Collection: Near Infrared Saunas

Near infrared saunas use the short end of the infrared range, the same band used in many red light therapy devices. Near infrared is usually delivered by LED panels and most often appears inside a full spectrum sauna that also includes mid and far infrared, so you get light and infrared heat in one session.

Related: compare full spectrum infrared saunas and far infrared saunas, or read the infrared sauna buying guide.

What is a near infrared sauna?

A near infrared sauna is an infrared sauna that emits near infrared light, the shortest infrared wavelength. Far infrared does most of the heating, while near infrared is absorbed closer to the surface of the skin and adds little warmth on its own. Many cabins pair near infrared LED panels with far infrared heaters so you get light and heat together.

Near infrared, far infrared, and full spectrum

Infrared splits into three bands. Near infrared sits at the short end, mid infrared is between, and far infrared delivers the deep warmth most infrared saunas are known for. A full spectrum sauna blends all three, so a full spectrum cabin is usually the way to get near infrared, while a far infrared sauna focuses on heat.

Near infrared and red light therapy

Near infrared overlaps with red light therapy, sometimes called photobiomodulation, which uses red light around 660 nanometers and near infrared around 850 nanometers. Research on red and near infrared light is still developing, and claims vary in how well they are supported; see our research and studies page. This differs from chromotherapy, which is colored mood lighting. See our saunas with red light therapy for cabins built around it.

What to look for

Check the stated wavelengths and panel coverage so the near infrared light reaches you, then judge it as a sauna with low EMF carbon heaters and quality wood. Compare emissions in our low EMF infrared saunas, see all infrared saunas, and read the infrared sauna buying guide. Restore Suite offers financing.

Explore Related Collections

Still narrowing it down? Compare full spectrum infrared saunas, far infrared saunas, saunas with red light therapy, and red light therapy devices. If you would like a second opinion on size, power, or placement, contact our team and we will help you match a model to your space.

Frequently Asked Questions About Near Infrared Saunas

What is the difference between near infrared and far infrared?

Near infrared is the short wavelength used in many red light devices and is absorbed near the surface of the skin, while far infrared is the long wavelength that does most of the warming for a deep sweat.

Do near infrared saunas use red light therapy?

Often yes. Near infrared overlaps with red light therapy wavelengths, and many cabins combine red and near infrared LED panels with far infrared heat.

Is near infrared the same as a full spectrum sauna?

Not quite. Near infrared is one of three bands; a full spectrum sauna includes near, mid, and far infrared together, the most common way to get near infrared at home.

Is near infrared hotter than far infrared?

Near infrared contributes little to cabin heat. Far infrared does most of the warming in an infrared sauna, which is why near infrared usually appears alongside it in full spectrum cabins.

Do I need eye protection in a near infrared sauna?

Follow the manufacturer's guidance. Avoid staring into near infrared or red LED panels at close range.

How long should a near infrared sauna session be?

Many people use 15 to 30 minutes, the same as a typical infrared session. Start shorter and follow the guidance for your cabin.