17+ Infrared Sauna Statistics, Facts, Trends Worldwide 2025

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by Nordvik Nordic renewal
infrared sauna statistics - top 6 infrared sauna stats

Curious why people are stepping into glowing infrared boxes and calling it wellness? It might sound like a wellness trend gone too far, but infrared saunas are quietly becoming a staple in many health routines.

The reason is simple: the science is catching up with the hype. So, we have pulled together the most telling infrared sauna statistics to show why this low-heat, high-sweat experience could be one of the easiest ways to feel better, sleep deeper, and recover faster.

Top 6 Infrared Sauna Statistics (Editor’s Picks)

We’ve gathered the 6 most compelling infrared sauna statistics you’ll definitely want to see.

1

85% of chronic heart failure patients saw symptom relief after 2 weeks of daily infrared sauna use

2

Infrared sauna helped 77% of chronic pain patients get back to work

3

Infrared sauna sessions lowered stress hormone levels by nearly 50%

4

Infrared sauna use boosts sleep score by over 50% in people with chronic pain

5

Oxidative stress levels can drop by nearly 40% after infrared sauna therapy

6

72% of users noticed clearer, healthier skin after infrared sauna sessions

Infrared Sauna Health Benefits Statistics

85% of chronic heart failure patients saw symptom relief after 2 weeks of daily infrared sauna use (ScienceDirect)

infrared sauna statistics - 85 percent saw symptom relief after sauna use

In a small clinical study, 17 out of 20 patients with chronic heart failure showed measurable health improvements after using a 60°C infrared sauna daily for two weeks. The results suggest that regular heat therapy may support better outcomes in patients with heart conditions.

Infrared sauna at 60°C induces cardiovascular effects equivalent to moderate-paced walking

A short session in a 60°C sauna increases heart rate and blood flow much like a slow jog or brisk walk. It’s a low-effort way to support heart health without putting stress on joints.

Infrared sauna helped 77% of chronic pain patients get back to work (Creative Energy)

infrared sauna statistics - 77 percent with pain returned to work using sauna

People with chronic pain who used infrared sauna therapy were more likely to return to work than those who didn’t receive the treatment. The findings point to sauna use as a potential tool for pain recovery.

Far-infrared rays heat the body by penetrating skin at 3–100 μm wavelengths (NLM)

Unlike regular heat, far-infrared radiation reaches deeper into the skin to warm tissues directly. This targeted heating can improve circulation and help muscles relax without heating the surrounding air.

Infrared sauna sessions lowered stress hormone levels by nearly 50% (Get Fitt)

infrared sauna statistics - sauna cut stress hormones by nearly 50 percent

Plasma epinephrine, which spikes during stress, dropped from an average of 40 to 21 pg/mL after sauna treatment. The results show that infrared heat therapy may have a calming effect on the body’s stress response.

20-minute infrared sauna sessions helped athletes bounce back faster after workouts

Athletes who used a 43–50°C sauna for 20 minutes after training showed smaller drops in jump power and reported less soreness the next day. The sauna likely eased muscle fatigue and supported quicker recovery.

Infrared sauna use boosts sleep score by over 50% in people with chronic pain

infrared sauna statistics - sauna raised sleep scores by over 50 percent

Chronic pain patients experienced a jump in average sleep scores from 3.5 to 5.4 after consistent sauna therapy. The heat may relax muscles and ease discomfort, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.

New users should limit infrared sauna use to 5–10 minutes at 110°F (Cleveland Clinic)

A gentle introduction to sauna therapy ensures comfort and safety during early sessions. As tolerance improves, users can slowly increase both time and temperature for deeper effects.

Oxidative stress levels dropped by nearly 40% after infrared sauna therapy (ResearchGate)

infrared sauna statistics - sauna dropped oxidative stress by 40 percent

Measured through urinary markers, levels fell from 380±101 to 230±67 pg/mg creatinine following treatment. The results point to the sauna’s potential to support overall cell health and recovery.

80% of infrared sauna heat is absorbed directly by the body (Cognitive Market Research)

Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air first, infrared saunas use panels that emit electromagnetic radiation to warm the body directly. This allows for a deeper, more efficient heat with lower air temperatures.

Infrared Sauna Statistics About Skin Health 

72% of users report clearer, healthier-looking skin after infrared sauna use (Home In Depth)

infrared sauna statistics - 72 percent saw clearer skin after sauna use

Most users say regular infrared sauna sessions improved their skin’s appearance, with benefits like reduced blemishes and a more even tone. The deep heat may help clear pores and boost circulation to the skin.

Infrared sauna use led to a 40–60% drop in acne lesions within 4–12 weeks

Participants who used infrared saunas consistently over several weeks saw fewer breakouts and clearer skin. The deep heat may help reduce inflammation and clear out clogged pores.

83.5% of infrared sauna users say they sleep better (Awesome Health Club)

infrared sauna statistics - 83.5 percent sleep better with sauna use

In a recent survey, 83.5% of people using infrared saunas said their sleep got better. The deep heat may help lower stress levels and support more restful nights.

Infrared Sauna Market Size & Trends Statistics

The global infrared sauna market is valued at $1.89 billion in 2025 (Coherent Market Insights)

infrared sauna statistics - infrared sauna market hit 1.89 billion in 2025

Infrared saunas have grown in popularity, with the global market reaching $1.89 billion in 2025. Rising interest in wellness and recovery tools continues to drive demand.

The global infrared sauna market is projected to hit $3.58 billion by 2032

infrared sauna statistics - infrared sauna market size projection

Infrared saunas are gaining traction beyond luxury spas, increasingly becoming part of personal wellness routines. This projection reflects the broader shift toward self-care and preventative health investments.

The infrared sauna heaters market stands at $163 million in 2025

Component-level infrared sauna statistics show heater sales surging from $150 million in 2024, driven by new installations and equipment upgrades across residential and commercial sectors.

The far infrared sauna segment dominates with $439.4 million in 2025 (Global Growth Insights)

infrared sauna statistics - far infrared led with 439 million in 2025

Far infrared technology leads infrared sauna statistics, growing from $408.63 million in 2024 at 7.53% CAGR, significantly outpacing general market expansion.

The global far infrared sauna market is projected to reach $785.41 million by 2033 (Global Growth Insights)

Interest in far infrared saunas continues to rise, especially for personal wellness and home spa use. This projected growth reflects steady demand for lower-heat sauna options that support relaxation, skin health, and circulation.

Beginner's Guide To Infrared Sauna Use

According to wellness experts and clinical research, you should always start with shorter sessions at lower temperatures when beginning infrared sauna therapy. This gradual approach follows proven safety protocols and maximizes long-term benefits by:

  • Allowing your body to adapt to deep-tissue heating
  • Preventing overheating and discomfort during early sessions
  • Building heat tolerance for more effective future sessions
  • Ensuring you experience the full range of cardiovascular and recovery benefits

Here’s how to go about it:

Step 1: Start Low and Slow

Begin with 5-10 minutes at 110°F (43°C). Your body needs time to adapt to infrared heat, which penetrates deeper than traditional saunas.

Step 2: Hydrate Before and After

Drink 16-20 oz of water before your session and replenish fluids immediately afterward. Infrared saunas promote deep sweating even at lower temperatures.

Step 3: Listen to Your Body

Exit immediately if you feel dizzy, nauseous, or uncomfortable. It's normal to sweat less during your first few sessions as your body adjusts.

Step 4: Build Gradually

After 1-2 weeks, slowly increase to 15-20 minutes at 120-140°F (49-60°C). Advanced users eventually reach 20+ minute sessions at higher temperatures.

Step 5: Time It Right

Schedule sessions 2-3 hours before bedtime for better sleep, or use morning sessions for an energy boost. Avoid eating large meals 1-2 hours before use.

Pro Tip: Consistency beats intensity. Regular 10-minute sessions will deliver better results than occasional longer sessions.

Conclusion

Infrared sauna statistics show that this method is transforming how we approach recovery and health. This isn't just relaxation—it's cellular regeneration that improves sleep quality by 50%, reduces chronic pain, and delivers cardiovascular conditioning while you simply sit and breathe. Start slowly and let deep-tissue healing begin.

Nordvik brings this therapeutic breakthrough to your home with uncompromising quality. Whether you're creating a backyard wellness retreat with our outdoor saunas or maximizing limited space with our compact saunas, every design delivers precise temperature control and maximum therapeutic benefit. 

Discover our collection today and invest in technology that puts genuine wellness within reach.

FAQs

What should I wear in an infrared sauna?

Wear minimal, loose-fitting clothing or go nude. Cotton towels work well for sitting on. Avoid synthetic fabrics, jewelry, or anything that might heat up and cause burns.

How often can I use an infrared sauna safely?

Most people can use infrared saunas 3-7 times per week once acclimated. Daily use is generally safe for healthy individuals, but start with 2-3 sessions per week initially.

Are there any side effects I should watch for?

Common mild effects include temporary dizziness, nausea, or headache from dehydration. Serious concerns include overheating, fainting, or burns from hot surfaces.

What's the difference between near, mid, and far infrared?

Near infrared (0.7-1.4 μm) penetrates the skin surface, mid infrared (1.4-3 μm) reaches deeper tissues, and far infrared (3-100 μm) provides the deepest penetration for therapeutic benefits.