When you think about infrared therapy—whether it’s on a treadmill, with a body roller, or in one of our advanced wellness pods—you’re probably imagining the benefits: improved skin health, reduced pain, and that amazing feeling of relaxation. But here’s something most people don’t realize: the clothes you wear during these sessions can make or break your results.
Yes, really. Let me explain.
Infrared therapy works by sending heat and light deep into your skin and muscles. It’s not just about feeling warm; it’s about improving blood flow, boosting collagen, and detoxifying your body through sweat. But if you’re wearing the wrong kind of fabric, that powerful infrared energy might not even reach your skin. Worse, your skin might end up irritated, and nobody wants that.
The Incredible Science of Infrared Therapy
Before we dive into fabrics, let’s quickly talk about what makes infrared therapy so unique. Unlike regular heat, infrared goes deeper. Think of it like sunshine without the harmful UV rays.
- It improves circulation by opening blood vessels and encouraging more oxygen flow to your skin and muscles.
- It helps your skin glow by stimulating collagen production, which reduces wrinkles and smooths out cellulite.
- It eases pain and stiffness by relaxing muscles and reducing inflammation.
- It boosts metabolism, making it easier to burn calories and detoxify your body.
Our infrared devices use Philips medical-grade infrared lights, designed for maximum effectiveness. So, if you’re coming in for a treadmill session or a body roller massage, you’re getting the gold standard in therapy.
But here’s where your clothing choices come in.
Why Fabrics Matter
Let’s think about this logically: Infrared therapy relies on heat and light reaching your skin. If your clothes are thick, reflective, or trap sweat, they’re acting like a barrier. Instead of letting the infrared do its job, your clothes are getting in the way.
Here’s what I tell every client:
- Go for breathable fabrics that let heat and light through. Think cotton blends, bamboo, or advanced athletic wear that wicks away sweat.
- Avoid shiny, synthetic materials. They might look sleek, but they tend to reflect infrared rays instead of absorbing them.
- Compression gear? Great, but only if it’s designed for infrared use, like neoprene that amplifies heat without irritating your skin.
But What About Skin Irritation?
If you’ve ever left a session feeling itchy or red, it’s probably not the infrared itself. Infrared therapy is super gentle. The culprit is usually friction, trapped sweat, or even pressure from certain fabrics.
Picture this: You’re on an infrared treadmill. You’re sweating (which is good—hello, detox!). But your leggings are made of a material that traps all that moisture against your skin. Combine that with the heat, and your pores can get clogged or irritated. It’s like a recipe for discomfort.
The same thing can happen with body rollers. These machines apply gentle pressure to your skin to boost lymphatic drainage and circulation. If your clothes are too tight or made from rough material, it’s no surprise if your skin gets a little cranky.
How to Make Every Session Better
Here’s what I’d recommend if we were chatting before your next session:
- Dress Smart: Opt for fitted, but breathable clothing. Moisture-wicking fabrics are a game-changer. They keep you dry and comfortable, no matter how much you sweat.
- Hydrate Like You Mean It: Infrared therapy makes you sweat more, which is great for detox, but your skin (and your body) needs water to stay happy.
- Shower Afterward: A quick rinse can wash away sweat and prevent irritation. Follow up with a lightweight moisturizer to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.
- Prep Your Skin: Skip heavy lotions or oils before your session—they can clog pores when combined with heat.
The Bottom Line
Your skin is one of the main beneficiaries of infrared therapy, so it makes sense to take care of it during and after your sessions. The right clothing isn’t just a detail; it’s a key part of the experience. When you dress thoughtfully, hydrate properly, and follow a good skincare routine, you’re setting yourself up for the best results.
At Body Lab Studio, we’re here to help you feel and look your best, whether you’re on the treadmill, using a body roller, or just enjoying a wellness pod. If you ever have questions about how to prepare for your session, our team is always ready to share tips tailored just for you.
Remember, infrared therapy isn’t just about the moment—it’s about long-term wellness. And with a little attention to detail, you’ll feel the benefits in every part of your life.
Fabric Choices and Infrared Therapy
While there isn’t specific research on the optimal fabric choices for infrared therapy, we can draw on existing knowledge about fabric properties and their impact on heat transfer and moisture-wicking:
- Breathable Fabrics: Fabrics like cotton, bamboo, and performance blends (polyester and spandex) are ideal as they allow moisture to evaporate, preventing skin irritation and discomfort.
- Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: These fabrics, often used in athletic wear, draw moisture away from the skin, keeping it dry and comfortable.
- Avoidance of Synthetic and Tight-Fitting Fabrics: Synthetic fabrics can trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort and potential skin irritation. Tight-fitting clothing can restrict blood flow and hinder the benefits of infrared therapy.
By considering these factors and incorporating the suggested fabric choices, individuals can optimize their infrared therapy experience and maximize its benefits.
Athleisure Wear and Infrared Therapy: What You Need to Know
Athleisure brands like Lululemon have revolutionized workout gear with features like antimicrobial properties and odor protection, thanks to the incorporation of metallic fibers like silver or copper. While these advancements are excellent for everyday workouts, they raise important considerations when used with infrared therapy equipment.
The Connection Between Metallic Fibers and Infrared Equipment
At Body Lab Studio, our state-of-the-art infrared equipment—including infrared treadmills, body rollers, and wellness pods—relies on the interaction of infrared radiation with your skin to deliver benefits like enhanced circulation, detoxification, and muscle recovery. Here’s how metallic fibers in your clothing can impact your infrared experience:
- Interference with Infrared Penetration
Metallic fibers in clothing can reflect or block some of the infrared radiation, reducing the amount that reaches your skin. This could lower the effectiveness of the therapy, especially if deep tissue benefits are your goal. - Localized Heating Risks
Just like metallic fibers pose a risk in MRI suites, they can also absorb and retain heat during infrared sessions. This might create localized hot spots, leading to discomfort or even skin irritation if the heat becomes too concentrated. - Reduced Comfort
Infrared sessions are designed to promote relaxation and therapeutic benefits, but clothing with metallic fibers may trap heat unevenly, causing overheating or disrupting your comfort during the session.
What to Wear for Infrared Sessions at Body Lab Studio
To fully benefit from the incredible technology we offer, we recommend opting for lightweight, breathable, and infrared-friendly fabrics. Here are some tips:
- Choose Non-Metallic Fabrics: Look for clothing made from cotton, bamboo, or synthetic blends without metallic fibers. These materials allow optimal penetration of infrared radiation and promote a comfortable experience.
- Snug but Breathable Fit: Compression wear or snug-fitting garments (without metallic elements) ensure close contact with the skin, enhancing the effectiveness of devices like body rollers or infrared treadmills.
- Moisture-Wicking Materials: Athletic wear designed to wick away sweat keeps you dry and prevents irritation, especially during heated sessions.
Why Fabric Matters at Body Lab Studio
Our advanced infrared equipment is designed to work synergistically with your body. By wearing the right fabrics, you maximize the penetration of infrared radiation, ensuring optimal results—whether it’s improved circulation, detoxification, or muscle recovery.
(Include an image of someone in non-metallic athletic wear using an infrared body roller or treadmill, with a caption: “The right clothing enhances the benefits of infrared therapy.”)
Final Note: Stay Safe and Comfortable
While metallic fibers are great for odor protection and antimicrobial benefits in daily workouts, they can hinder the effectiveness and safety of infrared equipment. For your next session at Body Lab Studio, leave the metallic threads at home and embrace breathable, non-metallic athletic wear for the best experience.
Ready to see the difference infrared therapy can make? Book your session today and feel the glow!
