Written by Shandi Nichelle | Licensed Cosmetologist · 20+ Years · 100,000+ Professional Hours | Founder, FREEWELL
Infrared saunas are having a moment and for good reason. The deep, penetrating heat works differently than a traditional sauna, warming your body from the inside rather than just heating the air around you. But that same deep heat that makes infrared so therapeutic also raises real questions about what it does to your hair.
Here's the full guide, based on 20 years of professional cosmetology experience, on how to care for your hair in an infrared sauna the right way.
Why Infrared Sauna Hair Care Is Different
Infrared heat is gentler on the air temperature, but it still affects hair and scalp. The longer sessions typical of infrared use mean more cumulative heat exposure. The scalp heats up, pores open, sebum production can increase, and hair cuticles become more porous. If you're not protecting your hair, this repeated cycle of heat and moisture fluctuation leads to dryness, dullness, and breakage over time.
The flip side: that same cuticle-opening process is why infrared sauna sessions are an incredible opportunity for a deep hair treatment. Heat equals penetration. When you apply a quality infrared sauna hair oil, you're turning the sauna into a professional treatment tool.
The FREEWELL Pre-Sauna Routine
The routine is simple. Before your infrared session, apply 1 oz of Power Gloss to dry, clean, or dirty hair. wherever it's needed most. Work it through from root to end, paying attention to the scalp + ends. Then enjoy your sauna. Let the heat do the work while you do yours.
Leave Power Gloss on for 2–24 hours, meaning you can leave it on during your full session and beyond. Some people do their sauna, run errands, and wash their hair later. Others apply it before bed after a late-night session and wash it out in the morning. The flexibility is intentional.
When you're ready to wash out:
Shampoo 2–3 times, then condition as normal.
➜ Shop Power Gloss - Built for the Sauna: https://www.livefreewell.com/products/power-gloss
All 7 Benefits of Power Gloss in Your Infrared Routine
- Thickness: Castor oil strengthens from root to tip
- Shine: Sweet almond oil and rosehip oil restore a glass-like finish
- Repair: Damaged cuticles get support from antioxidant-rich rosehip
- Moisture: Deep hydration locked in by jojoba and almond
- Saltwater + chlorine shield: Perfect for sauna-swimmers
- Sauna protectant: Defends against heat dehydration during your session
- Scalp balance: ACV restores pH, and jojoba balances both oily and dry conditions
Is Power Gloss Safe for Color-Treated Hair?
Yes, 100% color safe. Power Gloss contains no sulfates, no harsh chemicals, and no ingredients that strip or alter color. Bring it into your infrared routine without any worry.
Who Should Use Power Gloss in the Sauna?
Everyone. Power Gloss is formulated for all hair types and all genders. Whether you have fine, curly, coarse, relaxed, color-treated, or natural hair, the formula works. Sauna enthusiasts, athletes, swimmers, postpartum moms, and busy professionals all use Power Gloss for one simple reason: it works for real life.
Your Infrared Sauna Hair Care Checklist
- Apply 1 oz Power Gloss before your session
- Work through hair and scalp (roots to ends)
- Enter your infrared sauna as normal
- Leave on for 2–24 hours post-session
- Shampoo 2–3 times, then condition
- Repeat weekly for cumulative benefits
➜ Start Your Sauna Hair Ritual - Shop Power Gloss: https://www.livefreewell.com/products/power-gloss
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FREEWELL donates 1% of all revenue to Magdalene House, an organization supporting survivors.