Infrared light is a natural part of sunlight. It is the portion of the sun’s energy that we feel as warmth.

Although it is invisible to the human eye, it plays an important role in supporting life on earth, including helping plants grow.

Infrared sits just beyond the red portion of the visible light spectrum and makes up a significant portion of sunlight.

There are three primary types of infrared light: near, mid, and far. Each has different wavelengths and penetration depths. Near infrared penetrates more superficially and is primarily absorbed in the skin. Mid and far infrared reach deeper into the body where they are associated with warming tissues such as muscles and joints.

Infrared heat gently raises the body’s core temperature and supports circulation and relaxation. On a cellular level, infrared has been studied for its ability to support mitochondrial activity, which helps produce ATP. This is the energy used by cells for repair and day to day function. These light waves stimulate mitochondria in your cells to produce ATP, the energy currency that allows for cellular repair.

Widely used in medical and therapeutic settings, infrared is sometimes used to provide gentle warming for newborns.