What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna

When stepping into the gentle warmth of a Transcend Infrared Sauna, it’s essential to consider not just the health benefits, but also what you should wear to enhance your sauna experience. This guide provides practical advice on choosing the right clothing—or choosing none at all—that balances comfort, safety, and hygiene during your infrared sauna sessions.

1. Understanding Infrared Sauna Clothing Basics

Infrared saunas, like those from High Tech Health International, use light to create heat. Unlike traditional saunas, where the air is heated, infrared saunas directly warm your body. This difference influences what might be comfortable and appropriate to wear.

Optimal Clothing Choices for Infrared Saunas:

Going Nude: For many, the best option is wearing nothing at all. Going naked in an infrared sauna maximizes the amount of infrared exposure your body receives and eliminates any barriers between you and the radiant heat, enhancing the detoxification process. Some aren’t comfortable going nude – and may not always be appropriate when inviting guests into your sauna sessions.
Breathable Fabrics: Lightweight, natural fibers like cotton or bamboo are ideal. These materials allow your skin to breathe and absorb sweat efficiently, keeping you comfortable.
Loose Fittings: Tight clothing can restrict blood flow and interfere with the infrared heat reaching your skin. Opt for loose-fitting clothes to enjoy the full benefits of the heat.

For those new to infrared saunas, here are some specific clothing recommendations:

Cotton T-shirts and Shorts: Simple cotton clothing that covers your skin lightly can enhance your comfort without absorbing too much heat.
Swimwear: Bikinis or swim trunks are excellent choices as they provide coverage while allowing ample skin exposure for the infrared rays to penetrate. However, avoid swimsuits made of synthetic materials.

2. What to Avoid Wearing in an Infrared Sauna

To ensure safety and hygiene, some clothing should be avoided:

Synthetic Fabrics: Materials like polyester, nylon, or spandex may react or release unpleasant odors when exposed to infrared heat, potentially causing skin irritation or general discomfort.
Jewelry and Accessories: Metal objects can heat up during a sauna session and may cause discomfort or irritation. It’s best to remove all jewelry before entering.
Dirty Clothes: Always wear clean clothes in the sauna. Dirty clothing can harbor bacteria that proliferate with heat and moisture, which could lead to skin irritations or infections.
Lotions and Oils: Avoid wearing lotions, oils, or perfumes before entering an infrared sauna. These products can clog pores, preventing sweat and impurities from escaping during your sauna session, and may also react to heat by causing skin irritation or discomfort.

3. What about my feet? Footwear suggestions for infrared saunas.

Footwear in an infrared sauna should generally be avoided to keep the area clean and maintain the effectiveness of the heat. If necessary, opt for:

Slippers or Flip-flops: Choose footwear that is easy to clean and made from heat-resistant materials.
Shower Shoes or Crocs: Loose fitting and comfortable – keep them clean!

4. Additional Tips for Sauna Apparel

Bring a Towel: Whether you choose to wear clothes or go nude, always have a towel to sit on or wrap around you. Multiple towels – for the floor, on the bench – and another for your sweat are ideal. This not only adds a layer of hygiene but can also help manage your comfort during your session.
Hydration is Key: Dressing appropriately also means preparing for the heat in terms of hydration. Drink plenty of water before, during and after your sauna session.

5. Sauna Hats

One unique and beneficial accessory often overlooked by many sauna users is the sauna hat. Sauna hats, made typically from wool or felt, are not just a cultural accessory but serve several practical functions in enhancing your sauna experience.

Why Wear a Sauna Hat?

Temperature Regulation: Sauna hats help regulate your body temperature. By insulating your head, which is particularly sensitive to heat, they slow down the rate at which your body heats up, allowing you to stay comfortable for longer periods inside the sauna.
Enhanced Comfort: Wearing a sauna hat can prevent dizziness and help mitigate the intensity of the heat on your head and ears, making your sauna session more enjoyable.

Adding a sauna hat to your sauna attire not only increases your comfort but also extends the duration you can safely enjoy the healing warmth of a Transcend Infrared Sauna.

Now you’re ready for your sauna session!

Choosing what to wear in an infrared sauna, including the option to wear nothing at all, is crucial for maximizing the health benefits while ensuring comfort and safety. By following these guidelines, users of High Tech Health International’s Transcend Infrared Saunas can look forward to a soothing, therapeutic experience that is both effective and enjoyable. Remember, the right attire—or lack thereof—can significantly enhance your sauna session, making it a deeply personal and rejuvenating journey.

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