What to Wear in an Infrared Sauna: A Simple Guide
Key Takeaways:
Minimal Clothing is Best: Wearing minimal clothing or simply a towel maximizes infrared light absorption and enhances detoxification.
Avoid Synthetics: Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon can block infrared light and trap heat, reducing the effectiveness of the sauna.
Breathable Fabrics: Choose loose-fitting cotton clothing or lightweight towels to allow for comfortable sweating and heat dissipation.
Post-Sauna Comfort: Wear loose, breathable clothing after your session to allow your body to cool down naturally.
Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your session to stay hydrated and support detoxification.
Using an infrared sauna is an excellent way to relax, detoxify, and rejuvenate your body, but what you wear during your session can make a big difference in how effective and comfortable your experience is.
Unlike traditional steam saunas, an infrared sauna works by using infrared light therapy to heat the body directly, meaning your clothing choices impact how well the infrared light is absorbed.
So, what’s the best thing to wear in a red-light sauna? In this guide, we’ll break down the best sauna attire, what to avoid, and how to maximize your infrared sauna benefits with the right clothing choices.
Why Does Clothing Matter in an Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna is different from a regular sauna because it uses infrared light to penetrate the body’s tissues rather than heating the surrounding air. This deep heat absorption is key to the many infrared sauna benefits, including detoxification, improved circulation, and muscle relaxation.
How Clothing Affects Infrared Therapy
• Direct skin exposure maximizes infrared light absorption, making the session more effective.
• Heavy or synthetic fabrics can block infrared light, reducing the detoxification and relaxation benefits.
• Loose, breathable clothing helps regulate temperature and sweat absorption, keeping you comfortable.
By choosing the right infrared sauna attire, you’ll ensure that your body fully benefits from the infrared light therapy.
Best Clothing to Wear in an Infrared Sauna
If you want to get the most out of your infrared sauna session, the best choice is minimal clothing or breathable, natural fabrics that allow infrared light to reach your skin directly.
Recommended Sauna Attire
A Towel (Best Option for Maximum Infrared Therapy)
• The ideal sauna attire is simply a towel, wrapped around your body.
• Allows maximum exposure to infrared light while absorbing sweat.
• Provides a barrier between your body and the sauna bench for hygiene.
Loose Cotton Shorts & a Tank Top or Sports Bra
• If you prefer more coverage, choose light, breathable cotton clothing.
• Helps wick away sweat while still allowing infrared light penetration.
• Avoid tight, heavy, or synthetic materials that can trap heat.
A Lightweight Bathrobe (For Post-Sauna Use)
• Helps you stay warm and comfortable after your session.
• Absorbs sweat without overheating your body post-sauna.
By wearing minimal, breathable clothing, you enhance the effectiveness of your infrared therapy session and experience greater relaxation and detoxification benefits.
What NOT to Wear in an Infrared Sauna
Just as important as knowing what to wear is understanding what to avoid in an infrared sauna. Wearing the wrong materials can reduce the effectiveness of red light sauna therapy and even make your session uncomfortable.
Clothing to Avoid in an Infrared Sauna
Synthetic or Tight Clothing (Polyester, Nylon, Spandex, etc.)
• These materials can block infrared light absorption, reducing the infrared sauna benefits.
• They trap heat, leading to overheating and discomfort.
Heavy Workout Gear or Sweatpants
• Designed to retain heat, which may cause excessive sweating and discomfort.
• Can make it harder for infrared therapy to penetrate the skin.
Jewelry & Metal Accessories
• Metal objects can heat up quickly in an infrared sauna, causing burns or discomfort.
• Rings, necklaces, and watches should be removed before entering.
Shoes or Socks
• Keeping feet bare allows for better heat regulation.
• Wearing shoes can trap sweat and bacteria, making the session less hygienic.
By avoiding synthetic fabrics, excessive clothing, and accessories, you allow infrared light therapy to work effectively while keeping your body comfortable.
Additional Tips for a Comfortable Infrared Sauna Session
Beyond clothing, there are a few additional steps you can take to ensure a smooth and enjoyable sauna experience.
Best Practices for Your Sauna Session
Bring a Second Towel: One for sitting on and one for wiping sweat.
Hydrate Before & After: Drinking water helps prevent dehydration and supports detoxification.
Keep Clothing Loose & Comfortable: If you wear anything, make sure it’s light and breathable.
Avoid Lotions & Oils Beforehand: These can clog pores and make sweating less effective.
Allow Your Body to Cool Down Slowly: After your session, wear a light bathrobe or loose clothing to transition back to normal temperature.
By following these simple tips, you can make the most of your red light sauna experience while staying comfortable and maximizing your infrared sauna benefits.
Post-Sauna Clothing: What to Wear After Your Infrared Therapy Session
After an infrared sauna session, your body continues to sweat and cool down for some time. Choosing the right post-sauna attire ensures that you stay comfortable and allow your body to regulate its temperature properly.
Best Clothing to Wear After an Infrared Sauna
• Loose, breathable cotton clothing: Helps absorb sweat and prevent overheating.
• A lightweight bathrobe or towel wrap: Ideal for continuing the relaxation process.
• Open-toe sandals or breathable footwear: Allows heat to escape and prevents sweating buildup.
Clothing to Avoid After a Sauna
Tight clothing that traps sweat: Can cause discomfort and irritation.
Heavy layers: Prevents the body from cooling down naturally.
Synthetic fabrics: Can hold onto moisture, leading to discomfort.
By wearing comfortable, sweat-friendly attire post-sauna, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to enjoy the rest of your day.
Dressing Smart for Infrared Sauna Therapy
The best infrared sauna experience comes down to wearing the right clothing (or minimal clothing), avoiding synthetic fabrics, and staying comfortable.
By choosing light, breathable materials like cotton or simply using a towel, you allow infrared light to penetrate the body effectively, leading to a more powerful detox and relaxation experience.
Experience the Best in Infrared Therapy at PauseStudio!
At PauseStudio, we provide state-of-the-art infrared sauna sessions designed for maximum comfort and effectiveness. Whether you’re looking for muscle recovery, stress relief, or skin benefits, our red light sauna therapy offers a customized wellness experience that fits your needs.
Ready to elevate your sauna routine? Book your infrared sauna appointment at PauseStudio today and enjoy the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation!