Infrared saunas have become a popular staple in the wellness industry. Many people are enjoying them in their own homes! Choosing the right one can take a little research–sometimes a lot. You might be wondering about something called ‘EMFs’, or electromagnetic fields. But what exactly is a low EMF sauna and what is considered safe?
An Introduction to EMFs
Electro-Magnetic Fields (EMF) surround us. Radios, power lines, Wi-Fi routers, cellphones, televisions, microwaves–all electronics output at least a small amount of EMF. It’s natural to wonder what exactly they are, what they do, and if there are harmful effects.
There are two main types of EMF:
- High-Frequency EMF: These include x-rays and gamma radiation and they emit ionizing radiation. These have the potential to damage cells and DNA. UV rays also fall into this category. That’s why it’s important to wear sunscreen when you go outside.
- Low to Mid Frequency EMF: These EMFs are commonly produced by electronic devices. They also include infrared and visible light. Yes, visible light is a form of EMF! Fortunately, low and mid-frequency EMFs are not known to cause any damage to cells or DNA.
Are EMFs Dangerous?
Researchers have spent decades learning the potential health impacts of EMFs. We know High-Frequency EMFs are dangerous and that other forms of ionizing radiation can cause health issues. Is it possible for low and mid-frequency EMFs to cause problems, too?
Luckily, according to the World Health Organization, major studies have found there’s no link between low-frequency EMFs and adverse health effects. The CDC, World Health Organization, National Cancer Institute, NIH, and numerous other medical authorities agree that low to mid-frequency EMFs (or non-ionizing radiation) are considered safe and pose no known health risks.
Conclusive long-term studies are limited and still ongoing. Increased exposure to low-frequency EMFs with the advent of the internet and personal tech understandably leaves some consumers nervous. But having an infrared sauna at home should not be a health concern. In fact, it’s a health benefit.
EMFs and Saunas
There is a misconception that traditional saunas don’t use infrared radiation to create heat. In fact, all heat sources emit infrared radiation which is why thermal cameras measure infrared light/radiation. However, most are not considered to be dangerous.
Traditional saunas and infrared saunas deliver radiation differently. A traditional sauna uses a heat source to warm the air, which warms your skin (and the blood flowing through it) to create the sauna experience.
An infrared sauna emits infrared radiation directly and penetrates your skin and muscles, warming you from the inside out. This means the air doesn’t get as hot (making it safer for people with cardiovascular issues). Plus, the health benefits of sauna are delivered more directly.
What about low EMF saunas?
As discussed above, people want to enjoy the benefits of an infrared sauna without exposing themselves to EMFs unnecessarily. Health Mate designs and manufactures its own saunas, and customer safety is a priority with all our models. Each one features low EMF exclusively.
In fact, we have a unique heater that outlasts most carbon heaters. Even better, our patented Tecoloy Heaters penetrate 40% deeper than the carbon heaters used by other brands. These heaters reach high temperatures faster and are low EMF certified. They’re also more energy-efficient—the major advantage they have over carbon heaters. Plus, they are positioned to emit heat a complete 360 degrees, surrounding your entire body.
Additionally, our Inspire series has bridged the gap between smart saunas and low EMF technology. Most smart saunas rely on Bluetooth to connect a phone to the sauna’s controls, which increases the EMFs in and around the sauna. Our smart saunas use an app that connects via Wi-Fi. This means there is no increase in the number of EMFs being generated to operate your in-home sauna.