Everyone is familiar with saunas, even if they haven’t experienced one themselves. The movie or television image of a group of people sitting in a steamy room with robes or towels on (and not much more) is common. But did you know there is a specific type of sauna that cuts out the awkward social interaction and crowded benches? Personal infrared saunas are becoming more and more popular as a spa treatment.
Sarah Rizzo Skin and Boutique is one of the small spa businesses that offers sessions in these infrared saunas, and Sarah Rizzo herself wholeheartedly believes in the benefits and convenience of the personal infrared sauna treatments her business offers.
“The infrared saunas, which a lot of people still don’t know about, are just amazing, and I think that’s the incredible thing about having them in a spa environment,” Rizzo says. “If you go to any of those destination spas when you’re traveling, there’s that communal sauna that just feels awkward. I feel like this is the way to do it and to really reap the benefits of detoxing, sweating, relaxing, softening the muscles and the tissue, and opening up the pores.”
The infrared sauna is just one part of the whole spa experience, but it is central to priming the mind and body for total relaxation. Being fully unwound with relaxed muscles makes a facial or massage more enjoyable.
But infrared saunas are beneficial in many other ways besides just pregaming before the rest of your spa day.
Health and wellness
“Not only does it help with speeding up metabolism, but it can also help with weight loss. It helps with boosting your overall immune system, depression, anxiety, it can help you sleep better. It’s just so good for the body,” Rizzo says.
Medical professionals agree. A September 2024 article from mayoclinic.org suggests that infrared saunas can possibly help in the treatment of some health problems like high blood pressure, dementia, headaches, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis.
Acute care nurse practitioner Ugo Akamnonu notes that infrared saunas offer various health benefits, including “improved blood circulation, detoxification through enhanced sweating, relaxation by reducing stress and tension, relief from muscle and joint pain, skin rejuvenation, and potential support for weight loss through increased metabolic activity. The gentle heat may also boost immune function and promote overall well-being.”
Local sauna enthusiast David Cushman can testify to the benefits of the infrared sauna experience:
“When I am extra sore, I will go in and do about ten to fifteen minutes of stretching. The sauna is great for healing the muscles. When I have started not to feel great or have been battling a little cold, the sauna helps to semi-detox the body and clear up any sinus or congestion issues I have. I have also gone in, shut off all the lights, and used the heat and time to clear my mind and refocus my week. So, for me, it regularly improves muscle soreness, detoxes my system, and improves my mental focus.”
Maureen Privitera also finds that time in the sauna has an immediate stress-relieving and relaxation effect with its multiple choices of therapeutic light. “After a few sessions using especially the red light therapy,” she says, “I noticed reduced inflammation in my hands, improved skin appearance and hair regrowth where I had some recession.”
New levels of relaxation
The personal saunas offered at Sarah Rizzo Skin have many different features, including customizable LED lights which each have different health benefits, allowing you to target exactly which aspect of relaxation you crave. Or better yet, you can leave it on a color-changing cycle to get a little bit of everything. There’s also Bluetooth connection capability for a completely personalized audio experience.
The sensation of total relaxation is exactly what Rizzo strives for in her business. She aims to create a haven where the only thing you’re focused on is your own mind, body, and soul. While keeping the space quiet and serene limits what services Rizzo is willing and able to provide, it all comes down to her vision for the spa.
“A lot of people have said, ‘why don’t you do nails and hair?’ I don’t like that. Nothing against salons—we all get our hair and nails done—but there’s a place for that. I think when you mix it all together, it just becomes a little chaotic and disconnected. Blow dryers are going, high heels, chatting. I love the whole calm, serene environment,” Rizzo says.
Ultimately, infrared saunas aren’t just about the physical benefits. The saunas, along with the other services, are focused on creating a sanctuary that values and honors everyone’s need for comfort and renewal. The opportunity to retreat from the daily chaos of life is not only offered but enhanced. The privacy and customizability of the infrared saunas allow for a uniquely personalized experience—no crowded people, awkward stares, or loud noise—just the warmth and healing that comes from a place designed with intention and care.
This article originally appeared in the March/April 2025 issue of (585).
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