For years, saunas have been used as a means to relieve stress or promote physical wellness. A newer type of sauna is emerging in the wellness industry: the infrared sauna. Traditional and infrared saunas each offer a range of benefits, but they work differently and provide different experiences. In this article, we’ll look at the differences between these two types of saunas, from heat to health benefits to the overall experience.
What Makes Infrared Saunas Different?
Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly, rather than warming the air around it. These saunas usually operate at lower temperatures, between 120°F and 150°F (49°C to 65°C). Despite the cooler surroundings, infrared sauna therapy still induces significant sweating because the infrared rays heat the body from the inside out.
Infrared Sauna Therapy: Unique Benefits
The health benefits of infrared sauna therapy are distinct and potentially greater than those of traditional saunas. The deeper, more penetrative heat can help relax muscles more deeply and relieve joint pain. Infrared sauna sessions are reported to aid workout recovery by reducing inflammation and improving circulation without the strain of extreme heat. Many users also find their sessions to be very relaxing. Additionally, infrared saunas are believed to support skin health by promoting collagen production and helping heal wrinkles. This combination of physical recovery and cosmetic benefits makes them a favourite among those seeking both.
Traditional Saunas: The Fundamentals
To encourage sweating and trap purifying sweat as they do, traditional saunas rely heavily on high temperatures. Typical saunas use either warmed stones or steam to raise the temperature of the room to about 150°F to 190°F (65°C to 90°C). In these hotter temperatures, users experience an increased heart rate and sweat production, which is believed to help release toxins from the body.
Traditional Sauna Health Benefits
Traditional saunas offer some health benefits that infrared saunas do not, but both types are beneficial to your health. Traditional saunas can increase circulation, relax muscles, and help relieve tension. Regular use may also help maintain cardiovascular health by making the heart work harder to pump faster in response to the heat, similar to moderate exercise. Traditional saunas are also said to provide temporary relief from respiratory problems, like congestion, because the humid environment opens up the airways.
Heat Delivery: A Key Difference
The biggest difference between traditional and infrared saunas is how they deliver heat. Traditional saunas heat the air, which in turn warms the body externally, resulting in a more intense and often stifling heat experience. Infrared saunas use radiant heat to directly warm the body’s tissues, rather than relying on air heated from the walls. This leads to a more consistent, milder warmth that can be maintained over a longer period without the intense discomfort typical of traditional saunas.
User Experience: Infrared vs. Traditional
The two sauna types differ significantly in terms of user experience. A traditional sauna delivers a blast of heat that some people find invigorating, while others do not. Sessions in traditional saunas tend to be shorter because it’s difficult to stay in such high heat for long periods. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, offer gentler, longer-lasting heat, allowing users to sit comfortably for 30 to 45 minutes. The steady warmth of infrared saunas is said to create a meditative experience for many users.
Energy Efficiency and Maintenance
Energy consumption is another key difference. Infrared saunas are generally more energy efficient than traditional saunas because they heat the body without needing to raise the air temperature to extreme levels. Maintenance also differs. While traditional saunas may require regular cleaning to prevent mould and bacteria growth, especially in humid environments, infrared saunas run in drier conditions and are easier to maintain.
Finding Your Perfect Sauna
When choosing between an infrared or traditional sauna, consider your personal health needs, heat tolerance, and goals. If you seek an intense heat experience along with cardiovascular and respiratory benefits, a traditional sauna may be the right choice. However, if you prefer a milder, more penetrating heat that helps alleviate muscle soreness and supports skin health, an infrared sauna could be the better option.
In brief, both types of saunas offer significant health advantages, but they generate heat in different ways, provide distinct experiences for the user, and come with different benefits. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision and enhance your overall wellness journey.
