Could an Infrared Sauna Help You Lose Weight?

To ring in the new year, Dr. Ian swung by to talk about the latest health trends -- including one we’ve been seeing everywhere: the infrared sauna.

Now, because it uses infrared heat, an infrared sauna isn’t quite as hot as a traditional sauna. But thanks to the infrared, there can be a thermogenic effect on the body.

“It increases your circulation and creates something called thermogenesis, which means you’re heating up your body,” says Dr. Ian.

So, what are the benefits?

According to some, dropped pounds.

“You will burn calories, because when you heat up and cool down, your body is working,” Dr. Ian explains. “Everytime your body is working, it needs energy to work and that energy comes from calories.”

Just as great, some people report better skin and improved circulation after an infrared session.

But, just like other heat treatments, you have to be careful of doing it too frequently or too long, as it could dehydrate you.

“It’s not going to hurt you,” says Dr. Ian, “but there’s also not much proof how much it will actually help you.”