At Ember and Ice, we’re often asked whether it’s better to choose an infrared sauna or red light therapy, and whether combining them makes a difference. Both are powerful, science-backed tools, but they work in very different ways.

What red light therapy does

Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light that penetrate the skin and energise your cells. Research associates it with:

• Supporting collagen and elastin for smoother, firmer skin
• Easing inflammation and joint discomfort
• Supporting muscle recovery after training
• Supporting better sleep and mood

We supply dedicated red light therapy systems so you can target specific areas with the right light intensity and duration.

What infrared saunas do

Infrared saunas heat your body directly using near- and far-infrared wavelengths. Rather than heating the air, they gently raise your core temperature, which is associated with:

• Supporting circulation and cardiovascular health
• Easing soreness and stiffness
• Triggering a deep, relaxing sweat
• Activating heat-shock proteins that support cellular repair

Our infrared sauna range is designed for full-body, systemic benefits, ideal for relaxation, recovery and long-term wellbeing.

One targets your cells. The other warms your whole body.
Ember & Ice Wellness

Should you combine them?

Some facilities put red light panels inside infrared saunas. It sounds appealing, but there isn’t strong evidence that using them at the same time gives more benefit than using them separately. Keeping them separate often makes more sense:

• Infrared saunas work best for 20 to 30 minutes of whole-body heat.
• Red light therapy is most effective in shorter, focused sessions of 10 to 20 minutes on targeted areas (skin, joints or muscles).

Used independently, you get the full benefit of each without compromise.

The Ember and Ice approach

We don’t combine red light and infrared saunas into one unit. Instead, we provide specialised equipment for each:

• Dedicated infrared saunas for circulation, cardiovascular support and heat conditioning.
• Purpose-built red light therapy beds and panels for targeted recovery, skin and performance.

That way you can build a personalised routine around your goals, whether that’s faster recovery after sport, healthier-looking skin or simply deeper relaxation.

The bottom line

• Both red light therapy and infrared saunas are safe and evidence-backed.
• They work differently: one targets your cells, the other your whole body.
• Using them separately is usually the most beneficial approach.

We’ll help you find the right solution, or combination, for your lifestyle. Explore our red light therapy beds and saunas, or get in touch.

These therapies are intended for general wellbeing and recovery. If you have a health condition, speak to a qualified professional.