Take a look at the science behind the super hot TikTok trend.
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If youre a little wary of the word detox, you might be onto something.
begins to go off.
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Still, plenty of people swear by sweating for everything from increased vitality toglowing skin.
So should you keep scrolling past the vids of folks dripping under red lights?
Or are TikTokers really releasing physical and mental gunk with infrared heat?
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Here’s what science and experts have to say.
What are Infrared Saunas, Anyway?
What makes red light any different from the traditional sauna experience?
For starters,infrared saunas arent nearly as hot as traditional saunas.
Some people find this lower temperature more bearable to sit in for longer stretches.
Heat is also created differently in an infrared sauna.
What is Detoxification (And Why Does It Matter)?
Detoxification is a controversial notion.
Different experts have different definitions of it, and theres not a lot of scientific literature on the concept.
Detoxification can be considered most broadly as processes that enhance the removal of waste products from the body.
This is a natural function, explainsDr.
Katrina Stage, ND, RH, staff physician at Sonoran University in Tempe, AZ.
Its like taking out the trash.
And no studies have looked at the long-term effects of detoxification programs.
Your body’s natural detox system works incredibly well on its own.
in an infrared sauna) may support natural detox pathways.
Do Infrared Saunas Work For Detoxing?
Stage says the body does most of its own detoxing without help.
Sweating is a great way to mobilize toxins in your body.
Many toxins like arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury can all be excreted through sweat.
Taking a longer sweat could allow your body to release more unwelcome substances.
Are Infrared Saunas Safe?
A sweat session in an infrared sauna is safe for most people.
According to theMayo Clinic, no harmful effects have been reported from infrared sauna use.
This includes people with cardiovascular disease and pregnant or breastfeeding people, says Stage.
But the therapy will be safe and beneficial for most people, she says.
If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous, Kelley says its time for a break.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Sauna Session
Ready to take the heat?
Stage says this typically takes 20-40 minutes.
you’ve got the option to also upgrade the sauna experience by exercising beforehand.
After the fact, consider cooling off with a cool shower or cold plunge.
This stimulates circulation, enhances immune response, and supports mood and energy.
Also, be sure to hydrate well.
Still, sweating is one well-established way to speed up the excretion of waste products.
And if a sauna session makes you feel refreshed and rejuvenated, go ahead and get sweaty!
