Infrared saunas are increasingly popular for relaxation and wellness, but eye safety during these sessions is often overlooked. So, should you use eye protection? This is a common question among sauna users, especially for those who spend more time in these heated sessions. While infrared light has its benefits for the body, its effects on the eyes are less clear for most people.

In this article, we’ll explore whether eye protection is necessary in infrared saunas, the potential benefits and risks, and the types of protection you might want to consider for a more comfortable experience.

Do Infrared Saunas Harm My Eyes?

No, infrared saunas don’t typically harm the eyes in a direct way, but that doesn’t mean they’re completely risk-free. Infrared light is known for its warming effects, reaching deep into the body’s tissues to stimulate blood flow and relieve muscle tension. However, because infrared saunas use light energy, it’s understandable that people may feel some concern over eye exposure during sessions.

Infrared light falls in a range of wavelengths that the human eye generally doesn’t absorb intensely, which means it won’t likely cause the kind of immediate damage associated with UV rays. Still, some individuals report feeling eye strain or dryness after a long session. This is because our eyes are sensitive to any type of concentrated light, and extended exposure can lead to minor discomfort.

It’s also worth noting that while low levels of infrared exposure are considered safe, repeated or lengthy sessions may build up this mild strain over time. For people with more sensitive eyes or existing eye conditions, the discomfort might be a bit more noticeable. So, while there’s no significant evidence pointing to serious harm from infrared light, taking some precautions could help prevent those subtle irritations that could add up, especially if you’re a frequent user.

Benefits of Wearing Eye Protection in an Infrared Sauna

• Reduces Eye Strain: Wearing tinted goggles or an eye mask can help reduce eye strain caused by prolonged exposure to infrared light, especially during longer sessions. This can make your experience more relaxing by minimizing fatigue around your eyes.

• Maintains Moisture: Eye protection can help retain moisture, particularly beneficial if you’re prone to eye dryness. By blocking direct exposure to the warmth, protection can prevent that uncomfortable dryness that some users feel after a session.

• Enhances Relaxation: Protecting your eyes from the light and warmth allows for full relaxation without the minor irritations that can distract you. Blocking out light helps you fully focus on the benefits of the session.

• Good for Frequent Users: If you’re a regular sauna user, eye protection may help avoid repeated minor strain. Over time, this can make each session feel more comfortable and prevent any irritation from becoming a regular issue.

Eye protection isn’t necessary for everyone, but it’s worth considering if you notice any discomfort. With a small investment in protective wear, you could find your infrared sauna sessions becoming even more enjoyable.

Risks of Not Using Eye Protection

1. Eye Fatigue: The combination of heat and light in an infrared sauna can lead to eye fatigue, especially in sessions lasting over 20 minutes. You may feel a dull ache or heaviness around your eyes, similar to the strain experienced after prolonged screen time.

2. Dryness: Infrared saunas can dry out the air, which may contribute to eye dryness for some users. If you’re prone to dry eyes, this could lead to irritation or a gritty feeling in your eyes after a session.

3. Increased Sensitivity: Regular exposure to infrared light without protection could increase eye sensitivity over time. For those who frequently use saunas or prefer longer sessions, this sensitivity might become more noticeable and may even affect your overall comfort.

Types of Eye Protection for Infrared Sauna Sessions

There are several types of eye protection suitable for infrared saunas, depending on your comfort and personal preferences.

Here’s a look at the most common options:

1. Tinted Goggles: Tinted goggles are designed to reduce light exposure and help with eye strain. These goggles are easy to find, comfortable to wear, and effective for blocking out excessive light during longer sessions. Look for goggles that are lightweight and fit snugly without pressing too hard on the face.

2. Eye Masks: If you want to block out light entirely, an eye mask might be a good choice. Soft and lightweight, eye masks offer full coverage and are often adjustable for a comfortable fit. Many users find them great for achieving complete darkness, which can make the sauna experience feel even more relaxing.

3. UV/IR Blocking Glasses: Although infrared saunas don’t emit UV rays, UV/IR blocking glasses offer both UV and infrared light protection. These glasses can be beneficial if you have sensitive eyes and want extra protection. Make sure to choose pairs that specifically mention infrared blocking for best results.

4. Infrared Sauna Eyewear: Some eyewear products are specifically designed for infrared saunas. These are typically lightweight glasses or goggles that reduce exposure to infrared light without darkening your vision. These options can be comfortable and provide a gentle barrier if you’re not looking for full light-blocking.

When Should I Consider Wearing Eye Protection?

Eye protection is most useful in an infrared sauna if you’re sensitive to light, have existing eye conditions, or prefer longer sessions. If you find that your eyes feel dry or tired afterward, it might be a good idea to add some eye protection to your routine.

People who spend extended time in the sauna—20 minutes or more—often benefit from wearing goggles or an eye mask. This is especially true if you experience any discomfort, as even subtle irritation can add up over time with regular sessions.

Additionally, those with conditions like dry eye or light sensitivity should consider wearing protection as a standard part of their sauna practice. The added shield can help prevent dryness and reduce sensitivity, making each session more comfortable and enjoyable.

Also read: How long to stay in a sauna

Can You Use Infrared Saunas Without Eye Protection?

Yes, you can use infrared saunas without eye protection, but it depends on your comfort and sensitivity. Many people don’t experience any discomfort during short sessions, especially if they’re only spending 10 to 15 minutes in the sauna. For these shorter sessions, eye protection may not be necessary unless you have light-sensitive eyes or a preexisting eye condition.

If you don’t notice any strain, dryness, or irritation after your sessions, going without eye protection is likely safe for you. However, as with any wellness practice, listen to your body. If you feel discomfort after a session, it might be a sign that eye protection could help enhance your experience.

Conclusion

Using eye protection in an infrared sauna is largely a personal choice based on comfort. While infrared light generally doesn’t harm the eyes, some users might experience mild strain, dryness, or fatigue, especially during longer or frequent sessions. Simple options like goggles or eye masks can make sessions more comfortable for those sensitive to light or prone to dryness.

Ultimately, if you notice any discomfort during or after your sauna time, eye protection can be a worthwhile addition. Remember, the goal is to relax and enjoy each session, so adjust based on what feels best for you.