Red Light Therapy vs. Infrared Sauna: what’s the difference?
Red Light Therapy and infrared saunas both use light in the infrared spectrum — but beyond that, they’re completely different experiences. They work in different ways, target different systems in the body, and deliver very different results.
At Re Place, we offer Red Light Therapy because it’s fast, effective, and works beautifully alongside our other treatments. Here’s how it compares to an infrared sauna — and why we believe it’s the smarter choice for most people.
Red Light Therapy: a cellular-level treatment
Our full-body Red Light panel uses both red light (660nm) and near-infrared light (850nm) wavelengths. These wavelengths are clinically studied for their ability to penetrate the skin and affect cells directly — especially the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy (ATP) in your body.
When exposed to these wavelengths, your cells function better. That means faster regeneration, better repair, improved skin health, and reduced inflammation — all without heat, sweat, or downtime.
Infrared Sauna: heat-based detoxification
An infrared sauna uses far-infrared light to gently heat the body. It raises your core temperature, making you sweat and promoting detoxification. It’s commonly used to relieve muscle tension, support circulation, and encourage relaxation.
While it feels more comfortable than a traditional sauna, the goal is still heat and sweating — not cellular stimulation.
What’s the difference?
While both treatments use light in the infrared spectrum, they work in very different ways.
Red Light Therapy uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate your cells — particularly the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy (ATP). This supports skin health, tissue repair, inflammation reduction, and overall cellular function. The treatment feels warm but doesn’t involve any sweating or heat stress. It’s quick, comfortable, and non-invasive — Re Place sessions are just 10 minutes thanks to our powerful panel.
Infrared saunas, on the other hand, use far-infrared light to heat the body from the inside out. The goal is to raise your core temperature and promote sweating, which can help with detoxification, circulation, and relaxation. Sessions typically last 30–45 minutes and involve more preparation (e.g. changing clothes, post-session cooldown, possibly a shower).
In short:
Red Light Therapy supports regeneration and recovery at the cellular level, with no heat or effort required.
Infrared saunas focus on sweating and detox through heat exposure.
How they work in the body
Red Light Therapy stimulates energy production (ATP), helps reduce oxidative stress, and supports tissue repair, collagen production, and anti-inflammatory processes.
Infrared saunas help by increasing circulation through heat, promoting sweating, and potentially aiding in detox.
Why we use Red Light Therapy at Re Place
At Re Place, our goal is effective, low-effort wellness that fits your life. Red Light Therapy is:
Fast – just 10 minutes
Non-invasive – no heat, sweat, or recovery time, it’s literally just in and out.
Powerful – benefits skin, energy, mood, sleep, and recovery
Flexible – pairs perfectly with PEMF, Body Rolling, or Somadome
We use one of the most powerful full-body Red Light panel available — meaning you get more impact, in less time.
In summary
If you want deep cellular regeneration, glowing skin, and better energy — Red Light is your best choice.
If you’re looking for a heat-based detox experience, an infrared sauna might suit you.
