Is Infrared Sauna Bad for Your Hair? Here's What You Need to Know
Key Takeaways
- Infrared saunas employ a milder form of heat that penetrates the body deeper than other types of saunas. This makes for a comfortable, pleasant experience with the reduced chance of overheating or dehydration.
- Infrared heat doesn’t put your hair or scalp at risk of sun damage from harmful UV rays. That’s what makes it a safer alternative to sun exposure, with the same wellness benefits!
- Frequent sauna sessions can help increase blood flow to the scalp, potentially promoting hair growth and improving scalp health.
- As a result, high heat may lead to moisture loss and even protein damage of the hair. This risk is particularly acute for anyone with dry, curly or color-treated hair—even from an infrared sauna!
- Using hydrating hair products, protective hairstyles, and spending less time in the sauna can all prevent damage and keep your hair healthy.
- Regular post-sauna care—like deep conditioning and gentle cleansing—can restore moisture and keep hair strong, supporting a balanced approach to sauna use in the U.S. climate.
There’s no evidence that infrared saunas are bad for your hair. Repeated heat exposure can make hair dry or frizzy.
Most salons and wellness centers across the U.S. Operate infrared saunas at temperatures between 110°F and 140°F. This is less than traditional saunas, though it’s still hot enough to damage hair if it’s unprotected.
Individuals with color-treated or delicate hair will likely experience increased dryness and breakage with regular sauna use. Sweat and heat can deplete your scalp’s natural oils, leaving strands dry and coarse.
Wearing a towel or hair cover can prevent or minimize these effects. Later in this post, learn more about how infrared heat works and how to protect your hair.
What Makes Infrared Heat Different?
Infrared saunas are different than traditional steam or dry saunas because of how they work. That unique heat they produce has a notable effect on your body, helping everything from your skin to your hair. Here’s what makes infrared heat different.
Understanding infrared's gentle warmth
Infrared heat inverts this logic, refusing to roast the entire room in extreme heat. Rather, it heats you directly, penetrating your body and heating you from the inside out. This allows the space to remain at lower temperatures, usually around 113 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Individuals experience a comforting, even warmth without the uncomfortable hot air or humidity. You can spend extended time—often 30-40 minutes, with reduced risk of fainting or dehydration. This soothing warmth not only promotes relaxation of your muscles, but it relieves stress and tension.
Some users even experience increased circulation to the scalp, which can promote hair growth. Additionally, since infrared doesn’t dry the air out as much, your skin and hair won’t lose as much moisture to the dry air.
Infrared vs. old-school saunas
With traditional saunas, the air is heated, creating a hot and often humid environment. It takes longer for your body to warm up, and the heat can be more abrasive. Infrared saunas use special panels to send out infrared light that warms your body fast without raising the room’s humidity.
This allows you to start sweating faster, which many claim helps you detox at a deeper level. People who suffer from joint pain or chronic aches usually feel that infrared’s more focused heat provides genuine relief.
Infrared wavelengths vs. sun damage
So unlike sunlight, infrared saunas do not emit UV radiation. That way, you gain all the beneficial effects of the sun’s warmth without the risk of sunburn or the skin damage associated with UV exposure.
In fact, far-infrared wavelengths have been studied extensively for their benefits to skin health. They may help improve skin tone, boost healing, and make skin feel softer—all without the risks tied to too much sun.
Infrared Sauna's Direct Hair Effects
Infrared sauna’s direct hair effects Clearly, infrared saunas have a profound influence on our hair – both positive and negative. They operate through simply increasing your body temperature and increasing your blood circulation. The heat and sweat can be damaging or stressing to hair strands.
In Los Angeles, one of the driest climates in the United States, these benefits can be more pronounced. Where some people experience more shine or growth, others may find their hair becomes dry or brittle following sauna use.
1. The dehydration dilemma for strands
Infrared heat sucks the hydration right out of hair. Once you step out of a sauna, your hair may seem dry to the touch, appear lackluster, or break easier. Dry scalp is a frequent complaint, and natural oils are depleted.
The solution? Drink water before and after using the sauna. Consider adding leave-in conditioner or hair oil to your routine. Avoid shampooing as soon as you step out of the sauna, as this washes out extra oils and leaves hair even drier.
2. Heat's toll on hair protein
It’s noted that heat exceeding 140 degrees can decompose the protein that provides hair its structure. At 200 degrees, hair structure breaks down quickly. That could translate to increased split ends and breakage.
Applying a heat protectant and deep-conditioning weekly can help prevent damage and build strength.
3. Scalp benefits: A circulation boost?
Infrared saunas assist in pumping additional blood to the scalp. This can translate to a greater availability of hair-nourishing nutrients for hair follicles, potentially enhancing hair growth and scalp health.
Taking care of your scalp is essential to maintaining thick, healthy hair.
4. Hair types needing extra care
Curly or fine hair types are more easily damaged. While straight or thick hair may be more resilient to heat, it is equally important to take precautions.
Customize your regimen—stick with milder formulas and reduce the use of heat on delicate strands.
5. What research reveals about hair
Research indicates that while heat improves hair growth, it leads to increased shedding and dryness. The risks increase if you’re doing intense, high-heat sessions multiple times a week.
Give it two to three days after coloring before sauna-ing.
Your Hair-Safe Sauna Blueprint
We all love a little sauna time to relax and chill out, but the hair health concerns are very real. Excessive heat can cause hair to become dry and brittle. Don’t worry— if you take proper precautions, you can enjoy the sauna and maintain healthy hair!
Here’s an easy infrared sauna blueprint to safeguard your hair before, during, and after your session.
Smart pre-sauna hair prep
- Go in with clean hair. Because grime and perspiration easily cling to hair and scalp, cleansing before a sauna session is key.
A leave-in conditioner or a natural hair oil, such as coconut or argan, creates a barrier on your hair. This seals moisture in and prevents dryness.
Opt for low-maintenance options such as soft braids or a low chignon. These simple styles reduce breakage and protect hair.
Avoid excessive amounts of gel, spray, or mousse when heading to a sauna. These can bake into hair and scalp, exacerbating issues.
Protecting hair inside the heat
A sauna hat, as simple as it sounds, is made from cotton or wool materials that block direct heat and help to keep your scalp cool.
For some, it’s enough to decide that they simply feel better with hair down, and others prefer to have hair pulled up.
While loose hair allows for air flow, a braid or bun reduces tangles. Avoid heavy products—they can trap heat and sweat, which can leave the scalp oily.
Don’t extend your sauna sessions longer than 10-15 minutes, especially at first. This reduces the likelihood of cuticle disruption and dehydration.
Essential post-sauna hair care
Post-sauna, opt for a mild shampoo to wash away perspiration and toxins. A deep conditioner or a hydrating mask restores moisture that may have been lost.
Leave-in conditioners can be applied post-sauna to preserve hair softness throughout the day.
Following these steps will nourish your scalp and can even lead to healthier hair growth through increased blood circulation.
Busting Common Sauna Hair Myths
Though saunas are a popular wellness trend, just like anything else, there is a lot of misinformed discussion surrounding hair damage. In places like Los Angeles, and other urban centers where wellness trends spread like wildfire, separating fact from fiction is essential. Infrared saunas, which don’t get as hot, are a common choice.
Are these myths about saunas damaging your hair actually true? Here’s busting these common myths and exposing the truth about sauna use and your hair.
Myth: All saunas destroy hair
Myth: All saunas ruin hair. This isn’t true at all. Since traditional saunas are much hotter, hair can become dry and brittle, especially if proper care isn’t taken. Infrared saunas utilize a less intense heat—generally ranging from 113 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit—which is a bit easier on the hair.
Applying a hair mask prior to your session and leaving it on for 10–15 minutes allows your hair to absorb moisture. While dryness from heat can’t be completely avoided, easy things like this help tremendously. With a little TLC, incorporating sauna use into your routine can be a healthy win.
Myth: Sauna equals hair thinning
Sauna equal hair thinning myth. Saunas are too hot for hair, is the common assumption. Again, the majority of hair thinning can be traced to factors like genetics, hormones or stress—not sauna sessions. Saunas increase blood circulation, and according to some research, improved circulation can help maintain a healthy scalp and promote hair growth.
As always, stay tuned to hear about more exciting research! Moderate sauna use does not appear to directly lead to hair loss.
Myth: Oily scalps suffer more
Myth: Oily scalps suffer more. In reality, sweating helps wash away excess oil, dead skin, and other product buildup. This detox effect provides a cleansing of the scalp. Rinsing hair after a sauna session is the best way to prevent buildup.
For anyone with oily hair, this routine is key to maintaining a healthy balance.
My View: Infrared Sauna for Hair
Infrared saunas are popping up in wellness centers all around Los Angeles. For some, the lure is the promise of relieving stress or muscle soreness. There is increasing discussion about how these saunas can benefit hair health as well.
Infrared heat increases blood circulation to the scalp and can aid in hair growth. Other studies report it increases hair growth by more than 35% during treatments. Still, there’s another side: heat dries out hair, and too much can make it weak or brittle. Finding out what works for you—that’s essential.
Finding your personal heat balance
So, not everyone’s hair reacts to heat in the same manner. While some users crank the sauna up, others prefer to turn it down. Experiment with various settings and discover what works best for you.
Leave it on for ten minutes initially, then judge if your hair is becoming dried out or feels different in texture. Many users simply maintain a short logbook to note their observations. In this manner, you can recognize when your hair is improving, maintaining or requires additional attention.
If you notice any tightness in your scalp, it’s a sign that you should be reducing the temperature. If your hair seems frizzy, take a break from sessions, or reduce frequency.
Tuning into your hair's needs
This is why it’s so important to listen to your hair. If you notice an increase in split ends or have a dry, itchy scalp, your hair may be begging for help. For those of us with thin, delicate or color-treated hair, sauna heat can be downright intense.
People with thicker hair may have less trouble. Applying a leave-in conditioner or wearing a soft, breathable hat in the sauna can further seal in moisture. For personalized guidance tailored to your hair, consulting with an experienced salon professional can provide valuable assistance.
Smart Sauna Use for Great Hair
Infrared sauna use can benefit your hair health if you take the right precautions. The heat produced by these saunas increases the circulation to the scalp. This boost in circulation can help nourish hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth.
Excessive heat or duration in the sauna will dry out your strands and contribute to split ends. Mix up sauna use with a healthy regimen for max results! Listen to what your hair requires on an individual basis.
How often and how long?
How often and how long? Here’s the good news, most pros suggest aiming for only one to three saunas per week. They recommend limiting each sauna session to 15-20 minutes. This is critical for preventing heat damage and dryness.
Infrared saunas operate at a lower temperature than conventional ones—typically between 100°F and 150°F—which is less damaging to hair. That said, it’s always a good idea to reassess how your scalp and hair are responding on an individual basis after each session.
While some individuals will find they flourish with a weekly practice, others will want to reduce frequency. One day use an intense conditioner, another use a leave-in, one day do a scalp mask, etc., to keep your hair healthy and resilient.
Adopt hair-kind sauna rituals
Applying a barrier of natural oil or serum beforehand will help protect strands from excess moisture loss. Deep oil treatments using coconut or argan oil are extremely effective and serve to lock in moisture.
Others take advantage of the heat to allow hair masks to penetrate more fully. The sauna is a unique opportunity to relax and relieve stress—a contributor to hair loss.
Know when to skip sauna
When to skip sauna? If your scalp is sore or in general if you notice your hair becoming extremely dry, it’s time to sit one out. Individuals with existing scalp conditions or those who have undergone recent chemical treatments should be especially cautious.
Explore alternative relaxation methods, such as a warm bath or meditation, when sauna use is inappropriate.
Conclusion
Infrared saunas heat your body quickly and deeply, but they won’t damage your hair as long as you don’t overdo it. Most people in LA visit the sauna to unwind or soothe sore muscles—not to experience hair shenanigans. Cover your hair with a towel. Keeping your hair, and especially your ends, protected in sauna is essential. Avoid damaging hair products before your sweat session, and hydrate to avoid dry, brittle hair! No outrageous testimonials or fearmongering here. Luckily, science is on your side when it comes to hair damage from these saunas being extremely unlikely to occur with regular use. Want to prevent damage to your hair while you sauna? Keep it simple and be mindful of dehydration. Avoid fancy hair products and treatments while in the sauna. Talk to your stylist or doc for other suggestions, if necessary. Have sauna experiences or tips for healthy hair? Tell us your suggestions in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is infrared sauna heat more damaging to hair than traditional sauna heat?
No. Infrared saunas – which use a more gentle heat that penetrates more deeply into the body – fall under this category. That’s a good thing, because this heat is much more damaging to hair than traditional sauna heat.
Can infrared sauna sessions cause hair loss?
Surprisingly, there’s not much clear evidence that infrared saunas directly lead to hair loss. It’s true that overheating and dehydration will dry out hair, but proper sauna practices will keep your hair safe and healthy.
Should I cover my hair during an infrared sauna session?
Yes, yes, yes! Covering your hair with a towel or shower cap prevents moisture from escaping! Additionally, it protects your hair from heat, particularly if you have colored or delicate locks.
How often can I safely use an infrared sauna without harming my hair?
Generally, it is safe for most people to use an infrared sauna two to three times a week. Minimize hair damage by not staying in the sauna too long—20–30 minute sessions are best for limiting dryness.
Will colored or chemically treated hair be affected in an infrared sauna?
Colored or chemically treated hair will be more sensitive. Apply protective products and cover your hair to avoid the risk of fading or dryness during sauna sessions.
What are the best ways to protect my hair in an infrared sauna?
Drink lots of water before and after the sauna. Leave-in conditioners, towel wraps, and avoiding heat tools post-session can go a long way.
Does infrared sauna use in Los Angeles require any special precautions for hair?
Yes. LA’s parched, desert like climate can cause hair to lose moisture faster than usual. To prevent damage, regularly hydrate your tresses, be mindful of your sauna sessions, and consider shielding your strands.