Find the right infrared sauna to suit your unique needs & support your long term health

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At Hyper Wellbeing, we take pride in offering our customers a unique advantage: the availability of both near infrared (NIR) and far infrared (FIR) saunas. While many competitors only provide far infrared saunas, we believe in providing a comprehensive wellness experience.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the difference between near and far infrared heat, highlighting the distinct benefits they offer. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed choice and discover the sauna that best suits your needs.

The main difference between far infrared (FIR) and near infrared (NIR) heat lies in their respective wavelengths and the way they interact with the body.

What is Near Infrared Heat?

Near infrared heat is a type of energy that comes from light waves and are visible to the human eye, unlike far infrared heat. Near infrared heat utilises shorter wavelengths ranging from 0.7 to 3 microns. These types of light waves are naturally occurring in sun light and in the glowing red heat you see radiating from a camp fire. It directly heats your body (rather than just the air around you) and is able to penetrate 15 to 20cm into your body — reaching muscles, tissues and organs.

When near infrared light waves reach our skin, they interact with our cells in a special way. Our cells have tiny structures called mitochondria, which act like little powerhouses. These mitochondria can use the energy from near infrared light to produce more energy for our cells to function properly.

When our cells have more energy, they can work better and perform their tasks more efficiently. This can have a positive impact on various processes in our body, like healing damaged tissues, boosting our immune system, and improving the overall health and function of our cells.

It is the type of heat that we perceive as radiant heat when we stand close to a heat source like a fire. It provides localised heating and can be beneficial for superficial skin conditions, wound healing, and collagen production. Near infrared light therapy is also used for various purposes, including skin rejuvenation and improving cellular function.

What are the Benefits of Near Infrared Heat?

Near Vs Far Infrared Saunas

Skin Health

Near infrared heat can improve the health and appearance of the skin. It promotes collagen production, which helps to maintain the skin’s elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and enhance overall skin tone and texture. It can also aid in the healing of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Pain Relief

Near infrared heat has shown promising results in providing relief from muscle and joint pain. It can help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and increase blood flow to affected areas, potentially alleviating discomfort and promoting healing.

Cellular Regeneration

Near infrared heat can stimulate cellular activity and metabolism, leading to enhanced cellular function and regeneration. This can contribute to improved energy levels, cellular repair, and overall vitality.

Detoxification

Near infrared heat can support the body’s natural detoxification process. It helps increase circulation and sweating, which aids in the removal of toxins, heavy metals, and other impurities from the body.

Wound Healing

Near infrared heat has been used in clinical settings to promote wound healing. It can accelerate tissue repair, improve circulation to the affected area, and enhance the formation of new blood vessels, facilitating the healing process.

Immune System Support

The cellular benefits and detoxification effects of near infrared heat can potentially support immune function. By enhancing cellular activity and removing toxins, it may contribute to a stronger immune system response.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction

Near infrared heat creates a soothing and relaxing experience, helping to reduce stress levels. It can provide a calming effect on both the mind and body, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.

What Is Far Infrared Heat?

Far infrared heat boasts longer wavelengths ranging from 6 to 12 microns, enabling it to penetrate deep into the body. This form of heat is also present in sunlight — approximately 55%.

Far infrared heat is known for its ability to generate a gentle and comfortable heat that is often described as warming from within. It is commonly associated with various health benefits such as improved circulation, pain relief, relaxation, and detoxification.

What are the Benefits of Far Infrared Heat?

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Improved Circulation

Far infrared heat promotes the expansion of blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and circulation throughout the body. This increased circulation can support better nutrient and oxygen delivery to tissues, aiding in overall health and vitality.

Pain Relief

It helps relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort associated with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sports injuries.

Detoxification

Far infrared heat stimulates sweating and can assist in the removal of toxins, heavy metals, and other impurities from the body. Sweating is a natural process that helps eliminate waste products, promoting detoxification and supporting a healthier system.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction

Far infrared heat creates a soothing and calming experience, helping to reduce stress levels. It can provide a gentle warmth that relaxes the body and mind, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.

Skin Health

Far infrared heat can have positive effects on the skin. It helps improve blood flow to the skin, promoting a healthy complexion.

Immune System Support

Some research suggests that far infrared heat may have a positive impact on immune function. By promoting circulation, relaxation, and detoxification, it can potentially support a stronger immune response.

Improved Sleep

Far infrared heat has been reported to contribute to better sleep quality. The relaxation and soothing effects can help create an environment conducive to restful and rejuvenating sleep.

What Makes Far and Near Infrared Heat Different?

Near and far infrared heat differ primarily in terms of their wavelength, depth of penetration, and the effects they have on the body.

Wavelength

Near infrared heat has a shorter wavelength, ranging from 700 to 1200 nanometers, whereas far infrared heat has a longer wavelength, typically ranging from 3000 to 10,000 nanometers.

Penetration

Near infrared heat penetrates more deeply into the body than far infrared heat. Near infrared has the ability to penetrate deeper into tissues, muscles, and even organs. It can provide a more profound heating effect on the body.

Sensation

Near infrared heat is often experienced as a radiant, comforting heat, just like feeling the direct warmth felt from a campfire. Far infrared heat, heats the air around you, and is experienced as a dry and gentle heat.

Applications

Near infrared heat is commonly used in various cosmetic and healing devices, including photobiomodulation and low-level light therapy (LLLT). It has shown potential benefits for skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and pain relief. Far infrared heat is commonly utilised in saunas and heat therapy treatments. It is known for its ability to improve circulation, relax muscles, promote detoxification, and provide overall relaxation and stress relief.

Understanding the differences between near and far infrared heat allows individuals to choose the appropriate therapy or treatment based on their specific needs and desired outcomes.

Near Vs. Far Infrared Heat: Which Sauna Is Right For You?

Near infrared saunas boast many key selling points, as they are extremely effective and easy to use.

Localised Heating

Near infrared heat primarily targets the skin, making it ideal for addressing various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can promote collagen production, accelerate wound healing, and aid in skin rejuvenation.

Cellular Stimulation

Near infrared light therapy may enhance cellular function, promoting cellular metabolism and rejuvenation. This can have positive effects on energy levels, vitality, and overall well-being.

Quick Warm-up Time

Near infrared saunas provide rapid and efficient heating. They require minimal warm-up time, allowing you to experience the benefits sooner as they directly target your body, unlike far infrared that takes 10 to 20 minutes to heat the air.

Low Operating Temperature

Far infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures compared to traditional saunas. This lower temperature makes it more comfortable for individuals to enjoy longer sauna sessions.

Energy Efficiency

Far infrared saunas are energy-efficient and consume less electricity compared to traditional saunas. They are designed to maximise the heat output while minimising energy usage, resulting in cost-effective operation.

Low Maintenance

Far infrared saunas require minimal maintenance. They typically have durable construction and easy-to-clean surfaces, making it convenient for users to keep their sauna clean and well-maintained.

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Our Near & Far Infrared Sauna Models Delivered Australia Wide

At Hyper Wellbeing, we go beyond conventional saunas by offering both near infrared and far infrared options. While near infrared saunas excel in localised healing and deep tissue penetration, far infrared saunas can provide comprehensive detoxification benefits. By providing the best of both worlds, we empower you to tailor your sauna experience to your specific wellness goals.

Whether you’re seeking radiant skin, cellular rejuvenation, pain relief, detoxification, or simply a peaceful oasis, our NIR and FIR saunas offer the versatility and efficacy to meet your needs. Embrace the transformative power of infrared heat and embark on a journey toward enhanced well-being with Hyper Wellbeing.

We proudly offer two options for our 2-person infrared sauna: The Harmony and the Harmony Premium. If you’re looking for the ultimate sauna experience, we highly recommend the Harmony Premium model. It combines the best of both worlds by incorporating pure Near and Far infrared heaters, elevating the benefits beyond that of a standard sauna.

Our saunas are crafted using top-quality materials such as Canadian Hemlock timber and heat-resistant tempered glass, ensuring durability and longevity.

Immerse yourself in your favourite music through the Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 stereo system. Enjoy the ambient lighting provided by internal lights while benefiting from the advanced Carbon Nano heaters, known for their effectiveness and efficiency.

Rest assured, our saunas are designed with Low EMF (electromagnetic field) technology to prioritise your safety. Additionally, the built-in ioniser and O3 Generator contribute to a clean and refreshing environment.

Relax, rejuvenate, and embrace the numerous advantages that await you within the comforting warmth of our exceptional saunas.

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References

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Kang MH, Yu HY, Kim GT, Lim JE, Jang S, Park TS, Park JK. Near-infrared-emitting nanoparticles activate collagen synthesis via TGFβ signaling. Sci Rep. 2020 Aug 6;10(1):13309. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-70415-1. PMID: 32764617; PMCID: PMC7410846.

Martignago CCS, Tim CR, Assis L, Da Silva VR, Santos ECBD, Vieira FN, Parizotto NA, Liebano RE. Effects of red and near-infrared LED light therapy on full-thickness skin graft in rats. Lasers Med Sci. 2020 Feb;35(1):157-164. doi: 10.1007/s10103-019-02812-6. Epub 2019 Jun 5. PMID: 31168678.

Pilch W, Szarek M, Olga CL, Anna P, Żychowska M, Ewa SK, Andraščíková Š, Pałka T. The effects of a single and a series of Finnish sauna sessions on the immune response and HSP-70 levels in trained and untrained men. Int J Hyperthermia. 2023;40(1):2179672. doi: 10.1080/02656736.2023.2179672. PMID: 36813265.

Walski T, Dąbrowska K, Drohomirecka A, Jędruchniewicz N, Trochanowska-Pauk N, Witkiewicz W, Komorowska M. The effect of red-to-near-infrared (R/NIR) irradiation on inflammatory processes. Int J Radiat Biol. 2019 Sep;95(9):1326-1336. doi: 10.1080/09553002.2019.1625464. Epub 2019 Aug 7. PMID: 31170016.

Sears ME, Kerr KJ, Bray RI. Arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in sweat: a systematic review. J Environ Public Health. 2012;2012:184745. doi: 10.1155/2012/184745. Epub 2012 Feb 22. PMID: 22505948; PMCID: PMC3312275.

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