Latest news with #LATimesStudios
Los Angeles Times
2 hours ago
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Layering Actives for Radiant Summer Skin Without the Burn
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. If you kicked off summer convinced your skin would finally cooperate, you're in good company. Fast-forward a few sticky weeks, and here we are with clogged pores, pop-up breakouts, and a lineup of serums we were sure would work somehow. So, before you add yet another bottle to your lineup, take a breath. The real fix is smarter pairings, not more products. Potent players like retinoids, acids, and vitamin C, while still deserving of being included in your routine, might just need to sit on the bench now and then. As dermatologist Dr. Hope Mitchell likes to tell her patients, 'Less isn't lazy; it's strategic.' She suggests using actives two or three evenings tops. In simpler terms, your skin this summer needs balance: just enough potency to see results but plenty of hydration and barrier protection to keep irritation at bay. Think of hydration as a launchpad for every other step in your routine, especially once the temps hit the nineties. Sure, hyaluronic acid gets plenty of love, but polyglutamic acid quietly outperforms it, holding about 5× more water and leaving behind a whisper-thin film that keeps moisture from evaporating. A 2023 clinical paper even noted PGA boosts barrier proteins like filaggrin and involucrin, exactly what you need when AC + sun tag-team your face. Another sleeper hit? Snow mushroom extract (Tremella fuciformis). It looks a lot like HA on paper, yet its molecules sink a bit deeper, grabbing water, calming redness, and adding a little antioxidant insurance. If you want to test the hype, Volition's Snow Mushroom Water Serum is a solid place to start: quick drink of hydration, no stickiness, nice under makeup. Think of ceramides as the glue holding your skin cells together. When the skin is stripped by UV or harsh actives, ceramide levels drop, which makes it more vulnerable. Ceramide-containing formulations have been shown to significantly improve skin hydration, barrier integrity, and reduce transepidermal water loss across various skin types, including eczema-prone skin. Opt for a ceramide-rich moisturizer like ILLIYOON Ceramide Ato Cream, which includes niacinamide to support redness reduction and strengthen the skin barrier. Retinol is effective but not always summer-friendly because it can increase sun sensitivity and can irritate already reactive skin. Enter bakuchiol, a botanical extract that offers similar results without the harsh side effects. Bakuchiol, according to clinical trials, applied twice daily, can reduce wrinkles and pigmentation as effectively as retinol, but with significantly less irritation. That makes it a smart summer swap for smoother skin without stress. Your skin shifts with your hormones: cycle syncing skincare accounts for that. During the follicular phase, the skin can tolerate exfoliants and vitamin C. As estrogen drops and progesterone spikes in the luteal phase, sensitivity increases, requiring gentler, hydrating products. When topical hydration isn't cutting it, injectable moisturizers can deliver water-attracting hyaluronic acid deep into the skin. These microdroplet treatments, Skinboosters like Juvéderm SkinVive and Restylane, can improve texture, elasticity, and hydration from within, without altering facial structure. Think of your routine like your curated playlist, every track picked with purpose but backed by science. Hydration and Barrier Primer – Atobarrier365 Hydro Cera + HA Serum combines five types of hyaluronic acid with ceramides and cholesterol to deliver deep hydration while actively supporting barrier repair. Its lightweight, gel-like texture makes it ideal under actives. Barrier-Reinforcing Moisture – O HUI Miracle Moisture Ceramide Cream uses something called Chiffon Ceramide, which restores and locks in moisture. It's a K-beauty staple formulated to replenish skin post-actives and sun exposure, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin. Smart Active Alternative – Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum offers retinol-like results without the irritation, which is perfect for skin needing a gentle anti-aging. Invisible Mineral SPF – Colorescience No‑Show Mineral SPF 50 finishes the routine with broad-spectrum zinc oxide protection that disappears into every skin tone. With this evidence-driven lineup, your skin stays resilient, balanced, and visibly healthier, no overthinking required. Click here to learn more about Dr. Hope Mitchell
Los Angeles Times
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
AI Transforms Brand Storytelling at Cannes Lions
LA Times Studios and .monks collaborated at the Cannes Lions festival to host a series of discussions on the transformative impact of AI on brands in a rapidly evolving economy. Held from June 16-20 at Les Monks Cafe, these sessions explored how AI-driven orchestration influences efficiency, transparency, and awareness throughout the brand journey, from ideation to delivery. One key panel, 'Brand is Back: Brand Storytelling & Consumer Impact,' brought together industry leaders to discuss the power of brands in shaping culture and influencing consumers. Anna Magzanyan, president of LA Times Studios, opened the discussion by emphasizing the importance of impactful storytelling. Lauren Wood, president of The Yogi Foundation, highlighted the link between storytelling and community development, stating, 'We must bridge storytelling and regeneration to create real change.' Amy Powell, president of VICE Studios, addressed the challenges brands face in resonating with skeptical audiences. Ziad Ahmed, head of Next Gen at UTA, underscored the power of personal narratives in branding, while Adam Faze, co-founder of Gymnasium, discussed adapting storytelling for the digital landscape. The session concluded with an exploration of how authentic brand stories can build deeper consumer connections and drive meaningful impact. In a fireside chat titled 'Fusion Is the New F Word,' Kristen Berke, VP of entertainment and branded content partnerships at LA Times Studios, moderated a discussion with Joe Paluska, CMO, and Jennine Willett, creative director, from Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS). They explored the transformative potential of fusion energy and how to make this complex topic accessible. Paluska humorously set the stage, stating, 'Fusion is the new F hot AF,' before tracing fusion research back to Sir Arthur Eddington's 1920 theory that the sun's energy comes from fusion. Willett clarified fusion as 'the power of the sun and the stars,' emphasizing its clean, limitless, and safe nature. She explained how it 'creates a star and holds it inside' through plasma at extreme temperatures. The panel discussed the historical challenges of scaling fusion and the recent $9 billion investment in research. Paluska and Willett shared their vision for using innovative marketing to demystify fusion energy, aiming to spark public curiosity and drive change in clean energy. The conversation highlighted the urgent need to communicate fusion's benefits for broader public understanding. 'The Future of Creativity & AI' panel featured a compelling conversation between Sir Martin Sorrell, executive chairman of S4 Capital, and founder and CEO of This fireside chat explored how artificial intelligence can transform the creative landscape, highlighting how brands and leaders can engage audiences and influence cultural narratives. The discussion emphasized the intersection of technology and imagination, showcasing how innovators can redefine collaboration and inspire change. Attendees learned about the democratization of knowledge, the evolution of creative processes, and how AI can enhance rather than replace human creativity. shared personal reflections on his upbringing, acknowledging his grandmother's legacy and his mother's sacrifices as a single parent. He expressed concern for his brother's education, noting, 'Everything you just learned in school probably won't apply moving forward, but you still have the fundamentals.' He highlighted the evolving role of women in society, stressing their leadership in empathy and compassion, which are urgently needed in AI. Describing himself as 'ambitious, audacious, curious, and hyper imaginative,' showcased his commitment to creativity and innovation. The session offered a thought-provoking perspective on the intersection of technology and creativity, underscoring the essential role of empathy and community in shaping a positive future. In 'Knowledge Is Power: The Real ROI of Media Transparency in the Era of AI,' panelists discussed the evolving landscape of media transparency and the necessity for real-time performance visibility in marketing. Moderated by Linda Cronin, EVP and global head of media at Monks, the panel included Meredith Zhang, measurement partner at TikTok; Millie Chu, senior director of media analytics at T-Mobile; and Jay Pattisall, VP and principal analyst at Forrester. They explored how CMOs need 'Bloomberg Terminal'-like tools for continuous insights into brand content, stressing that a lack of visibility could hinder success by 2025. Zhang emphasized that 'radical visibility' is essential for effective decision-making, comparing the need for media insights to financial decision-making tools. She noted challenges in measuring effectiveness, explaining that traditional metrics often fail to capture the nonlinear consumer journey, especially on platforms like TikTok. Chu supported this, stating that real-time media performance information is currently 'more idealistic than realistic.' She stressed that achieving effective transparency requires substantial investment in infrastructure and a commitment to data-driven insights. Pattisall advocated for a '360 view' of media performance, desiring 'more real-time MM' and 'full loop attribution' to assess how all marketing elements work together. The panel collectively underscored the growing importance of media transparency and the need for sophisticated measurement strategies in a rapidly evolving digital marketplace, concluding that without real-time insights, brands risk falling behind. This panel at Cannes explored how companies leverage AI for growth and efficiency, focusing on smart technology investments for business resilience. Lewis Smithingham, SVP of strategic industries at Monks, moderated the discussion with Bobby Mohr, VP of revenue at Twelve Labs; Matt Carter, head of industry at AWS; Jamie Allan, director of adtech & digital marketing industries at NVIDIA; and Christian Fraser, broadcaster and writer at the BBC. The panel addressed AI integration challenges and opportunities. Carter highlighted that 'around 80% of AI projects that fail do so not because of model performance, but because of the data foundations that they are built on.' He stressed the importance of centralizing and organizing accessible data, stating, 'You need to make that data accessible and interoperable,' to combine diverse data types effectively for AI initiatives. Mohr discussed Twelve Labs' video AI capabilities, emphasizing the need for brands to adopt cutting-edge technologies to streamline processes and enhance viewer experiences, warning that failure to do so risks falling behind. Allan noted that while data is abundant, its strategic organization is crucial, aligning with Carter's points on data readiness. Fraser highlighted the necessity for media companies to engage audiences personally, emphasizing AI's role in understanding preferences and tailoring content. The discussion also touched on misconceptions about data value, with panelists agreeing that not all data holds equal weight and focusing on high-ROI data is essential for effective AI strategies. The 'Playing in Perfect Sync: Orchestrating AI and Creative Intelligence' panel featured experts from Monks, NVIDIA, and AWS, focusing on the critical role of creative intelligence in marketing. Moderated by Bruce Biegel, senior managing partner at Winterberry Group, the discussion included Dave Carey, global EVP studio & embedded solutions at Monks; Matt Groshong, business development director for AdTech & MarTech at NVIDIA; Victoria Milo, SVP of media solutions & emerging technology at Monks; and Jon Williams, global head of agency partner development at AWS. The speakers highlighted how AI innovation and strategic partnerships enhance marketing operations and streamline the content supply chain, especially as marketers demand high-quality content delivered quickly. Carey noted that economic pressures for reduced spending and cost efficiency are driving the need for creative intelligence, pushing companies to adapt quickly to AI and automation. Groshong emphasized the rapid pace of technological advancement, stating, 'The speed at which technology is advancing today means that what you couldn't do last week even is now possible to do at a level that really surpasses what you were able to do even a month, two months ago,' underscoring the urgency of embracing change. Milo shared insights on collaborative team efforts and leveraging platforms like Meta, Google, and TikTok, which are pushing for more creative innovation to complement their algorithms. She stated that the demand for smarter, purpose-driven creative is an increasing requirement, fostering discussions about maximizing data and investing wisely in creative assets. Williams underscored the significance of personalization in driving business growth, asserting, 'The leaders in are growing at 10 points a year faster than laggards.' He explained that aligning the value of creative assets with audience interactions presents a profound opportunity for businesses to enhance their performance and outcomes. The panel emphasized the urgent need for enterprises to adopt more sophisticated, AI-driven creative strategies. By integrating technology and creativity, brands can enhance customer experiences and maintain brand integrity. The discussion highlighted that as technology evolves, creative work must adapt, focusing on collaboration and innovation. This panel focused on the evolving relationship between creativity and AI-driven automation in marketing workflows and how these innovations are transforming content production and reshaping team dynamics. Tanya Bogin, EVP and global head of studio at Monks, moderated the session, which included insights from Pat Murphy, founder and CEO at MurphyCobb; Hannah Elsakr, Intrapreneur for GenAI at Adobe; Olga Mykhaylenko, SVP of operations at Monks; and Christine Maguire, global VP at Tripadvisor. Mykhaylenko discussed the shift from individual creativity to collaborative team efforts, stating, 'First of all, creative ego is shifting from individuals to teams. Production is no longer the end of the line, but actually a part of the creative engine.' She emphasized that the creative process now resembles software development, requiring consultative discovery, rapid prototyping, and iterative testing. Elsakr highlighted the benefits of automation in reducing mundane tasks, stating, 'I think it removes the drudgery from creative cut that process in half.' Her comments underscored how AI enables teams to work more efficiently, freeing them to focus on strategic initiatives. Murphy noted how traditional roles within the creative process are transforming due to the need for immediate feedback and iteration. He pointed out that creative directors and collaborators must now wait for final results before assessing work, changing their role. Maguire echoed these sentiments, discussing how changing workflows require marketers to adapt and collaborate in new ways, increasing demand for agility and responsiveness. The discussion revealed a significant evolution in marketing, where AI enhances creativity, and teams are empowered to innovate and collaborate more effectively. In 'Timeless, Not Static: Evolving Brand Identity with Purpose,' moderated by Anna Magzanyan, president of LA Times Studios, industry leaders discussed how organizations can maintain their core identity while adapting to market changes. Speakers included Brendan Ripp, CEO of Pushly; Meridith Rojas, CMO of VidaCorp North America; and Robert Nathan Fried, CEO of Niagen Bioscience. Magzanyan opened, emphasizing that 'The most resilient brands aren't reinventing themselves every few years. They're actually evolving with clarity, tension, and purpose.' Ripp, with his digital publishing background, stated, 'Authenticity is a practice. It's not a tagline,' and noted how AI has changed audience expectations, remarking that Google is now 'an answer engine.' Rojas discussed launching MCO Beauty in the U.S., focusing on community. She emphasized the need for brands to be 'a very diligent listener' to consumer feedback. Fried offered a unique perspective on blending science and storytelling in brand identity, reinforcing that stories must resonate authentically to foster connection and trust. Their diverse experiences illustrated that by remaining attuned to audiences and values, brands can effectively navigate a dynamic marketplace. The 'Digital Alchemy: Transforming Experiences Through AI' panel, moderated by Anna Magzanyan, president of LA Times Studios, explored how leading companies use AI as a catalyst for cultural transformation. Industry leaders shared insights on AI's role in reshaping strategy, creativity, data, and growth in modern brand-building. Ganesha Rasiah, chief strategy officer at HP, highlighted AI's ability to enhance speed and decision-making through internal and external analysis, significantly saving time and bolstering strategic efforts. Patrick Marzullo, senior director of creative studio at Coinbase, discussed AI's vital integration with creativity, emphasizing its role in reshaping creative challenges and fostering collaborative innovation. Michael Cohen, chief data & analytics officer at Plus Company, echoed similar themes, noting AI's transformation of marketing through explainable, actionable insights and its importance in shaping effective strategies through a predictive intelligence platform. Karan Chetal, chief growth officer, technology services at Monks, contributed a relevant perspective on how AI-driven insights can enhance client engagement and empower sales teams, emphasizing AI's role in personalizing interactions at scale for measurable business growth. The panelists conveyed that thriving companies embrace innovation as part of their culture. They illustrated that AI augments – not replaces – human creativity and strategic thinking, providing valuable insights into navigating the evolving technological landscape while remaining grounded in core values. These nine discussions at Cannes Lions reinforced the critical importance of authenticity and innovative storytelling in an evolving landscape. Across panels, industry leaders emphasized that brands must forge genuine connections with consumers through impactful narratives while embracing new technologies to engage and inspire. By prioritizing transparency and collaboration, brands can navigate challenges and drive meaningful change, ultimately shaping cultural narratives and fostering deeper relationships with their audiences.
Los Angeles Times
6 days ago
- Los Angeles Times
The New Rules of Active Beauty for Summer Travel
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. If your carry-on is packed with TSA-friendly minis, climate-proof tints, and hair protectants that moonlight as frizz-fighters, you're already fluent in active beauty. As summer travel ramps up, so do the demands on your skin. From bone-dry airplane cabins to sweaty hikes and SPF reapplications by the pool, this season challenges your complexion like no other. Active beauty, a trend defined by skincare that flexes with your lifestyle, isn't just about surviving the elements; it's about thriving through them. Think of it as your skin's performance gear: clean, high-tech, breathable, and built to move. Whether you're navigating desert heat, post-facial inflammation, or just city pollution, your skincare shouldn't quit before you do. At the heart of active beauty is the idea that skin thrives when supported by barrier-strengthening, breathable formulations. Tata Harper, a pioneer in natural luxury skincare, breaks it down: 'Our products are formulated to support the skin barrier and use ingredients that work with the skin, not against it. We include emollients and seed oils rich in triglycerides and omega fatty acids to reinforce the skin's lipid layer.' This lipid layer is crucial in summer, when air travel, sun, and sweat can sabotage hydration and lead to inflammation. Tata's Hydrating Floral Essence is packed with hyaluronic acid and natural humectants, and is designed for just such conditions. Anastasia Beverly Hills just launched HydraPrime SPF 50, which delivers serious multitasking muscle. This hydrating sunscreen primes, protects, and perfects all skin tones with no white cast, making it ideal for travelers who want glow without guesswork. Shown to boost moisture by 57% and reduce fine lines, it's powered by niacinamide, ectoin, and beet root to hydrate and defend skin while improving tone and texture. When the heat index spikes and your skin is sandwiched between sunscreen layers and sweat, lighter textures are everything. Wyn Beauty's Featuring You Hydrating Skin Enhancing Tint is lightweight yet long-lasting, blending seamlessly, and won't clog pores even in humid, high-sweat situations. Tata Harper's Water Lock Moisturizer, Resurfacing Serum, and Repairative Moisturizer feature air-light textures that hydrate without suffocating pores. 'These products are formulated without silicones, so they don't sit on the skin or melt off in heat,' says Harper. 'Instead, they act like a second skin, hydrating and protecting without clogging.' In ultra-dry climates, pairing a moisturizer with a face oil locks in hydration. As dehydrated skin (which lacks water, not oil) can accelerate aging, this combo becomes essential for preserving barrier health and bounce. Today's skin stressors are layered: UV damage, pollution, and heat-induced sweat all compete to clog pores and compromise glow. But active skincare isn't just defensive, it's proactive. Emerging studies show that sweat (especially post-workout perspiration) can actually support the skin by helping clear pores and boosting circulation. However, heat and humidity also reduce the skin's ability to regulate sebum production and sweat evaporation, making it more vulnerable to UV exposure and breakouts. Research compiled by the National Institutes of Health confirms that this trio (sweat, SPF buildup, and pollution) can disrupt the skin barrier and increase inflammation. So whether you're city-bound or trail-hopping, the best skincare works like gear: functional, portable, and multi-benefit. Your hair faces the same travel turbulence as your skin, dry cabins, chlorine-laced pools, UV rays, and styling tool roulette. Purist Pure Scalp Relief offers a travel-sized solution for dry, irritated scalps. Formulated with cooling menthol and soothing plant oils, it refreshes and rebalances your scalp and restores shine during or after long-haul travel. A sleekening mist like Oribe's Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray can smooth even the worst-behaved tresses and speed up dry time, ideal when hotel tools are less than reliable. For those logging outdoor time, pack a lightweight heat protectant like Bumble and Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist. And when you want effortless texture without the crunch, try IGK Beach Club Texture Spray, which gives you touchable, voluminous waves without drying out your strands. But don't overlook simple hacks backed by science. According to experts, soaking your hair with clean tap water before swimming helps minimize chlorine absorption, while coconut oil forms a protective barrier that preserves color and moisture. Leave-in conditioners, protective styles, and even a silk scrunchie can keep strands intact through long flights and humid hikes. Summer travel is less about the destination and more about what your skin endures along the way. Active beauty reframes skincare not as a pampering pause, but as a performance protocol. In this landscape, your routine isn't just maintenance, it's preparation. Click here to learn more about Tata Harper
Los Angeles Times
25-06-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Are Mushroom Molecules the New Hyaluronic Acid?
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. What is snow mushroom, and why is it trending in skincare? For centuries, mushrooms have been pillars of traditional medicine, used to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and promote longevity. Now, that ancient wisdom is finding its place in modern skincare. Snow mushroom, also known as tremella, has become a standout for its impressive hydration potential, often compared to hyaluronic acid, the long-standing industry go-to. Tremella's polysaccharides reportedly hold up to 500 times their weight in water, according to recent studies. Because of its smaller molecular structure, snow mushroom may penetrate skin more effectively, delivering moisture that lasts. Hyaluronic acid remains a trusted hydrator, but tremella is gaining ground. Dr. Hope Mitchell, a board-certified dermatologist, breaks it down: 'Hyaluronic acid has long been the gold standard for hydration; it binds up to 1,000 times its weight in water,' she says. 'But newer ingredients like polyglutamic acid and tremella mushroom offer exciting alternatives... Tremella mushroom, a natural polysaccharide, has a water-binding capacity that rivals hyaluronic acid and is often better tolerated by sensitive skin.' In practice, tremella forms a weightless, breathable layer on the skin, locking in moisture without the stickiness some HA formulas leave behind. It's also known for pairing well with barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide. Try it: Herbivore Botanicals TREMELLA Silky Hydration Gel Cream delivers light, long-lasting hydration with rosewater and plant-based squalane. Hydration is just the beginning. Tremella is rich in antioxidants that help combat the effects of stress, UV exposure, and pollution, all of which contribute to premature aging. NIH research shows that tremella may help reduce inflammation and support collagen production. That means more even tone, smoother texture, and greater overall resilience. Also worth a look: Moon Juice Cosmic Cream Heavenly Hydration, which offers on-the-go hydration with a side of brightening. Healthy, hydrated skin needs more than water; it needs a strong barrier. This is where tremella's moisture-locking properties shine. It helps support the lipid matrix that keeps skin supple and resilient. 'For my patients with dry or eczema-prone skin, especially during seasonal changes like spring, I recommend following a 'less but better' approach,' says Dr. Mitchell. That means scaling back actives and doubling down on ingredients that nourish and repair, like ceramides and niacinamide. Tremella's gentle hydration makes it a natural complement. Looking for a treatment-driven hydration mask that still plays well with sensitive skin? KORA Organics Milky Mushroom Ultra-Hydrating Mask blends snow mushroom with aloe, coconut milk, and hyaluronic acid. Prefer something fragrance-free and clinically backed? No7 Derm Solutions 100-Hour Hydration Cream locks in moisture and helps support the skin barrier, making it a natural follow-up to tremella-based masks. Let's clear something up: not all mushroom skincare is created equal. Potency matters, and not every product contains a meaningful dose of tremella. Look for formulas that disclose percentages and are backed by solid testing. Also, tremella isn't a miracle cure. Skin health is holistic, and no single ingredient can replace good habits. Quality sleep, reduced stress, and a balanced diet still play a major role in how your skin behaves. Adding tremella to your regimen doesn't require a major overhaul. Think of it as a hydration booster you can layer into what you're already using: Today's consumers want more from their skincare, multi-tasking ingredients that deliver hydration, repair, and protection. Tremella checks all those boxes. Expect to see it in more formulas aimed at sensitive skin, post-procedure recovery, and long-term barrier support. With ongoing research into mushroom-derived actives, tremella is just the beginning of fungi's skincare era. Today's skincare consumer wants more than a dewy glow; they want ingredients that hydrate, repair, and protect. Tremella mushroom ticks all three boxes. Thanks to its ability to hold water, calm inflammation, and support the skin barrier, it's increasingly showing up in formulas for sensitive skin, post-procedure recovery, and long-term skin resilience. With ongoing research into mushroom-derived actives, tremella is poised to lead the next wave of science-backed, wellness-aligned skincare. It's not just another hydration trend; it's a preview of where skin health is headed. Click here to learn more about Dr. Hope Mitchell
Los Angeles Times
24-06-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Why Infrared Sauna and Massage Are the Smartest Recovery Duo
LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. Once obsessed with hustle and high-intensity everything, wellness is taking a smarter turn. Longevity-focused clinics and modern spas have shifted gears from calorie burn to nervous system repair. At the center of this paradigm shift? The infrared sauna. Infrared technology isn't new, but its integration with massage therapy is revolutionizing how we think about post-workout, post-stress, and even post-burnout care. Unlike traditional saunas, which heat the surrounding air, FAR infrared saunas use light to gently elevate your core body temperature, allowing you to sweat more deeply at a lower, more tolerable heat. This targeted approach has been shown to reduce inflammation, enhance circulation, and accelerate muscle recovery. Think of it as cellular self-care. Matthew Perry, Learning & Development Manager at The NOW, frames the trend simply: 'Massage already downregulates the nervous system and improves lymphatic flow. Add infrared, and you're extending those benefits, helping the body stay in repair mode longer.' The biohacking community has long praised infrared for its regenerative perks. Studies published by the NIH and longevity clinics like Next Health highlight its benefits across multiple domains: cardiovascular health, metabolic efficiency, and immune support. Regular sessions can trigger autophagy, improve sleep, and even boost collagen production, a longevity trifecta. As health and wellness specialist Dr. Shah explains, the benefits extend beyond detox. 'Infrared saunas offer a high-tech, low-effort way to promote detoxification, stress reduction, muscle and tissue recovery, and even skin health,' he says. This is why layering it with massage makes so much sense. Think of infrared as the warm-up act that primes the fascia, while massage delivers the main event. 'If you begin with infrared sauna, the heat warms your muscles and fascia, making them more pliable so your massage therapist can work more deeply and effectively on the body,' says Perry. For at-home enthusiasts, red light therapy masks like those reviewed here offer a consumer-friendly entry point into infrared benefits. Whether you start with a massage or slip into the sauna first, the pairing amplifies results. Beginning with bodywork helps calm the nervous system and improve circulation, preparing the body to receive deeper detoxification benefits in the sauna. Reversing the order, on the other hand, makes your body more receptive to deeper massage techniques. The NOW recommends a 50-minute Swedish massage followed by a 20-minute infrared sauna session. According to Perry, this approach 'helps deepen relaxation, boost circulation, and support your body's natural recovery process.' 'Guests who combine massage with infrared sauna often experience better sleep, reduced stress, and a greater sense of recovery between treatments,' he adds. The combination has become a favorite among clients seeking an efficient yet indulgent form of recovery. After your session, rinse off, rehydrate, and apply a nourishing moisturizer (something like Tatcha's Indigo Body Butter) to lock in moisture and support post-sauna skin recovery. From there, consider adding techniques that encourage lymphatic flow. 'Modalities that support lymphatic detox, like Gua Sha or dry brushing, are great after a sauna session to help flush out toxins,' Perry notes. These additions can amplify the benefits of both treatments. And if you're easing sore muscles, starting with infrared can make techniques like myofascial release or trigger point therapy feel less intense, and work even better. Infrared saunas are generally considered safe, but that doesn't mean they're for everyone. Those with cardiovascular conditions or heat sensitivities should consult a doctor first. And let's be clear: more heat doesn't mean more benefit. 'You don't need extreme heat to get results,' notes Dr. Shah. 'Infrared operates at lower temps but penetrates deeper into tissues.' Also, beware of the wellness 'stacking' trap. Doubling down on recovery techniques can feel productive, but it's quality and timing, not just quantity, that determines results. Integrate intentionally. And always hydrate. Infrared and massage are not just trending because they're relaxing. They reflect a broader shift toward longevity-centric care: routines that prioritize cellular function, metabolic flexibility, and nervous system regulation. It's a movement away from quick-fix detoxes and toward sustained, science-backed strategies for vitality. For those seeking better sleep, improved focus, less burnout, or simply a way to feel better in their skin, this combo might be the recovery tool we didn't know we needed. Click here to learn more about The NOW
