance of adding chromotherapy to your infrared sauna.

Resources:

[1&91;Hussain, J and Cohen, M. (2018). “Clinical Effects of Regular Dry Sauna Bathing: A Systematic Review.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, The National Center for Biotechnology Information, April 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5941775/.

[2&91;Samina T. Yousuf Azeemi and S. Mohsin Raza. (2005). “A Critical Analysis of Chromotherapy and Its Scientific Evolution.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, The National Center for Biotechnology Information, December 2005, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1297510/.

[3&91;Adamskaya, N, et al. (2011). “Light therapy by blue LED improves wound healing in an excision model in rats.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, The National Center for Biotechnology Information, September 2011, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22081819.

Working out has never been more important than today. With increased pollution, compromised immune systems and an unhealthy lifestyle, medical experts consider moderate physical activity something that could help increase the quality of life for virtually everyone. Physical inactivity is a problem of global proportions, some even go so far as to call it a pandemic. It causes a variety of health problems, like Type 2 Diabetes, cancers, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases.

Based on a worldwide study by the World Health Organization, physical inactivity is the leading cause of non-communicable diseases, mental health problems and decreased quality of life. This research included 1.9 million participants from 2001 to 2016 and evaluated how much activity people have at home, work, during leisure time and when commuting. The survey was conducted in 168 countries and showed worrisome results. For example, the proportion of inactive people in the US increased from 32% in 2001 to 37% in 2016. The goal is to achieve a 10% reduction of inactivity by 2025, but based on the numbers in this study, progress is slow.

Health is more than just numbers and statistics — it's an individual responsibility that can set a positive example for future generations and improve public health. Prevention is considered better than treatment and cheaper than medical bills. Only 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week can give you enough prevention to improve your health, both physically and mentally. Let’s see why:

1. It Can Boost Your Mood

Something as simple as a 30-minute cardio session five times a week can boost your mood and make you feel energized. When you’re physically active, your body produces hormones and neurotransmitters that positively affect your mood. Among them, the most famous ones are the so-called feel-good hormones or endorphins. Exercise can be a valuable tool to treat depression [1&91; since it can improve a person's mood immediately by decreasing tension and anger [2&91;.

2. It Can Help You Lose Weight

Inactivity is one of the main reasons for putting on extra weight and even being obese. During a workout, the metabolism of your body increases and you start burning calories [3&91;. Being on a diet alone may shred the pounds, but it can also be damaging for your body and lead to malnourishment and eating disorders. If you want to become fit and lose weight in a healthy way, it's best to combine physical activity with the proper diet prescribed by a professional dietician. That way, you can still get desired results without impairing your health and causing more problems.

3. Exercise Can Reduce The Risk Of Chronic Disease

Being physically inactive is the leading cause of chronic disease and that’s a fact [4&91;. If you regularly work out, you can improve cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, lower blood pressure, and decrease fat levels. In turn, you can enhance your chances of avoiding stroke, heart attack, Type 2 Diabetes, liver failure and other life-threatening diseases. Daily exercise can decrease belly fat, the most dangerous one in the body that may lead to these serious conditions.

4. Good For Bones And Muscles

Muscles and bones require regular maintenance, just like any other part of your body. The best way to get results is by adding weight lifting to your workout plan. Muscle mass and function deteriorate with age, which is why injuries are more common in older people. With regular workouts, you can build mass and prevent its loss so you remain strong as you age. When it comes to bones, exercise can increase their density and prevent the onset of some diseases, like osteoporosis. For all these reasons, physical activities like running and gymnastics are heavily promoted from a young age in school as a method of preserving musculoskeletal health during aging [5&91;.

5. Working Out Can Help You Manage Stress

Besides being a mood booster, exercise can be an excellent way to keep stress under control. When you are exposed to stressors, the body produces adrenaline and cortisol which increases your stress levels and builds up anxiety. Among other things, being under constant stress can lead to depression and sleeping disorders, increase cardiovascular risk, and affect your social interactions. Besides endorphins, your body produces other good hormones during working out, like dopamine and serotonin. They can make you feel more relaxed, clear your head, improve your sleep [6&91; and increase your energy levels [7&91;.

How Infrared Saunas Can Enhance Your Workout Results

Infrared sauna benefits can be a valuable tool to increase the results of your workout and even improve your endurance [8&91;. Working out before an infrared sauna session can enhance weight loss results [9&91;, lessen inflammation [10&91;, and contribute to sweating out toxins (detox) [11&91;. By enhancing all the benefits you normally get from exercise, you're also increasing the quality of your life. Consult with a JNH specialists and start living your best years without delay.

Resources:

[1&91;Kvam, S, et al. (2016). “Exercise as a treatment for depression: A meta-analysis.” sciencedirect.com, Science Direct, September 2016, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032715314221.

[2&91;Basso, J.C. and Suzuki, W.A. (2017). “The Effects of Acute Exercise on Mood, Cognition, Neurophysiology, and Neurochemical Pathways: A Review.” content.iospress.com, IOS Press Content Library, March 2017, https://content.iospress.com/articles/brain-plasticity/bpl160040.

[3&91; Gilliat-Wimberly, M, et al. (2001). “Effects of habitual physical activity on the resting metabolic rates and body compositions of women aged 35 to 50 years.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2001, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11678489.

[4&91; Booth,F.W, et al. (2012). “Lack of exercise is a major cause of chronic diseases.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, April 2012, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4241367/.

[5&91; Zulfarina, MS, et al. (2016). “Influence of Adolescents' Physical Activity on Bone Mineral Acquisition: A Systematic Review Article.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, December 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28053920.

[6&91; Kredlow, M.A, et al. (2015). “The effects of physical activity on sleep: a meta-analytic review.” ncbi.nlm.nih.go/, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25596964/.

[7&91; Puetz,T.W, et al. (2008). “A randomized controlled trial of the effect of aerobic exercise training on feelings of energy and fatigue in sedentary young adults with persistent fatigue.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, February 2008, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18277063.

[8&91; Pinto, H.D, et al. (2016). “Photobiomodulation Therapy Improves Performance And Accelerates Recovery Of High-Level Rugby Players In Field Test: A Randomized, Crossover, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, December 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27050245.

[9&91; Podstawski, R, et al. (2014).“Sauna-Induced Body Mass Loss in Young Sedentary Women and Men.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, December 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4295591/.

[10&91;Hamblin, M.R. (2017). “Mechanisms and applications of the anti-inflammatory effects of photobiomodulation.” aimspress.com/journal/biophysics, AIMS Biophysics, May 2017, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317346378_Mechanisms_and_applications_of_the_anti-inflammatory_effects_of_photobiomodulation.

[11&91; Sears, M.E, et al. (2012). “Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury in Sweat: A Systematic Review.” hindawi.com, Journal of Environmental and Public Health, February 2012, https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jeph/2012/184745/.

An infrared sauna is one of the most popular wellness trends in the industry right now. The fact that you can have one in your home for an affordable price helps tremendously, but it is the infrared therapy benefits that attract most of the attention [1&91;. Infrared light (aka infrared waves) has been used in physical therapy for a while now to treat acute or chronic pain in conditions like arthritis, muscle strain, back pain, and many others [2&91;. The benefits, though, are not only aimed at improving physical health, but can also be helpful for relaxing, sleeping better, and lessening signs of depression [3&91;.

Although having an infrared sauna in your home may give you the impression that you can use it any way you want, that's not the case. Just like any other infrared sauna, you need to respect certain rules before, during, and after your sessions to maintain the utmost hygiene and safety conditions.

Here are some sauna tips for beginners to help you have the best experience and most satisfying benefits from your personal infrared sauna.

1. Drink A Lot Of Water

Infrared saunas, just like traditional saunas, can make you sweat profusely, naturally causing one to lose large amounts of fluids. Sweating is good for you since it can purge toxins and impurities from your pores, giving your skin a radiant glow and even helping with other conditions, like acne [4&91;. On the other hand though, too much sweating can leave you feeling nauseated, fatigued, or may even cause you to faint due to the lack of water in your system.

To prevent this from happening, you need to hydrate before using an infrared sauna, as well as after. You can also bring a bottle of water into the cabin, but that won’t be enough to keep you hydrated. You need to start building up fluid levels hours before you intend to have your infrared session. If you are not a disciplined water drinker, you can try adding some flavors with fresh fruits and vegetables. Slices of cucumber, lemon, grapefruit, and ginger are refreshing and will even add a vitamin kick into the mix.

2. Always Take A Shower Before Going Into The Cabin

While sweating can remove impurities from your skin, it should not be a replacement for a shower. Regardless of whether you bought a one-person infrared sauna or another intended for more people, the hygiene inside the cabin must be at the maximum level. This is an especially important rule if you combine infrared saunas with your workout and have a session after exercise [5&91;. If you decide to enter the cabin without a shower, you can bring an unpleasant smell and prevent others in your home from enjoyably experiencing the benefits of infrared saunas. This is something you can easily resolve with a quick shower before you start your infrared sauna session.

3. Dress In Cotton Clothes

Even though you can technically go into your infrared sauna naked, it is best to have a towel to sit on, keeping the bench clean and free of sweat. Consider using cotton towels since this is a natural fabric and will not cause any irritation when in direct contact with your skin.

If you do not feel comfortable being completely naked inside the cabin, you can wear an oversized T-shirt or a tunic. Make sure they are 100% cotton,since synthetic materials prevent heat from escaping, causing discomfort after just a few minutes into an infrared session.

Once you are done, throw the clothes and towels into the laundry basket and do not use them again until after they have been washed. Do not go inside the sauna in your sweaty workout clothes, sweatsuits, and shoes. Wearing footwear during an infrared sauna session is especially not wise since it can lead to the onset of athlete’s foot or other yeast infections due to the build up of heat inside the shoes.

4. Take Your Time

If you are a first-timer, it is best to start with shorter sessions until your body acclimates to the heat. At which point, you can then gradually increase the time until you arrive at the recommended 40 minutes a session. Be sure not to rush your progress, take it slowly and be patient. After a couple of weeks, you will get used to the heat and look forward to your daily infrared therapy sessions.

Think of the time spent in your infrared sauna as a perfect way to have some “me-time” and recharge your batteries in a peaceful environment. Infrared therapy can relax you, helping one feel rested and energized in the morning while also making it easier to achieve a full night of quality sleep.

5. Do Not Eat Right Before An Infrared Sauna Session

Since spending time inside an infrared cabin can boost your circulation,increasing the flow of nutrients inside your body, like oxygen, glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids [6&91;. Because of this, your body will delay digestion since it is concentrating on delivering nutrients throughout the body. Using infrared saunas on a full stomach can lead to nausea and prevent your body from properly digesting food. It is for this reason that we suggest to avoid eating right before your infrared sauna session. If you feel that you need to eat, stick to something light, like a salad.

6. Pay Attention To What Your Body Tells You

You can created a schedule to use an infrared sauna, but the first and foremost rule should be to always listen to your body. If you feel exhausted, lightheaded, or otherwise unwell, postpone the session until you feel better or cancel it for the day.

7. Avoid Drinking Alcohol Beforehand

There are many reasons why you should not use infrared saunas while intoxicated. Alcohol puts kidneys and liver into overdrive, placing your body into a dehydrative state. Even having too much alcohol the day before an infrared session can lead to excessive dehydration. Contrary to popular belief, you cannot sweat out a hang-over.

Some people can get sick and vomit inside the cabin, which can ruin the experience for other users. Moreover, when intoxicated, motor skills are impaired which can lead to injuries from falls and slips, as well as cause a potential damage to the in-home infrared sauna.

8. Find Out Facts About Chromotherapy

If your infrared sauna offers a chromotherapy feature, find out all the colors offered and what the health benefits are. For example, yellow is intended to relieve stress, while green can boost your relaxation inside the infrared sauna. Red is good for energy and stimulation, while blue is calming and will soothe strong emotions, like anger.

If you have added color therapy to your JNH Lifestyles’ infrared sauna, try sticking to one color during the entirety of a session; this will engage a more targeted approach to reap the most benefits of what ever color you select. Color therapy is a fantastic method for improving your mental state, helping one to resolve inner struggles and deal with troubling emotions.

9. No Smartphones

One of the primary purposes of a sauna is to unplug from life, so it is best to eliminate the use of smartphones unless it is for playing music/listening to an audio book. Besides, electronics are well-known for malfunctioning and breaking while under the stress of high temperatures, so it is best to avoid having them inside the cabin at all times. For the most part, smartphones serve as a distraction from relaxing and will prevent you from enjoying your infrared sauna's benefits to the fullest.

10. Take A Warm Shower After

After every infrared sauna session, consider taking a warm shower. While it is generally recommended that taking a cold shower is better since it will close up pores and prevent dirt from infiltrating them, taking a hot shower also has its own benefits as well.

After you have eliminated dirt, toxins, and other impurities from your skin, the pores are ready for nourishment. Keeping them open for a little longer can allow your beauty products, like body lotions and creams, to be fully absorbed by your skin. In a way, a warm shower after spending time in the infrared cabin can make your skin healthier and more radiant.

All In All

Infrared saunas in spas or gyms comes with its own set of rules for a reason, which are set in place to provide an enjoyable and hygienic environment for everyone. Some of these rules for public saunas should transfer over to a home sauna setting to provide you and your family with the same results. If you want to know more or have any questions, do not hesitate to contact JNH Lifestyles’ customer service team and get your answers from one of our specialists.

Resources:

[1&91;Tsai SR, and Hamblin M.R. (2017). “Biological effects and medical applications of infrared radiation.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, May 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5505738/.

[2&91; Gale,G.D, et al. (2006). “Infrared therapy for chronic low back pain: A randomized, controlled trial.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2006, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2539004/.

[3&91; Schiffer, F, et al. (2009). “Psychological benefits 2 and 4 weeks after a single treatment with near-infrared light to the forehead: a pilot study of 10 patients with major depression and anxiety.” behavioralandbrainfunctions.biomedcentral.com, BMC, December 2009, https://behavioralandbrainfunctions.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1744-9081-5-46.

[4&91;Pei, Susan, Inamadar, Arun C, et al. (2015). “Light-based therapies in acne treatment.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, May 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4439741/#ref64.

[5&91; Kim, Sungwoon, et al. (2017). “Does treadmill walking with near-infrared light applied to the abdominal area reduce local adiposity and body weight?” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, October 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5684004/.

[6&91;Brunt, V. E, et al. (2016). ”Passive heat therapy improves endothelial function, arterial stiffness and blood pressure in sedentary humans.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, June 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27270841.

Eczema affects over 30 million people in the US alone, regardless of ethnicity, gender, or skin color. There are several types of eczema, each differing in causes and the treatment they may require. Eczema symptoms depend on a person's age, but the most common ones are itchy patches and scaly skin.

Luckily, eczema is not a contagious condition and if you get the symptoms under control, one can live a normal and fulfilled life. Besides eczema creams and other medication, there are other ways to manage this pesky skin disorder. Changing your diet, controlling stress, exercising, and adopting other healthy habits may be helpful. There are also certain types of light therapy, like infrared wavelengths, that have been used in the treatment eczema symptoms [1&91;.

Life With Eczema

Eczema may not be a life-threatening disease, but it can be extremely uncomfortable and affect a person's self-esteem, especially during puberty and teen years. Based on the National Eczema website, around 9.6 million children under 18 suffer from atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema. At that young of an age, when a person is starting to develop on a psychological level, eczema symptoms can affect the way they perceive themselves and their social interactions.

Itching alone can cause additional stress, making it borderline unbearable to a sufferer, which is closely followed by dryness of the skin and pronounced redness. Unfortunately, pain is another of eczema's symptoms that can disrupt sleep, daily activities and altogether normal functioning [2&91;.

Because of these symptoms, eczema can greatly affect the quality of life by disrupting sleep, leading to agitation and social isolation. The latter is especially present since people who suffer from eczema feel embarrassed by their appearance and tend to avoid social interactions [3&91;. While eczema itself is not life-threatening, the reasons you have it may cause other conditions that are extremely serious, like asthma. Also, at sometimes eczema is only a symptom, with other underlying issues leading to autoimmune disease, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes.

What Triggers Eczema Symptoms

Eczema is not one disease, it is a name for several skin conditions, with seven being the most common ones: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, neurodermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, nummular eczema, and stasis dermatitis. They can be caused by different triggers and may affect various areas of the body.

The one that is present in the majority of people is atopic dermatitis. This eczema rash is caused when the immune system reacts to something present inside or outside of the body. It is a long-lasting condition that may improve or worsen over time and is often followed by hay fever and asthma. Contact dermatitis appears when skin touches an irritant or allergen that in turn causes inflammation, hives, and even severe allergic reactions, like swelling and shortness of breath.

Genetics can also be a trigger, like in the case of seborrheic dermatitis, better known as seborrhea. With this form of eczema, flaky patches appear on the skin through a combination of hormones, microorganisms, and genes. Besides allergens, genetics, and irritants, poor circulation in the legs can lead to swelling of the veins, causing skin redness, itching, and aches — a condition known as stasis dermatitis. It mostly appears in the elderly population, with people also calling it venous eczema or gravitational dermatitis.

Available Eczema Treatment

When it comes to treatment, eczema creams can be the most commonly used to apply on the affected skin. This can often be enough to treat eczema rash symptoms, but not to eliminate the cause. There is a variety of creams and ointments that your doctor can prescribe. Typically, these therapy creams include corticosteroids, but they can also have other ingredients intended to affect your immune system and control skin reaction.

Sometimes, medicines against infections can also be included in the treatment, such as an antibiotic cream if you have open cracks or sores. If the infection is severe, you may also have to take oral antibiotics for a while, along with treating the skin with a cream. Patients with more severe cases of eczema rash may need to take oral corticosteroids, but they can have serious side effects if taken for a long time. Newer treatments, like injectable biologics, have been recently approved by the FDA for people with eczema that does not respond to any other therapy for this skin condition.

Besides traditional medication, some alternative treatments may also help, e.g. relaxation, counseling, and light therapy. The latter has commonly involved ultraviolet radiation, but it comes with some drawbacks, such as the increased risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Ultraviolet radiation though, is not the only form of light therapy available; infrared therapy can mitigate eczema symptoms, making one feel more comfortable.

Eczema And Infrared Light Therapy

Infrared for eczema is a non-invasive approach and is not intended to be a replacement for any medication therapy prescribed by a doctor. Spending time within infrared saunas can be a great way to manage your eczema by soothing itchy and dry skin. Since the most common eczema triggers are allergens and irritants, like dust, dirt, pollutants, and certain skin products, it can be ideal to sweat on a daily basis. One of the many infrared therapy benefits is the full body heat it provides, warming you from the inside out, initiating a deep sweat [4&91;.

Another important way to deal with eczema is by relaxing and decreasing stress. It may not be the main cause of a flare-up, but it can make it worse. Infrared saunas, like the Freedom Collection by JNH Lifestyles, have all the properties to make you feel comfortable and calm. They are made of high-quality red cedar wood to connect you with nature and premium speakers that allow you to listen to soothing sounds during an infrared session.

Improving circulation, especially in the case of stasis dermatitis can help to soothe the affected area and slow down symptoms [5&91;. Since the immune system can play a pivotal role in keeping your eczema under control, infrared sauna benefits, like improving your white blood cell count, can prove useful by boosting the immune system [6&91;. In a way, eczema and infrared light therapy can go hand-in-hand since the heat will open up the pores and allow you to moisturize the skin better. This can reduce dryness and decrease the most frustrating symptom — the itching. With a decrease in annoying symptoms, one can sleep better, leading to an increase in overall mood.

In Conclusion

Infrared saunas may not be a cure-all treatment, but if used with prescribed medications and an improved lifestyle, they can definitely help with the time of recovery. Check out the selection of JNH Lifestyles’ personal saunas and find the perfect one for your home.

Resources:

[1&91;Hyun Kyu Kim, et al. (2012). "Clinical study of stonetouch far-infrared device on atopic dermatitis.” koreauniv.pure.elsevier.com, Korea University, Department of Dermatology, October 2012, https://koreauniv.pure.elsevier.com/en/publications/clinical-study-of-stonetouch-far-infrared-device-on-atopic-dermat.

[2&91;Silverberg JI, et al. (2019). "Pain Is a Common and Burdensome Symptom of Atopic Dermatitis in United States Adults.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, November 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31228619.

[3&91;Anderson RT and Rajagopalan R. (2001). ” Effects of allergic dermatosis on health-related quality of life.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2001, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11892052.

[4&91; Genuis, Stephen J, et al. (2010). “Blood, Urine, and Sweat (BUS) Study: Monitoring and Elimination of Bioaccumulated Toxic Elements.” link.springer.com, Springer Nature, Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, November 2010, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00244-010-9611-5.

[5&91; Beever Richard. (2009). “Far-infrared saunas for treatment of cardiovascular risk factors.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, July 2009, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2718593/.

[6&91; Pilch,W, et al. (2013).“Effect of a Single Finnish Sauna Session on White Blood Cell Profile and Cortisol Levels in Athletes and Non-Athletes.” ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, National Center for Biotechnology Information, December 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3916915/.