If you're exploring infrared PEMF mats, you're probably curious about how they work and what benefits they offer. These mats combine infrared heat with PEMF therapy to support your wellness routine. They're designed to help with things like pain relief, better sleep, and overall relaxation.
In this post, we'll break down the basics of infrared PEMF mat technology, how it works, and what to look for when choosing one. Whether you're new to this or considering an upgrade, this guide aims to provide clear and practical information to help you decide if an infrared PEMF mat fits into your wellness journey.
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Infrared PEMF mats are part of the growing world of infrared wellness, but they work a little differently than what most people expect from infrared heat at home. When we think of infrared therapy, we usually picture full-body sauna cabins, heated tents, blankets, or domes. These surround your body, trap heat inside, and create a deep, often sweaty experience, different from a traditional sauna, but still intense.
Infrared PEMF mats take another approach. You lie on them, on the floor, sofa, or bed, and the infrared heat works through your body while pulsed electromagnetic fields signals support deeper healing. Some mats can reach core temperatures of around 158°F (70°C–80°C), but the surface you lie on tends to be 40–50°F cooler. So if you are looking for a strong heat session, this may not be the right tool.
That said, infrared PEMF mats are not about sweating. They are about recovery. The far-infrared heat penetrates deeply and gently to support circulation, reduce inflammation, and help your body heal. It is a different kind of therapy, and for many, exactly what they need.
The benefits of these mats are multiplied: They provide pain relief, support athletic recovery, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, promote muscle relaxation, reduce stress, enhance immune function and contributes to better sleep quality by inducing relaxation and relieving discomfort.
Want to understand the basics of both therapies? Take a look at our guides on infrared radiation and PEMF mat therapy. Here we cover the essentials, from origins and frequencies to medical use and proven benefits.
HealthyLine Platinum Mat Series Review
Infrared PEMF mats offer adjustable settings that help you get the most out of each session in a way that feels safe, comfortable, and effective.
Let’s keep it simple. These mats usually let you control two things: infrared heat and PEMF. One feels warm and soothing on the surface. The other works deeper in your body. It might sound a bit technical, but we’ll guide you through the basics.
This part is easy. Most mats let you adjust the temperature, usually between 77°F and 158°F (25–70°C). Keep in mind that the surface temperature is often 40–50°F lower than the internal setting, so it feels warm, not scorching. It is good to know that they need time to reach their optimal operating temperature. This can vary from 15-60 minutes.
You won’t sweat buckets like in a sauna, but the heat is ideal for relaxing tight muscles, soothing joints, and supporting circulation.
Tip: For longer sessions (like when lying on your bed or sofa), stick to low-to-medium heat. It’s gentler on the skin and still delivers great results.
Want a sauna-like effect? Some manufacturers take it a step further. HealthyLine includes reflective foil covers with their infrared PEMF mats to help retain heat. For an upgrade, they also offer a 360-degree wrap system that turns your mat into a full-body sauna experience. Brands like BON CHARGE, 1Love Health, and LifePro use infrared PEMF mat tech inside their sauna domes for a more enclosed setup.
This is where the magic and customization really happens. PEMF isn’t just about frequency. High-end mats (like the HealthyLine Platinum) let you tweak patterns, waveforms, durations, and more. Here's what you might see on the settings panel:
Setting | What It Means | Why It Matters |
---|---|---|
Frequency | How many pulses per second (e.g., 3 Hz = 3 pulses/sec) | Different frequencies do different things: sleep (1–5 Hz), pain relief (10–15 Hz), focus (15–30 Hz) |
Intensity | How strong the magnetic field is (measured in Gauss) | Deeper penetration at higher intensities, but not always better: 5 to 20 Gauss is great for most |
Waveform | The shape of the pulse: sine and square | Sine = smooth and relaxing; Square = strong and stimulating |
Programs / Presets | Ready-made settings for goals like “Relax” or “Recovery” | You don’t need to be an expert, just pick a goal |
Pulse Patterns | How pulses are grouped (steady, bursts, clusters) | Changes how the therapy feels and how your body responds |
Timer / Duration | Session length (e.g., 20 or 60 minutes) | Keeps use safe and consistent, no need to guess |
Frequency Sweep | Cycles through a range (e.g., 1–30 Hz during a session) | Helps avoid “body adaptation” and targets more systems |
BON CHARGE PEMF Mat collection review
Infrared PEMF mats are built in layers, each with a specific function. The number and type of layers vary widely depending on the brand and the therapies included. For example, HealthyLine mats can have up to 21 layers, while HigherDOSE uses a 7-layer system. Each manufacturer balances features like durability, heating, PEMF delivery, and added healing elements (like gemstones or charcoal) in their own way.
The infrared PEMF mat uses copper coils to generate pulsed electromagnetic fields. Their arrangement (spacing, overlap, and geometry) affects how evenly the field distributes across the mat, which is crucial for consistent full-body exposure.
Since copper coils are fragile, the mat requires reinforced construction (protective layers, flexible yet durable substrates) to withstand pressure and movement, especially in larger mats. This ensures long-term functionality and prevents coil damage, maintaining PEMF effectiveness over time but this reinforced construction often makes the mats rigid and less flexible.
They can be hard to bend or fold and typically need to be used on a flat, stable surface. Most full body mats can be folded in their designed segments (like tri-folds) or loosely rolled.
Typically made from carbon fiber or metal, these provide far-infrared warmth. Most manufacturers prefer carbon fiber because it heats far infrared more effectively, delivering deep, soothing warmth without becoming excessively hot [1].
HIgherDOSE, known for their sauna blanket, also have an infrared PEMF mat
Mats often include gemstones like amethyst and tourmaline [2,3]. These are claimed to emit far-infrared energy and negative ions, which may enhance natural healing by improving circulation and grounding the body.
But some manufacturers take it further, upgrading their mats to real chakra energizers with 7 to 11 different gemstones, each with a variety of claimed healing properties. Examples include the HealthyLine Rainbow Chakra Mat and the 1Love Health Infrared PEMF Mat.
👉 Learn more about gemstone heat therapy
The above-listed materials and layers represent the most common components found in infrared PEMF mats. Always check the manufacturer’s website for the exact construction details.
Yes! It is always a good idea to use a mat cover to keep your mat clean. Some manufacturers include covers with their mats, while others offer them at an additional cost.
Therasage is big on natural healing, but is the TheraPro PEMF pad worth it? Let’s find out
Infrared PEMF mats come in a wide range of sizes, starting at compact 20" pads and wraps, to chair-fitting formats, medium-sized mats, full-body versions, and even extended pro models designed for massage tables or king-size beds.
Most mats come in full-body sizes, similar to a yoga mat, and give you enough room to lie down comfortably. You just need a flat surface and a nearby power outlet. Because these mats can weigh between 12 and 20 kilograms, it takes two people to carry. It is best to give them a fixed spot in your home, like floor, sofa or your bed.
If full-size mats are too large for your space or budget, smaller options might suit you better. Compact mats, like the 20" pads or wraps are great for targeted therapy. You can place them under your feet, drape them over your torso, or position them behind your back while sitting.
Chair mats are perfect if you want to enjoy infrared and PEMF therapy while working or commuting. These medium-sized mats fit well on office chairs and car seats, helping you bring wellness into your daily routine without needing extra time or space. Do check if the mat fits your chair and if it’s suitable for your car setup (power adapter for vehicle use). And thanks to their portable size, you can also use them on the sofa, bed, or floor during yoga and other activities.
For professionals, there are massage pro table versions designed for spa and clinical use, but be aware that not all manufacturers warrant their mats for professional (or commercial) use.
Check out 1Love Health’s new PEMF mats launched in July 2024 in our latest review
Infrared PEMF mats stand out for their simplicity and ease of use. They typically feature intuitive control panels that make adjusting temperature and setting session times straightforward.
Some mats offer adjustable PEMF settings, which might take a bit of a learning curve compared to fixed programs. The benefit is you can tailor frequencies to your specific healing needs.
Maintenance is minimal, usually just a quick wipe to keep the surface clean. Using a mat cover like a towel or sheet is recommended. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Hooga PEMF Mat Review (includes HigherDOSE comparison)
As of 2025, many infrared PEMF mats include additional therapies:
Red Light Therapy
A popular addition to PEMF mats is red light therapy, which uses red and near-infrared light to penetrate deep into tissues. This therapy supports healing of skin conditions, reduces inflammation, and helps relieve joint pain.
Gemstone Therapy
Most mats incorporate gemstones such as amethyst, tourmaline, and jade. These stones are believed to potentially improve circulation, ground the body, and support natural healing processes.
TENS Therapy
Though less common, some PEMF providers, Therasage, offer Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) as a complementary option [4]. Unlike PEMF, TENS delivers small electrical impulses through separate pads placed on the skin, targeting pain relief by interrupting pain signals and encouraging the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
Our FAQ and buyer's guide cover cover key considerations, safety tips, and what you should know before buying an infrared PEMF mat. Here, we highlight some of the most important points.
Electronic Implants
If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, electronic implant, or magnetizable prostheses, consult your doctor before using a PEMF mat. The electromagnetic fields may interfere with these devices.
Medical Conditions
If you have any medical conditions or take medications, always check with your healthcare provider before adding a PEMF mat to your wellness routine.
Pregnancy
Pregnant? It is recommended to seek medical advice before use to understand any potential risks from electromagnetic field exposure.
Electrical Equipment Caution
It is advices to keep a safe distance of at least three meters between the PEMF mat and electronic devices such as TVs, monitors, mobile phones, and Wi-Fi routers to avoid interference.
Frequency and Intensity
PEMF mats operate at different frequencies and intensities. Choose settings that match your specific health needs and goals.
Duration of Use
Session length varies depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and do not exceed recommended usage times.
Quality and Safety
Select mats from reputable manufacturers with positive customer reviews and relevant certifications to ensure your device meets safety standards and regulations.
The price range for PEMF mats varies widely starting at $ 300 and going up to $ 5,000. The price depends on size, features and brand. There are a wide variety of options, from basic models to more advanced models with additional features such as multiple therapy integrations, including TENS therapy, red light therapy and gemstone technology.
The more advanced models, which come with additional features such as programmable PEMF therapy programs and full body coverage, tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum.
Keep in mind that some premium mats come with better warranties, customer support, or even software updates for customizable settings. Also, check whether accessories like carrying cases or controllers are included or sold separately. These extras can affect the total cost.
When selecting a PEMF mat, it's essential to consider your individual health goals and budget. The wide range of features and price points means there's a mat for nearly every need and preference, from basic models for general wellness to advanced mats with specialized therapies for more targeted needs.
Start by visiting our Best Infrared PEMF Mats Reviews, where we’ve reviewed the top 8 PEMF mats to help you find your perfect fit.
The newest HealthyLine jet Mat Series - Check out our 2025 review
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Sam Everhart
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References
1. Michio Inagaki, Carbon Fiber, ScienceDirect, https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/materials-science/carbon-fiber
2. GIA, Tourmaline, GEM Encyclopedia, https://www.gia.edu/tourmaline
3. GIA, Amethyst, GEM Encyclopedia, https://www.gia.edu/amethyst
4. Cleveland Clinic, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/15840-transcutaneous-electrical-nerve-stimulation-tens