- Healthy perspiration from the inside outward.
The many positive effects attributed to infrared cabins can be explained solely by the body’s response to stimulation of temperature regulation. Warmth treatment is then the main effect. Infrared radiation is merely a vehicle that is highly suited to this purpose, since it works without contact and does not interfere with the skin’s temperature regulation mechanisms.
C infrared heaters have the advantage that only a narrow distance from the heater needs to be maintained. A-type infrared radiation, on the other hand, is possibly associated with a long-term risk. When used by wellness facilities or at home, the risks of this type of radiation might then outweigh the benefits.
Stimulation or penetrating warmth
Two different infrared cabin designs can be roughly distinguished depending on design orientation, one more in the direction of“stimulation” and the other more in the direction of“penetrating warmth”:
1. Infrared cabins with effects more in the direction of “stimulation” work either with relative high air temperatures (50 °C – 60 °C) or expose a large area of skin to a suitably strong dose of infrared radiation. In this case the body reduces blood flow from the skin to the interior of the body in the manner described above.
2. Infrared cabins with effects in the direction of “penetrating warmth” work in contrast with low air temperatures (30 °C – 36 °C). Warmth is supplied almost exclusively to a local area (usually by way of the back) by an infrared heater running continuously. The return flow of blood from the skin is also maintained continuously.
What are the requirements for an optimum penetrating warmth treatment?
- It does not interfere with the temperature regulation of the skin - no strain due to heat.
- It takes place in a thermally neutral environment - at indifference temperature warmth is optimally absorbed and dissipated (between 30 °C and 36 °C).
- It results in only a minimal strain to the cardio-vascular system - slow, gradual redistribution of blood from the beginning; slow, continual increase of body temperature to a level below the fever range.
- It reduces stress factors.
- It complies with the four main ways in which warmth works (see types of heat transfer).
- It is scientifically proven to be safe and effective.
