There is something that’s been lighting up (literally) every wellness corner in Virginia Beach — red light skin therapy and infrared saunas. If you’ve been anywhere near Shore Drive or Hilltop lately, you’ve probably seen new spa spots boasting glowing red rooms and cozy infrared pods that promise to make you feel like a rejuvenated version of yourself.
But here’s the question almost everyone asks: How often should you actually use red light therapy or an infrared sauna to see real results?
The truth is, it’s not one-size-fits-all. But let’s break it down in a way that feels like chatting with your favorite esthetician after a beach day — relaxed, real, and full of good advice.
So… How Often Is Too Often?
Here’s the deal — red light therapy (RLT) and infrared saunas both work by using heat or light to encourage your body to heal, detox, and glow from within. But they do it differently.
- Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of light that penetrate your skin to boost collagen, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.
- Infrared saunas heat you from the inside out, helping you sweat out toxins, ease sore muscles, and even boost metabolism.
If you’re just starting out red light therapy near me, most local wellness experts — like those Sundays Sun Spa Wellness here in Virginia Beach — suggest starting with 2–3 sessions per week.
After a few weeks, once your body adjusts, you can safely increase to 4–5 sessions a week (especially if your goals are skin rejuvenation or muscle recovery). Some regulars even go daily, but that’s usually for athletes or people managing chronic pain.
The key is consistency, not overdoing it. Think of it like working out — one session won’t change your life, but regular use? That’s where the magic happens.
Pairing Red Light Therapy with Infrared Sauna
Now here’s where it gets really good — using both.
Many Virginia Beach spas are combining these two in what they call “dual sessions.” You spend time in the sauna to open your pores and get your blood flowing, then follow it with a few minutes of red light therapy to calm your skin and lock in that refreshed, dewy look.
If you’re short on time, you can even find hybrid machines that offer infrared heat + red light panels as TheraSauna infrared saunas in one cozy pod. (Perfect for post-yoga or after a long day at the beach when you just need to reset.)
What You’ll Notice When You Stick With It
Within the first few sessions, you’ll probably feel more energized, sleep better, and notice less puffiness or soreness.
After a couple of weeks, your skin starts to look brighter and more even — kind of like you’ve been drinking more water or sleeping better (even if you haven’t). And after a month or two of consistent sessions? That’s when the glow becomes your new normal.
Locals say it’s especially helpful in the winter when our skin gets dull or during humid Virginia summers when our pores need a detox.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind Before You Go
- Hydrate. Always drink a ton of water before and after your session — you’ll sweat more than you think, especially in an infrared sauna.
- Don’t wear heavy makeup or lotions. They can block light absorption. Clean, dry skin is best for RLT.
- Start slow. Even if your spa offers unlimited sessions, ease your way in. Your body needs time to adapt.
- Listen to your body. If you feel lightheaded, take a break. These treatments should make you feel good, not drained.
Virginia Beach Humidity Tip
If you’re doing sessions in the summer, keep in mind — humidity can make your body feel warmer faster during infrared sessions. Some local spas adjust their heat levels or offer “cool down” towels infused with eucalyptus or aloe. It’s those small, thoughtful touches that make spots like Sundays Sun Spa Wellness so popular.
FAQs
Q: How many times per week should I use red light therapy?
If you’re new, start with 2–3 times weekly. For deeper results (like anti-aging or pain relief), 4–5 sessions are ideal. Consistency matters more than duration.
Q: Can I use red light therapy and an infrared sauna on the same day?
Absolutely! In fact, using them back-to-back can amplify results. Do the sauna first to warm up your body, then follow with red light therapy to calm and rejuvenate your skin.
Q: How long should a red light therapy session last?
Most sessions are around 10–20 minutes. That’s enough time for your skin to absorb the light and stimulate cell repair.
Q: What should I wear for infrared sauna sessions?
Loose, breathable clothing or even just a towel works best. You want your skin exposed so you can sweat freely.
Q: Is red light therapy safe for sensitive skin?
Yes! It’s non-invasive and gentle. Just make sure you remove any skincare products that could react to light.
Q: Do I need to prep like I would for a spray tan?
Kind of! Clean skin is key — no oils, deodorants, or heavy lotions. And hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. That glow comes from within, after all.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re chasing better skin, muscle recovery, or just a little peace after a long day, red light therapy and infrared saunas are like your personal reset buttons. And in Virginia Beach, where the lifestyle is all about wellness and salt air, they fit right in.
So next time you’re craving that refreshed, beachy glow — skip the sunburn and head to your favorite local spa. A few sessions under the red lights or in a soothing infrared cocoon might just become your new self-care obsession.
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