Home /
Blog / Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna
What Is a Full Spectrum Infrared Sauna?
A full spectrum infrared sauna is a type of sauna that emits near, mid, and far infrared wavelengths simultaneously, delivering the most complete form of infrared light therapy available. Unlike a traditional sauna that heats the air around you using rocks and steam, an infrared sauna uses panels that emit invisible light waves which penetrate the skin and warm the body directly from the inside out. Full spectrum means you receive all three bands of the infrared spectrum in a single session, each targeting different depths and functions within the body.
Because infrared heat works by raising your core temperature rather than superheating the surrounding air, full spectrum saunas operate at much lower ambient temperatures than traditional saunas, typically between 45 and 65 degrees Celsius. Despite the gentler air temperature, most people find they produce a deeper, more profuse sweat. This makes it an appealing option for those who want the benefits of intense heat therapy without the overwhelming feeling of sitting in extremely hot air.
How Does Infrared Light Therapy Work?
Each wavelength in the infrared spectrum penetrates the body to a different depth and serves a distinct purpose. Near infrared is the shortest wavelength and is absorbed just below the surface of the skin. It is known for supporting skin health, promoting cellular renewal, and encouraging the production of collagen. Athletes and wellness enthusiasts often value near infrared for its role in supporting tissue repair at the cellular level.
Mid infrared wavelengths penetrate deeper into the body's soft tissue, where they help improve circulation and support muscle recovery. This band of light can reach into joints and muscles, making it particularly useful for those dealing with stiffness or soreness after physical activity. Far infrared is the longest wavelength and penetrates the deepest, reaching into the body's core. It is the primary driver of the detoxification response, raising internal body temperature and producing a heavy, cleansing sweat from the inside out. When all three wavelengths are combined, the body receives a layered, comprehensive experience that addresses everything from the surface of the skin to the deepest tissues.
General Wellness Considerations
One of the most common reasons people gravitate toward full spectrum infrared saunas is comfort. Because the air temperature is significantly lower than in a traditional sauna, many people who find conventional saunas too hot or difficult to breathe in discover that infrared sessions feel far more manageable. The lower humidity and gentler ambient heat allow you to stay in the sauna longer, giving your body more time to absorb the infrared wavelengths and build a deep, sustained sweat.
Full spectrum infrared saunas are popular among athletes looking to support recovery between training sessions, individuals managing joint stiffness or chronic tension, and anyone seeking deep relaxation without the intensity of extreme heat. The experience is often described as warming from within, a gradual, soothing build of heat that leaves you feeling both energised and deeply calm. It is also an excellent complement to cold therapy, with many people alternating between infrared sessions and cold plunges for a contrast therapy routine.
What to Expect at Balnea
At Balnea Sauna & Recovery in Murwillumbah, our full spectrum infrared sauna is one of the most popular facilities in the centre. The cabin is designed for comfort with quality panels that deliver all three infrared wavelengths evenly throughout your session. Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned sauna user, our friendly staff are always on hand to walk you through the experience, adjust settings, and make sure you feel completely at ease.
Sessions start from $35 for a 25-minute session or $55 for a longer 55-minute experience, giving you flexibility depending on how much time you have and how deep you want to go. You can enjoy the full spectrum infrared sauna on its own or combine it with our other facilities, including the traditional sauna, cold plunge, hot spa, and compression boots, as part of one of our recovery packages. It is a perfect starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of infrared therapy.