Why You Should Consider Adding an Infrared Mat to Your Wellness Stack
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There are certain things that we've all been told to expect as the years go on: wrinkles, thinning hair, general aches and pains. But just as beauty tech innovations of recent years have begun to help us keep a healthier, bouncier complexion and stave off excess hair shedding , so too has technology stepped up to help banish those little creaks and twinges that can come with everyday life.
One wellness goodie that has captured attention lately: the infrared mat .
Top Infrared Mats of 2026
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T&C-Approved: HigherDose Infrared PEMF Mat
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Best Portable: HigherDose Infrared PEMF Go Mat
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Best Under $500: HealthyLine Far Infrared Heating Pad
Working along the same lines as an at-home infrared sauna blanket , "an infrared mat is a therapeutic tool designed to emit far infrared light that heats the body's core temperature when you lay on it," explains Katie Kaps , co-founder and co-CEO of the wellness brand, HigherDose . The heated pads are typically also equipped with crystals, such as jade or amethyst, which are said to deepen the benefits of infrared therapy and promote a relaxing experience.
"As our daily life bombards us with stimuli, stress and toxins, everyone can benefit from counteracting these health challenges through a holistic infrared device," says fellow co-founder and co-CEO Lauren Berlingeri . "Whether sleep, stress, or mood enhancement is your goal, infrared mats are all-in-one healing device that are safe and easy to use."
Infrared is also popular for those who want to focus on the lymphatic system. Lisa Levitt Gainsley, a certified lymphedema therapist, manual lymphatic drainage practitioner, and author of The Book of Lymph, explains that infrared biomats and saunas penetrate deep into the body as opposed to superficially, which aids natural detoxification process similar to the way your lymphatic system flushes out toxins, heavy metals, and environmental pollutants. "Infrared devices can help increase microcirculation to reduce the buildup of excess foreign bodies in the lymph system," she says. "Studies have shown infrared saunas also help reduce inflammation by improving collateral lymph circumfluence, thereby promoting healthy lymphatic flow."
So why reach for an infrared biomat as opposed to a sauna? Levitt Gainsley explains it succinctly: "Many people don't have the space (or pocketbook) for a sauna. The main function is to bathe the entire body in infrared light and warmth that is deeply relaxing." Her pro tip? Note the temperature calibration. "When turned up high you can break a sweat which allows your body to excrete accumulated toxic compounds. I often recommend turning the mat to a lower temperature (once it's heated up) so you can stay on it longer and drop into the parasympathetic state. This setting is beneficial for people who are at risk of lymphedema or whose skin is sensitive to extreme temperature changes or if you have a condition that limits your ability to exercise—it's a great way to increase lymphatic microcirculation."
She adds that the benefits, both mental and physical from use of an infrared body mat, can be instant. "One of the reasons I love it is that it takes my muscle tension away in just 15 minutes! It's so relaxing, I often fall asleep and then jump right into bed and feel completely rejuvenated the next day."
And for her clients? "It's not just a gentle way to assist the body's natural detoxification process, similar to lymphatic massage, but for people who are sensitive to topical heat, you can safely reap the benefits of the infrared mat because it distributes heat evenly and penetrates deeper into your cells rather than just superficially."
If you're looking to incorporate some infrared treatment into your routine, whether for relaxation, muscle soothing, or lymphatic circulation, we've tracked down some of the best, pro- and editor-loved infrared biomats on the market.
HigherDose Infrared PEMF Mat
According to Kaps and Berlingeri, the HigherDose Infrared PEMF Mat combines the healing power of infrared heat with crystal healing and science-backed Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy, which helps stimulate cell repair and regeneration.
"These technologies synergize by sending magnetic energy and healing infrared into the body," says Kaps. "This activates your body's innate healing processes, resulting in lower inflammation, increased energy—all while leaving you feeling relaxed and grounded."
T&C 's Digital Style Directer Roxanne Adamiyatt vouches for the results, saying , "Though I can't make any claims that it will heal you of chronic ailments, it really does make a noticeable impact on my morning. ... I notice that I don't feel quite as sharp on the mornings that I skip, and further more, I definitely feel achier."
HigherDose Infrared PEMF Go Mat
All the technology of the full-size HigherDose mat listed above—but in a mini version for travel or your WFH station. Genius.
HealthyLine Advanced Infrared Heating Pad
Constructed with 21 functional layers, including crushed natural amethyst, tourmaline, and jade gemstones, the HealthyLine infrared mat relaxes the body while alleviating aches and pains and reducing stress. The device also has built-in phyton lights, which aid in collagen production, and comes in five sizes, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
UTK Far Infrared Natural Jade and Tourmaline Heating Pad
If chronic back pain is a common issue, this portable heating pad with jade and tourmaline stones generate negative ions, which can soothe sore muscles and discomfort and boost your mood in a few minutes flat.
HealthyLine Far Infrared Heating Pad
This full-size option offers it all at under $300: infrared therapy to temporarily relieve minor muscle and joint pain, hot stone therapy to increase blood circulation, and negative ions for sleep regulation.
UTK Far Infrared Heating Pad for Neck and Shoulder and Back Pain Relief
The upper back, shoulders, traps, and neck are often one of the first places on the body where stress is felt. This customizable wrap emits soothing warmth that effectively melts away tension in that area.
Do infrared mats really work?
Most infrared mats harness the healing powers of infrared heat, crystal therapy, and negative ions to heat the body's core temperature, while promoting faster recovery. Notable benefits include reduced inflammation and stress, improved sleep, and nervous system regulation.
Some also feature PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) to stimulate cell repair and regeneration. As Berlingeri points out, "Depending on the level of hertz, PEMF frequency can hack brainwave states of alpha, theta, delta and beta to induce a physiological response."
How long should you use an infrared mat?
How long one should use an infrared mat depends on the specific mat and your own heat tolerance. Kaps and Berlingeri recommend consulting with a doctor if you're pregnant or have a chronic condition.
Meet the experts
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Katie Kaps is the co-founder and co-CEO of HigherDose. She previously worked in investment banking, venture capital, and held CEO roles in startups prior to launching HigherDose.
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Lauren Berlingeri is the co-founder and co-CEO of HigherDose. She also isalso a certified holistic nutritionist, health coach, and TV presenter.
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Lisa Levitt Gainsley is certified lymphedema therapist, manual lymphatic drainage practitioner, author, educator, and speaker.
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