Infrared Saunas vs. Traditional Saunas

The world has been basking in the warmth of saunas for thousands of years. From the ancient Finnish steam baths to the luxurious spa treatments of today, saunas have continuously evolved, providing unparalleled relaxation and health benefits.



Two prevalent types of saunas in today's wellness industry are traditional saunas and infrared saunas. But which one is better for you? Let's delve into a detailed comparison.

Heating Mechanism Differences

Traditional saunas use a process called convection. This means they heat the air around you, which in turn heats your body. It's an indirect way of increasing your body temperature.

On the other hand, infrared saunas use a process of radiant heating. Instead of heating the air around you, they emit infrared light waves that directly warm your body. It's a more direct approach that doesn't rely on intermediate steps.

Temperature Variations

Traditional saunas are known for their intense heat. They usually operate at temperatures soaring between 150°F and 175°F. For some, this high heat is invigorating, but for others, it might be a tad too intense. Furthermore, the humidity levels, combined with the heat, can make the experience feel overwhelming for those not accustomed to it.

In contrast, infrared saunas tend to be milder, operating between 110°F to 140°F. However, don't be fooled by the seemingly lower temperatures. The infrared heat penetrates deeper into the skin, ensuring you sweat and receive therapeutic benefits, even at lower temperatures.

Health Benefits Comparison

Both sauna types have plenty to offer when it comes to health benefits. Traditional saunas provide cardiovascular conditioning, which is fantastic for heart health. The high temperatures and resultant intense sweating can aid in flushing out toxins, giving the body a thorough cleanse. Beyond the physical benefits, the heat from traditional saunas can also instill a profound sense of relaxation, helping to ward off stress.

Infrared saunas, while operating at milder temperatures, bring about their own set of advantages. The deep penetrating heat works wonders on muscles and tissues, providing significant relief. This heat also promotes improved circulation, contributing to a faster recovery time and an overall sense of well-being. On a cellular level, infrared saunas support detoxification processes that can lead to clearer skin and a bolstered immune system.

In essence, either sauna choice ensures a journey toward rejuvenation and wellness.

Energy Efficiency 

Traditional saunas, which rely on heating the air to warm your body, often take longer to reach the desired temperature. In contrast, infrared saunas warm the body directly using infrared lamps. They require less time to heat up, which could mean shorter wait times for sessions. This efficient use of energy not only is better for the environment but also assures a quicker path to relaxation and rejuvenation.

Safety and Comfort

Every sauna experience should prioritize safety. With traditional saunas, there's a risk of overheating and dehydration due to the high ambient temperatures. It's crucial to stay hydrated and be mindful of the time spent inside.

Infrared saunas come with their safety notes as well. While the ambient temperature might be lower and more comfortable, the deep penetrating heat means users should still be cautious about the duration of their sessions to avoid overexposure.

Infrared saunas offer a compelling set of advantages over traditional saunas. From deeper tissue penetration and more tailored heat experiences to better energy efficiency, the benefits of infrared technology are undeniable.

While traditional saunas have their place and offer a unique experience, those looking for a modern and efficient option might find infrared saunas to be a better choice. 

Are you interested in experiencing an infrared sauna firsthand? Reach out to Ultra Cryo & Recovery to book a session today.