Thinning hair? You’ve tried serums, oils, and standing on your head—but have you considered a Sauna/Infrared Sauna? The short answer: yes, Infrared Saunas might support hair growth! From boosting scalp circulation to easing stress, a Home Sauna, Garden Sauna, or Outdoor Sauna could become your hair’s best friend. Keep reading to find out how!

Understanding Infrared Saunas and Hair Health
What is an Infrared Sauna and How Does it Differ from Traditional Saunas?
An Infrared Sauna uses invisible light waves to heat your body directly, rather than heating the air around you.
This results in a gentler, more tolerable heat compared to traditional saunas.
While a conventional sauna cranks up the room to 80–100°C, an Infrared Sauna usually sits comfortably between 40–60°C.
This allows for longer, more comfortable sessions, ideal for relaxation—and potentially your hair.
Because it heats the body and not just the room, it may also affect circulation and cellular processes differently.
Infrared Technology Explained (Near, Mid, Far Infrared)
Infrared Saunas use a spectrum of wavelengths:
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Near infrared penetrates the skin’s surface
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Mid infrared reaches muscles and joints
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Far infrared goes deepest, encouraging detox and circulation
Each wavelength plays a unique role, but far infrared is the most common in Home Sauna and Garden Sauna setups.
Gentle Heat vs. Hot Air: Impact on Hair and Scalp
The gentle warmth of Infrared Saunas avoids the harsh drying effects of traditional dry saunas.
This means less stress on hair strands and scalp.
Instead of blasting hot air, it warms you internally, helping maintain scalp moisture.
Regular sessions may help soothe irritated scalps and reduce dryness-related hair breakage.
That makes Infrared Sauna a more scalp-friendly choice for hair-conscious users.
The Science Behind Infrared Saunas and Potential Hair Benefits
Improved Blood Circulation to the Scalp
Heat from an Infrared Sauna encourages vasodilation—widening of blood vessels.
This improves blood flow, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to your scalp.
Better circulation may help stimulate hair follicles, encouraging healthier, stronger growth over time.
This is particularly useful for people with slow-growing or thinning hair.
Detoxification and Scalp Health
Sweating is a natural way to flush out toxins.
Infrared Sauna sessions promote deep sweating, helping remove impurities from the skin—including your scalp.
By clearing clogged pores and reducing build-up, the scalp becomes a healthier environment for hair to grow.
This supports better follicle function and reduces the risk of dandruff or irritation.
Stress Reduction and its Link to Hair Loss
Stress is a major contributor to hair loss, particularly in conditions like telogen effluvium.
Infrared Sauna use activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping the body relax.
By lowering cortisol levels and promoting calm, regular use may reduce stress-related hair shedding.
Relaxation really can do wonders for your hair!
Collagen and Elastin Production for Hair Strength
Some studies suggest infrared exposure may stimulate collagen and elastin production.
These proteins support the skin’s structure—including the scalp.
A healthier scalp with more elasticity may hold hair follicles better, contributing to reduced shedding.
This isn’t magic—it’s physiology enhanced by gentle warmth.
Infrared Sauna vs. Red Light Therapy for Hair Growth

Key Differences in Mechanism and Application
Infrared Sauna: Heat, Sweat, and Whole-Body Benefits
Infrared Saunas are holistic in nature.
They heat the entire body and induce sweating, offering benefits from circulation to relaxation.
Though not directly targeted at the scalp, their systemic effects can support hair health indirectly.
This makes them a great option for people wanting both wellness and cosmetic benefits.
Red Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation): Cellular Stimulation Without Heat
Red light therapy uses LED lights to stimulate cells without heat.
It penetrates the skin to encourage ATP (cell energy) production and may directly activate hair follicles.
It’s targeted, cool, and ideal for localised use on the scalp.
But it lacks the full-body benefits and relaxing warmth of an Infrared Sauna.
Can They Be Used Together?
Synergistic Effects for Enhanced Hair and Overall Wellness
Yes—using both can be effective.
You get targeted stimulation from red light therapy and systemic benefits from Infrared Saunas.
This combined approach may enhance circulation, reduce inflammation, and nourish follicles.
Plus, the relaxing ritual of a Home Sauna pairs beautifully with a scalp session afterwards.
Maximising Benefits and Protecting Your Hair During Infrared Sauna Sessions
Practical Tips for Infrared Sauna Use and Hair Care
Hydration Before, During, and After Sessions
Always drink plenty of water before and after your session.
Sweating causes fluid loss, and dehydration can dry out your scalp and hair.
Aim for a glass before and one after.
Electrolyte drinks can be helpful too, especially during longer sessions.
Protecting Hair from Dryness (Hair Masks, Oils, Towels, Sauna Hats)
To shield your strands, apply a light hair oil or mask beforehand.
Alternatively, wear a sauna hat or wrap your hair in a damp towel.
This creates a protective barrier against moisture loss.
It also turns your Garden Sauna session into a hair spa ritual!
Recommended Session Lengths and Frequency
Start with 15–20 minute sessions and gradually work up to 30–40 minutes.
Aim for 3–4 times per week for best results.
Consistency matters more than intensity when it comes to scalp benefits.
And don’t forget to cool down slowly afterwards.
What to Consider Before Starting Infrared Sauna Therapy for Hair Growth
Consulting with a Healthcare Professional
If you have a medical condition or take medication, always check with your GP first.
Conditions like low blood pressure, cardiovascular concerns, or pregnancy may require caution.
Safety first—especially when starting a new wellness routine like regular Outdoor Sauna use.
Understanding Individual Results and Expectations
Hair growth is complex and varies by person.
Infrared Sauna benefits may support your routine, but it’s not a miracle fix.
Think of it as one tool in a larger toolkit.
Patience and consistency are key—just like any other hair treatment.
Takeaways
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Infrared Saunas support scalp health through improved circulation, detox, and relaxation
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Gentle heat makes them safer for hair than traditional dry saunas
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They can complement red light therapy for enhanced results
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Protecting your hair and staying hydrated maximises benefits
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Speak to a professional before starting regular sessions