Submitted by Dr. Dana Gleeson

Ever since the beginning of time we have searched for the fountain of youth. Although there may be one out there somewhere to find, in the meantime, we have been given the gift of Far Infrared Sauna Therapy (F.I.R.S.T.)

As we age, certain components of our skin begin to breakdown and degenerate setting the stage for the appearance of fine lines, furrows, folds, sagging skin and ultimately wrinkles. The two main offenders are collagen and elastin. When they are in great supply they give our skin its healthy tone and firmness.

According to research performed by the American Academy of Dermatology, they state that as skin cells age, they begin to produce an increased amount of unstable oxygen molecules otherwise known as free radicals. These free radicals attack and damage the healthy cell membranes, proteins and DNA. Normally in younger people the skin cells can produce their own antioxidants to combat the damaging free radicals but in older skin cells unfortunately we lose that ability. Collagen is a protein in our skin cells that is responsible for giving our skin its youthful tautness and suppleness. It has a high degree of elasticity. Collagen is the essential protein that is used by the cells to repair damaged tissue and to replace old tissue. As we age this is one of the skin cells' proteins that are attacked by the increased amounts of free radicals. This causes the collagen fibres to become inflexible instead of being able to slide and flex thus our skin begins to look older.

How can Far Infrared Sauna Therapy (F.I.R.S.T.) help?

Infrared treatments can have amazing affects on aging skin in so many ways. Infrared light waves create increased circulation to the skin cells by generating new capillaries. This increased blood supply carries more oxygen and nutrients to the cells and carry away waste products. This allows the cells to function at a more optimal level and therefore flush out the number of increased free radicals that are damaging the collagen.

Far Infrared Sauna Therapy (F.I.R.S.T.) actually stimulates the production of collagen which will help the skin to retain its elasticity. It also helps stimulate the production of cells called fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are a type of cell that works to constantly replenish the skins production of collagen and elastin.

Besides directly affecting the skin cells, Far Infrared Sauna Therapy (F.I.R.S.T.) works through several other avenues to assist in slowing down the aging process. It stimulates and creates a stronger immune system, it provides a full body detoxification and it promotes relaxation and comfort thus reducing stress.

What could be better than a healthy, non-invasive therapy that could give you firmer skin, smoothing of wrinkles, and a decrease in blemishes and sun damage spots? As I said, it truly is a gift.