WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INFRARED AND TRADITIONAL SAUNAS?

 

Infrared saunas and traditional saunas with heaters and rocks are both popular for relaxation and health benefits, but they differ significantly in their operation, experience, and potential benefits. Understanding these differences can help individuals choose the type of sauna that best suits their needs.

Heating Method
The fundamental difference between infrared saunas and traditional saunas lies in their heating method. Traditional saunas use a heater, often electric or wood-burning, to heat the air and rocks within the room. These rocks retain and radiate heat, raising the air temperature to typically between 150°F and 195°F. Users pour water over the heated rocks to generate steam, which adds to the humidity and intensifies the heat sensation.

In contrast, infrared saunas do not heat the air around you. Instead, they use infrared panels to emit infrared light, which is absorbed directly by your skin. This creates a heating effect from within the body rather than warming the air. The temperatures in infrared saunas are generally lower, ranging from 120°F to 150°F, making it a more tolerable option for those who are sensitive to higher temperatures.

Health Benefits
Both sauna types offer various health benefits, but the nature of their heat can influence the kind of benefits they provide. Traditional saunas with their higher temperatures and steam are excellent for cardiovascular health, promoting increased heart rate and sweating, akin to a moderate workout. This can help in improving circulation and reducing muscle soreness.

Infrared saunas, with their lower temperatures, are often more comfortable for extended periods. The direct heat penetration is believed to reach deeper into the tissues, which may be more effective for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and detoxification. The lower temperatures also make it a suitable option for people who can't tolerate the heat of traditional saunas, such as those with certain medical conditions.

Experience
The experience in these two types of saunas is notably different. Traditional saunas offer a more intense heat with higher humidity, especially when water is thrown on the rocks. This can be a more invigorating and sweat-inducing experience. The heat and humidity combination is often praised for its ability to clear congestion and promote deep breathing.

Infrared saunas provide a more gentle, dry heat. The experience is often described as a deep, warming sensation, akin to sunbathing. The lower temperature and absence of steam make it a more comfortable option for reading, meditating, or even gentle stretching inside the sauna.

Energy Efficiency and Installation
In terms of energy efficiency and installation, infrared saunas typically have an edge. They heat up faster and use less energy, which can be a cost-saving aspect in the long run. Infrared saunas are also generally easier to install and require less maintenance than traditional saunas, as there are no concerns about humidity damage.

Traditional saunas, while more energy-intensive and requiring a more involved installation process, are often prized for their classic sauna experience. They can also be custom-built to fit specific spaces and preferences, which can be a significant advantage for sauna enthusiasts.

Conclusion
The choice between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna with heaters and rocks ultimately depends on individual preferences and health considerations. While traditional saunas offer a classic, steamy experience with higher temperatures, infrared saunas provide a gentler, more sustained heat with potentially deeper tissue benefits. Both types offer a range of health benefits and can be a valuable addition to one’s wellness routine.