The potential health risks of using an infrared sauna include dehydration, overheating, and effects on certain medical conditions and implants. Proper precautions and consultation with a doctor can help mitigate these risks. 

Immediate risks 

  • Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance: Intense sweating is the goal of a sauna session, but it can lead to significant fluid and mineral loss. Failing to properly hydrate before, during, and after can cause symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.

  • Overheating and heat exhaustion: Spending too long in a hot environment can raise your core body temperature to unsafe levels. This can cause nausea, weakness, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat. In extreme cases, it could lead to heatstroke.

  • Low blood pressure: The heat from the sauna causes your blood vessels to expand, which can lower your blood pressure. For people who already have low blood pressure (hypotension), this can cause lightheadedness or fainting when standing up too quickly after a session.

  • Skin sensitivity and irritation: While often used for skin health, the deep-penetrating, dry heat from infrared saunas can cause irritation, dryness, or redness for some individuals. Those with skin conditions like eczema or rosacea may experience flare-ups.

  • Burns: Though rare, burns are possible from direct or prolonged contact with the heating panels inside the sauna. The risk of burns is higher with cheaper models or sauna blankets that may malfunction. 

Considerations for specific health conditions 

Certain conditions and medications can increase the risk of using an infrared sauna. You should consult a healthcare provider before use if you have any of the following: 

  • Pregnancy: The increased core body temperature can potentially affect fetal development, and most experts advise pregnant individuals to avoid saunas.

  • Cardiovascular conditions: People with high or low blood pressure, heart disease, or other cardiovascular issues should be cautious, as the heat places extra strain on the heart.

  • Kidney disease: Excessive sweating can disrupt electrolyte balance, which can be particularly risky for those with kidney problems.

  • Medical implants:

    • Silicone: Implants, such as breast or ear replacements, can absorb infrared energy and may be warmed by the heat. This can cause swelling or a burning sensation, though they are designed to withstand high temperatures.

    • Pacemakers and defibrillators: These devices can be sensitive to heat and the electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by infrared saunas.

    • Metal pins or artificial joints: Metal implants generally reflect far-infrared waves and are not a major risk, but use should be discontinued if pain occurs.

  • Acute injuries and infections: Using a sauna with a recent joint injury or enclosed infection is not recommended.

  • Medications: Some drugs, particularly diuretics, beta-blockers, and antihistamines, can affect your body's ability to regulate heat and fluids. 

Long-term and other concerns 

  • Electromagnetic Fields (EMF): Infrared saunas use electricity and thus emit EMFs. While infrared radiation is a non-ionizing and generally harmless form of radiation, some older or poorly designed models may emit higher EMFs. Most modern saunas, however, are specifically designed to minimize EMF exposure.

  • Eye health: Near-infrared radiation can potentially pose a risk to eye health, with long-term, high-intensity exposure possibly contributing to cataracts. Keeping your eyes closed or wearing protective eyewear is recommended if your sauna has strong near-infrared emitters.

  • Skin aging: High-intensity near-infrared exposure has been linked to accelerated skin aging and collagen breakdown in some studies, but these effects are not typically seen with the lower-intensity exposure of a standard infrared sauna. 

How to use an infrared sauna safely 

  • Consult a doctor: Discuss your health history with a healthcare provider before beginning to use an infrared sauna, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or medical implants.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your session. Consider an electrolyte drink to replenish lost minerals.

  • Limit your sessions: Start with short sessions of 10–15 minutes and limit your frequency to 3–4 times per week. Never exceed 30 minutes in a single session.

  • Listen to your body: Exit the sauna immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous.

  • Avoid alcohol: Do not consume alcohol before or during a session, as it increases the risk of dehydration.