What Is Infrared Sauna in Austin and How Does It Work?
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
If you've seen "infrared sauna" on our services menu and wondered how it's different from the sauna at your gym, you're not alone. An infrared sauna uses infrared light to warm your body directly, rather than heating the air around you the way a traditional sauna does. That means lower cabin temperatures, a session that feels more comfortable for most people, and a deep, relaxing warmth that reaches beneath the surface of the skin. At 360 Tans, our private infrared sauna rooms in North and South Austin are one of the easiest ways to build a few minutes of real recovery and relaxation into your week.
Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Sauna: The Real Difference
A traditional sauna heats the air in the room, often to 150–195°F, and your body warms up because the air around you is hot. An infrared sauna works differently: infrared panels emit light energy that's absorbed directly by your skin and tissue, warming your body from within while the air stays much cooler, typically 120–150°F. That's why infrared sessions tend to feel gentler and more tolerable, especially if you've found traditional saunas too intense, while still producing a noticeable sweat and sense of deep warmth.
What to Expect at a 360 Tans Infrared Sauna Session
Each session takes place in a private room, so you're never sharing space with strangers. A typical visit runs 30–45 minutes. You'll want to arrive hydrated, wear light or minimal clothing, and bring a water bottle and towel. Many clients use the time to unplug — read, listen to music, or simply sit with the warmth — while others pair it with a same-day spray tan or red light therapy session (ask your technician about combining services in one visit).
Potential Benefits of Regular Infrared Sauna Use
Infrared sauna isn't a medical treatment, but consistent use is commonly associated with a few real, noticeable effects:
Relaxation and stress relief — the warmth and quiet time have a genuine calming effect for most people.
Improved circulation — heat exposure raises heart rate and blood flow similarly to light cardio activity.
Post-workout recovery — many Austin runners and cyclists use infrared sessions to ease muscle tightness after training.
Better sleep and a wind-down routine — an evening session can help signal your body it's time to relax.
If you have a heart condition, are pregnant, or take medication that affects your ability to regulate body temperature, check with your doctor before starting infrared sauna use — this is general wellness information, not medical advice.
How Often Should You Use an Infrared Sauna?
Most people see the best results from 2–3 sessions per week, though some clients enjoy a quick 20-minute session daily as part of their routine. If you're new to infrared sauna, start with one or two shorter sessions and build up from there as your body adjusts to the heat.
Book Your Infrared Sauna Session in Austin
360 Tans offers private infrared sauna rooms at both our North Austin and South Austin locations, with flexible scheduling around your custom spray tan or wellness appointment. Book online or call your preferred location to reserve your spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is infrared sauna the same as a regular sauna?
No. Traditional saunas heat the air around you; infrared saunas use light energy to warm your body directly, which is why they run at lower, more comfortable temperatures.
How long should my first infrared sauna session be?
Start with 20–30 minutes and see how your body responds. You can work up to a full 45-minute session over a few visits.
Can I do infrared sauna and a spray tan on the same day?
Yes, but timing matters — sweating can affect a fresh spray tan. Ask your 360 Tans technician about the best order for combining services in one visit.
Do I need to bring anything to my session?
Bring water and a towel. Light clothing or a swimsuit is fine — our sauna rooms are private.