Infrared Safety Guide
Your comprehensive guide to safe infrared sauna therapy. Understanding proper usage, health precautions, and best practices ensures you get maximum benefits while prioritising your safety and wellbeing.
Essential Safety Guidelines
Infrared sauna therapy is generally safe for most healthy adults when used properly. However, understanding key safety principles and recognising when to exercise caution is essential for a beneficial and secure experience.
Our safety guidelines are based on current medical research and established wellness protocols, designed specifically for UK users of home infrared therapy systems.
Important Notice
Always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any infrared therapy regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take medications.
Health Precautions & Contraindications
Who Should Avoid Infrared Therapy
Medical Contraindications
- Pregnancy (all stages)
- Severe cardiovascular disease
- Recent surgical implants or metal prosthetics
- Active cancer treatment
- Severe kidney or liver disease
- Multiple sclerosis or heat-sensitive conditions
- Recent injury or inflammation
Requires Medical Consultation
- Diabetes (blood sugar monitoring needed)
- Blood pressure medications
- Heart conditions or pacemakers
- Chronic health conditions
- Regular prescription medications
Age and Physical Considerations
Children and Elderly
Children under 12 should not use infrared saunas. Teenagers (13-17) require adult supervision and shorter sessions. Adults over 65 should start with lower temperatures and shorter durations.
Physical Limitations
Those with mobility issues, heat sensitivity, or difficulty regulating body temperature should exercise additional caution and seek medical guidance before use.
Safe Usage Guidelines
Temperature Guidelines
Beginners
40-50°C (104-122°F)
Regular Users
50-60°C (122-140°F)
Maximum Safe
60°C (140°F)
Session Duration
First Sessions
10-15 minutes
Regular Sessions
20-30 minutes
Maximum Time
45 minutes
Frequency Guidelines
Beginners
2-3 times per week
Regular Users
3-4 times per week
Maximum
Daily (with care)
Pre-Session Preparation
Essential Preparation Steps
- Hydrate well 2-3 hours before your session
- Avoid alcohol and large meals beforehand
- Remove all jewellery and metal objects
- Shower to remove lotions and deodorants
- Have a towel and water bottle ready
- Wear minimal, loose clothing or towel
During Your Session
Safety Monitoring
- Listen to your body at all times
- Exit immediately if feeling unwell
- Drink water regularly during the session
- Change positions occasionally
- Keep the session door unlocked
- Never fall asleep during therapy
Warning Signs & Emergency Procedures
Stop Immediately If You Experience
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing
- Excessive fatigue or weakness
- Headache or confusion
- Skin irritation or burning
Emergency Response
If you experience severe symptoms, exit the sauna immediately, cool down gradually, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. For medical emergencies, call 999 (UK emergency services).
UK Emergency Contacts
Emergency Services: 999
NHS Non-Emergency: 111
Poison Control: NHS 111
Post-Session Care & Recovery
Immediate Post-Session
Proper post-session care is crucial for maximising benefits and ensuring your safety. Allow your body to cool down gradually and monitor how you feel for several hours after your session.
Recovery Protocol
- Cool down gradually – avoid sudden temperature changes
- Rehydrate with water or electrolyte drinks
- Take a lukewarm shower to remove toxins
- Rest for 10-15 minutes after your session
- Avoid alcohol for several hours
- Listen to your body’s recovery needs
Long-term Monitoring
Keep track of how your body responds to infrared therapy over time. Some people may need to adjust temperature, duration, or frequency based on their individual response and health status.
When to Adjust Your Routine
- Persistent fatigue after sessions
- Difficulty sleeping after use
- Skin sensitivity or irritation
- Changes in health status
UK Safety Standards & Regulations
Electrical Safety Standards
All infrared saunas sold in the UK must comply with British electrical safety standards. Ensure your equipment bears CE marking and has been installed by a qualified electrician following UK wiring regulations.
UK Compliance Requirements
- CE marking for electrical safety
- BS 7909 electrical installation standards
- RCD protection required
- PAT testing recommendations
- Building regulations compliance
Professional Support
The Shape House provides comprehensive support for UK customers, including installation guidance, safety training, and ongoing technical support to ensure your infrared therapy experience is both safe and effective.
Related Resources
Your Safety is Our Priority
Infrared sauna therapy can be a wonderful addition to your wellness routine when used safely and responsibly. Always prioritise your health, listen to your body, and don’t hesitate to consult healthcare professionals when in doubt. The Shape House is committed to providing safe, effective infrared therapy solutions for UK homes.