The Anti-Aging Effects of Infrared Heat
The incredibly knowledgeable Dr. Howard Murad says, “Aging is a fact of life. Looking your age is not.” We couldn’t agree more! Here at FIT, we’re always sharing anti-aging tips and tricks, and we know we aren’t alone. Sales of anti-aging remedies are at an all-time high, and many will try anything they can get their hands on to improve their appearance and overall wellness. But did you know that infrared heat can positively affect the signs of aging? In fact, infrared heat has been an anti-aging tool for many years! As we age our bodies change and the collagen and elastin our skin produces lessen. This, along with exposure to environmental toxins allows for wrinkles and creases to take hold. We may also notice weight gain, stubborn cellulite, arthritis, body pain, hair loss, cold intolerance, insomnia and slow healing. Many of these ailments can be attributed to a low body temperature, poor circulation, high toxicity levels and more. And this is where the benefits of infrared heat come in.
Graceful Aging with the Help of Infrared
Increased Circulation and the Increase of Blood Flow
An infrared session can increase blood flow to vital organs and muscles. As you may know, blood flow is necessary for our organs and muscles to receive oxygen. Blood circulation and flow are important factors in human wellness because the blood supplies oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues and cells. Red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes, carry oxygen to the organs, tissues, and cells in the body and perform an important function of controlling the release of a compound known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The benefits of increased blood circulation include passive exercise for the heart muscle and conditioning for the blood vessels. “ATP is the energy molecule of the living organism that transports chemical energy within cells for metabolism,” says Dr. Aaron Flickstein, our Clinical Director. “Erythrocytes release ATP when they arrive in a region of tissue where the oxygen need is increased, such as an exercising muscle. Thus, increased blood flow helps the organs and cells to receive more oxygen from which to make more ATP, improving your metabolism. The benefits of increased blood circulation include passive exercise for the heart muscle and conditioning for the blood vessels.” Therefore, infrared heat can improve problems that arise from poor blood flow which can have an adverse effect on aging. “Passively experiencing immersion in infrared radiation gives you similar results as from workout regimes that increase blood flow to vital organs and muscles,” says Flickstein. Additionally, our blood flow and blood pressure can contribute to the aging of our brains. “Increasing blood circulation leads to many beneficial effects upon the human body, such as promoting cell growth and organ functions, rejuvenation of skin, and maintenance of healthy blood pressure,” says Flickstein. “The oxygen supply from blood flow is critical for the brain to maintain its cognitive functions.”
Rejuvenating the Skin
Taking care of your skin is the way to keep your youthful glow. How do we know? A study on the effects of infrared on skin photo-aging and pigmentation investigated how infrared affects the collagen and elastin production in dermal fibroblasts. The study group consisted of 20 female patients who were experiencing mild to moderate facial wrinkles and hyperpigmented lesions. These patients were exposed to infrared daily for six months with evaluations every-four-weeks. So, what did the researchers find? They noticed that the content of the collagen and elastin produced by the fibroblasts had increased and that all patients reported improvements in skin texture. Additionally, some patients saw improvements in their skin tone leading researchers to the conclusion that infrared heat can be a safe and efficient treatment for aging skin. FIT Tip: The FIT Booster Spray contains hydrating, anti-aging, slimming and toning ingredients to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as improve the overall feel and appearance of the skin. Skin rejuvenation at it’s finest!
The Effects of Detoxification
If you’ve done your research, you may be aware that the toxins we are exposed to each day can become lodged in our skin and bodies. Though it may sound scary, there are ways to release them such as infrared induced sweating. A common concern is an excess of acids in our system. These may include cholesterol, fatty acid, and uric acid, which can contribute to health concerns. How can you lower the acidity in your system? Some medical professionals recommend infrared immersion in addition to using alkaline supplements. Experts say that infrared therapy can increase circulation to help the blood in arteries efficiently transport and excrete acidic toxins. Another way infrared detoxification helps combat the appearance of aging? By stimulation of tissue cell production and regeneration to increase cellular metabolism, oxygenation of tissue and blood flow. This, in turn, can have a positive effect on wrinkles, blotchy pigmentation, and skin elasticity. With all the incredible benefits listed above, infrared sessions can and will quickly become your favorite anti-aging tool! By simply relaxing in the soothing heat you can achieve the beautiful toned and tightened complexion you desire. Infrared immersion is a safe and effective way to increase blood flow and circulation, improve the appearance of wrinkles and skin texture as well as detoxify the body. Infrared sessions may not lessen the number of candles on your birthday cake, but they sure can improve your wellness and the appearance of your skin to help you look and feel younger.