Cellulite is dimpled skin found on the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen. Although it’s a cosmetic condition and not a medical issue, many people are eager to lessen its appearance with methods that form smoother, toned skin.
If creams or massages aren’t working alone, there’s another solution to decrease cellulite. Keep reading to learn what you should know about infrared saunas and how they can reduce cellulite in your body.
What Is Cellulite, and Why Do We Have It?
Before we get into infrared saunas and their benefits for people with cellulite, let’s review what cellulite is.
What Is Cellulite?
Cellulite forms when fat deposits push through the connective tissues beneath the skin, creating a bumpy, dimpled texture. This condition affects the majority of women at some point in their lives, regardless of age, weight, or fitness level.
While it most frequently appears on the thighs, buttocks, and hips, cellulite can develop in other areas of the body as well. Cellulite is a cosmetic issue and is a natural, harmless feature of the body’s structure.
Why Does Cellulite Develop?
Cellulite appears due to a combination of genetics, hormones, and lifestyle factors. Women are particularly prone to developing cellulite due to differences in connective tissue structure and fat distribution. This makes it easier for fat cells to press against the skin. Hormonal fluctuations, such as people experiencing puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can further contribute to its progression. Men can develop cellulite as well. However, it is less common.
Keep in mind that cellulite is not a sign of poor health. It is prevalent across all body types.
How Infrared Saunas Work
Now that we’ve covered how cellulite emerges, let’s review what you should know about infrared saunas as a form of treatment. Infrared saunas offer a unique alternative to traditional saunas, using infrared light to create heat instead of warming the surrounding air. This technology penetrates up to 1.5 inches beneath the skin, gently heating muscles, tissues, and cells from within.
Infrared saunas produce a deep, invigorating sweat at lower temperatures than the average sauna, making the experience comfortable and effective. By directly heating the body, these saunas boost circulation, enhance detoxification, and promote overall wellness.
Cellulite Reduction With Infrared Saunas
When it comes to cellulite reduction, the claims largely center around several bodily processes that infrared saunas can enhance. Increased circulation, improved lymphatic drainage, and boosted collagen production are key factors in minimizing cellulite.
1. Circulation
The heat from infrared saunas promotes blood flow. Increased blood circulation can nourish skin tissue and deliver nutrients where they’re needed the most. As a result, infrared saunas may smooth the appearance of dimpled skin from uneven fat deposits.
2. Detoxification
One of the standout claims about infrared saunas is their ability to support detoxification through sweating. Proponents argue that by reducing toxins and waste stored in fat cells, you may also improve skin texture. The fewer toxins in your body, the better you’ll feel and the healthier your skin will look.
3. Collagen Production
Infrared light supports the production of collagen and elastin—proteins that keep the skin firm, smooth, and resilient. By strengthening connective tissues, collagen production can reduce the visibility of cellulite, making the skin appear tight and toned.
4. Stress Relief
In addition to the physical benefits, the stress-relieving qualities of saunas can also contribute to diminishing cellulite. Chronic stress affects hormone levels and contributes to cellulite formation. By sitting in a calm, relaxing environment, infrared saunas help to alleviate stress.
Although these benefits sound promising, it’s important to note that infrared saunas alone won’t completely remove cellulite from the body. They can contribute to minimizing its appearance, but lasting results usually require a combination of consistent infrared sauna use and various lifestyle practices.
Maximize the Results of Infrared Sauna Sessions
Infrared saunas can reduce the cellulite in your body, but only if they’re integrated correctly into a holistic fitness and wellness regimen. Some ways to maximize the results from infrared sauna sessions for cellulite reduction are consistency, hydration, and additional skin treatments.
1. How Often Should You Use an Infrared Sauna?
Three to four sessions per week, each session lasting between 30 and 45 minutes, will provide the most benefits. However, beginners should start with short sessions lasting up to 10 minutes twice a week.
Gradually increase the duration as your body adapts to the heat. Over time, consistent use can help you experience long-term improvements in overall wellness, including clearer skin.
2. Hydration Is Crucial
Hydration is key before, during, and after each sauna session. Infrared saunas make you sweat more intensely than traditional saunas, which can cause fluid loss. Drinking plenty of water replenishes lost fluids, supports detoxification, and provides additional blood circulation.
3. Use Skin Treatments
To amplify the benefits of infrared sauna sessions, combine them with skin treatments that nourish and cleanse your skin.
Dry Brushing
Use a natural bristle brush before your session to exfoliate and stimulate lymphatic drainage. This helps remove dead skin cells, improve circulation, and enhance the absorption of skincare products.
Firming Creams
Post-session, your skin is more receptive to products. Apply firming creams or serums with ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or peptides to boost skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines or cellulite.
4. Support Circulation and Muscle Tone
To get the most out of your sauna routine, pair it with activities that promote circulation and muscle health. Regular exercise, such as cardio or yoga, improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to your tissues, while strength training builds and tones muscles. Improved circulation aids recovery and enhances the delivery of nutrients to your skin, helping you look and feel your best.
5. Consume a Nutrient-Rich Diet
Your diet plays an influential role in your skin’s appearance. Focus on incorporating foods rich in collagen, antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats into your meals.
Collagen, found in bone broth and supplements, helps maintain skin elasticity. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and citrus fruits protect the skin from contaminants. Healthy fats from sources such as avocados, nuts, and salmon keep the skin hydrated and supple.
Benefit From Infrared Saunas With Health Mate
Infrared saunas offer numerous benefits that make them a great addition to any wellness routine. While it’s not a miracle cure for cellulite, these resources can aid in improving skin texture, boosting collagen production, and enhancing overall well-being.
If you’re interested in adding a sauna to your home, Health Mate can help! We offer a great selection of models, including one-person full-spectrum infrared saunas. Browse our collection of infrared saunas online or contact our staff to speak with an expert today.