It was 9 a.m. on a Friday, and I was sweating like I’d just finished an intense hot Pilates class—except I was lying in bed, listening to music, wrapped in my HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket.
This blanket is one of the most talked-about wellness gadgets right now, promising a full-body detox and a sense of well-being that’s hard to measure but easy to feel. Fans of holistic health swear by it—including Gwyneth Paltrow, who called it a “10 out of 10” in a 2021 Vogue interview. “You just get in it and sweat,” she said. “You can be on your phone, tuck your arms in, meditate, or listen to a podcast.”
### HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
Price: $699 (but often on sale for $559 on Amazon)
Why We Love It: Loved by celebrities, athletes, and wellness experts, this is the most popular sauna blanket on the market. It uses infrared heat along with layers of crystal, charcoal, and clay to warm up to 175°F, promoting detoxification and stress relief. Just lie on a flat surface for 45 minutes and let it work its magic.
Key Features:
– Type: Sauna blanket
– Heat Range: 68°F to 175°F
– Best For: Detoxing, boosting mood, glowing skin, reducing stress, improving circulation
– How to Use: Wear long clothes and socks, preheat for 10 minutes, then relax inside for 30-45 minutes. Follow with a cold shower.
– Size: 72.5 x 32 inches
The idea for the blanket came from HigherDOSE co-founders Katie Kaps and Lauren Berlingeri in 2017, who wanted to make infrared sauna therapy portable.
### How It Works
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose explains that the blanket emits far-infrared radiation (FIR), a type of light that heats the body from within, boosting circulation and sweating. The layers—infrared, amethyst/tourmaline (for negative ions), and charcoal/clay (for detox)—work together for even heat distribution.
### Benefits Over Traditional Saunas
Traditional saunas heat the air, but infrared saunas directly warm your body, mimicking the sun’s deep-penetrating rays. Dr. Liliana Lopez, DNP, FNP, notes that this deeper heat can aid muscle recovery, pain relief, and detoxification more effectively. Users often report clearer skin, reduced inflammation, and better sleep.
There’s also debate about whether infrared saunas help with calorie burning and weight loss—though results vary.
(Note: The original text was cut off, so I’ve summarized up to that point while keeping it natural and engaging.)My Experience With the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket
The bold claims about this sauna blanket made me excited to try it. When it arrived, I was surprised by how compact the packaging was, considering the blanket itself is over six feet long. Inside, I found the blanket neatly stored in a duffle bag-style travel case. Setting it up was simple—it’s lightweight, so I just laid it out on my bed (any flat, heat-resistant surface works).
You’re supposed to wear full-coverage clothing and socks (like leggings and a long-sleeve shirt) while using it. If you prefer to sweat without clothes, the brand offers a machine-washable organic cotton insert, which I highly recommend—it’s soft and makes cleanup much easier.
The blanket itself is made from non-toxic, water-resistant PU leather with an industrial-grade zipper for easy access. Inside, layers of amethyst, charcoal, and tourmaline are said to help balance electromagnetic fields. It heats up to 175°F, depending on your chosen setting (there are nine levels). Beginners are advised to start between levels 4-6 and gradually increase intensity.
Since I enjoy traditional saunas, I started at level 6. After selecting the heat setting and preheating for 10 minutes, I slipped in with the insert and a glass of ice water. The trickiest part was zipping myself in—the large zipper at the bottom takes some maneuvering while lying down. But once I was settled, it was smooth sailing. The founders recommend 30-45 minutes to allow your core temperature to rise enough for a good sweat.
Let me just say—this was one of the best sweat sessions I’ve ever had. At first, it didn’t feel hot enough, but around the 10-minute mark, the heat really kicked in. I’m not usually a heavy sweater, but I was surprised by how much I perspired. You’re supposed to keep your arms inside, but I occasionally took them out when it got too intense (hence the ice water). I’d also suggest keeping the room cool or a window open to balance the heat.
It’s incredibly easy to use—one of the most convenient wellness gadgets I’ve tried. All you have to do is lie there. I like to use mine for a full hour (though the brand advises against going longer) while relaxing—watching Netflix, calling a friend, or listening to a podcast. You could even nap if you set a timer.
When my session ended, I unzipped myself, dripping with sweat. It might sound dramatic, but I immediately felt detoxed—lighter, less bloated, and with that post-workout glow. My muscles felt relaxed…I left feeling amazing—more energized, clear-headed, and relaxed than when I started. I was hooked right away. If I wasn’t advised to use it only three times a week (and trying to preserve my silk press), I’d use it daily. Cleaning is easy—I just wiped it down with a Lysol wipe and tossed the insert in the wash.
### Is the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket Worth It?
Absolutely, if you love saunas and want the benefits at home. The convenience is unbeatable. Unlike shared saunas, this is personal, reducing exposure to germs. It’s perfect for fitting infrared therapy into a busy schedule. Experts praise HigherDOSE for blending science-backed tech with stylish wellness design. Honestly, there’s no better way to sweat it out.
### Everything You Need to Know
#### What are the benefits of an infrared sauna?
Infrared saunas use light to heat your body directly, offering a gentler yet effective experience compared to traditional saunas. Benefits include better circulation, reduced inflammation, faster recovery, clearer skin, and stress relief. It also boosts collagen, promotes deep relaxation, and supports heart health—without straining your cardiovascular system.
#### Are there any downsides?
Generally safe, but potential side effects include dehydration, overheating, or lightheadedness if sessions are too long or you’re not hydrated. Those with health conditions (especially heart issues or heat sensitivity) should check with a doctor first. Pregnant women should avoid it.
#### How often should you use it?
Beginners can start once a week, working up to 3-4 times for detox. Don’t exceed an hour daily, and stay hydrated. For recovery or chronic pain, some may benefit from 4-5 sessions weekly—always listen to your body and consult a doctor.
#### Infrared blanket vs. steam sauna—which is better?
It depends on your goals. Infrared blankets penetrate deeper, aiding muscle recovery and detox. Steam saunas hydrate, open pores, and help with congestion. Infrared is great at home—compact, quiet, and won’t ruin your hairstyle.
#### How often should you clean it?
Clean it regularly to stay hygienic and prolong its life. Wipe it down after each use and wash the insert as needed.After each use, clean the blanket and let it air out for 10 minutes before storing it in a cool place. The brand also provides a gentle, non-toxic cleaner for extra care.
Meet the Experts
Katie Kaps and Lauren Berlingeri are the co-founders of HigherDOSE.
Dr. Liliana Lopez, DNP, FNP, is a nurse practitioner and founder of En Su Casa Primary Health Care in Spring Valley, New York.
Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a leading cosmetic and medical dermatologist at Newport Beach Dermatology & Plastic Surgery, specializing in facial rejuvenation, and a clinical instructor of dermatology at Cornell.