Infrared Vs. Regular Sauna: Detailed Comparison, Benefits, and Winner
Historically, heat bathing has been practiced for health and purification. In recent times, infrared saunas have gained popularity in functional medicine over traditional Finnish saunas.
Infrared saunas are ideal for detoxification, relaxation, and potentially preventing health issues. Regular sauna use can help reduce pain, improve mood, and lower the risk of heart disease and Alzheimer's.
In this article, we'll also explore the differences between infrared vs. regular saunas, how they work, and the truth behind the hype.
Infrared Vs. Regular Sauna: The Comparison
In the table below, we present the differences between infrared saunas and regular saunas.
| Aspects | Infrared Sauna | Regular Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Method | Infrared light penetrates the body directly. | Heats the surrounding air using stones or a stove. |
| Temperature Range | Operates at a comfortable 120–140°F. | Temperatures can reach 150-195°F, causing intense heat. |
| Humidity | Use dry heat for a clean, sweat-focused session. | Steam can add humidity, but some find it overwhelming. |
| Heat Tolerance | Gentle heat is suitable for sensitive individuals. | Intense heat experience, not ideal for everyone. |
| Health Benefits | Excellent for detox, pain relief, and improved skin health. | Supports cardiovascular health and relaxation. |
| Setup and Space | Compact and easy to install at home. | Requires more space and ventilation. |
| Energy Efficiency | Lower energy use for eco-friendly operation. | Consumes more power due to high temperatures. |
| Time to Heat Up | Heats up quickly in 5–10 minutes. | Takes 30–45 minutes to reach full temperature. |
Both infrared and regular saunas offer a range of health benefits and are easily accessible. However, infrared sauna centers in Franklin are now the top choice of people due to their modern facilities.
Key Features That Set Infrared and Traditional Saunas Apart
Despite their remarkable health benefits, regular saunas and infrared saunas differ significantly in key areas. Choose your preferred option based on the differences below.
Heating Methods
Infrared saunas and regular saunas provide unique benefits for heat therapy. An infrared sauna provides gentle, penetrating warmth through infrared light. By contrast, traditional saunas heat the surrounding air, creating an enveloping atmosphere.
Temperature and Humidity
Infrared saunas are perfect for heat-sensitive people as they work at lower temperatures without added humidity. In traditional saunas, heat and steam are combined, creating a refreshing yet overwhelming environment.
Health Benefits
Both saunas offer unique health benefits. An infrared sauna can help you detoxify deep tissues, relieve pain, and recover muscles. A traditional sauna stimulates circulation and relaxation through sweating in a high-heat environment.
Time and Convenience
Infrared saunas are convenient and time-saving. They heat up quickly, which makes them ideal for short and efficient sessions. In contrast, a traditional sauna takes longer to heat and requires lengthier sessions. They are more suitable for longer, immersive sessions.
As a final note:
Infrared saunas are the best in terms of ease of use, comfort, and health benefits. They provide an exciting alternative to sauna therapy. However, the choice is yours!
Health Benefits of Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna
Both types of sauna are proven to be healthy. However, they can benefit you in different ways. You should consider those differences when choosing between the two.
Detoxification
Infrared Sauna: Penetrates deeper into tissues to remove toxins through sweating.
Regular Sauna: Heat-induced sweating promotes superficial detoxification.
Pain Relief
Infrared Sauna: Improves blood circulation and targets deep tissues to relieve muscle pain and soreness.
Regular Sauna: Relaxes muscles and relieves general tension.
Cardiovascular Health
Infrared Sauna: Helps promote circulation and heart health, ideal for heat-sensitive people.
Regular Sauna: Boosts the heart rate and circulation, similar to light cardio.
Stress Reduction
Infrared Sauna: Delivers calming, gentle heat that reduces stress and anxiety.
Regular Sauna: Envelopes the body with warmth and relaxation.
Skin Health
Infrared Sauna: Enhances skin elasticity and tone by stimulating collagen production.
Regular Sauna: Provides skin cleansing, but not deep tissue therapy.
Weight Loss Support
Infrared Sauna: Increases metabolism and burns calories through deep sweating.
Regular Sauna: It burns calories mainly because of increased sweating.
Muscle Recovery
Infrared Sauna: Reduces inflammation and improves oxygenation after exercise.
Regular Sauna: Helps relax muscles but may not benefit targeted recovery.
Respiratory Health
Infrared Sauna: Provides lower-humidity heat, which is comfortable for respiratory conditions sufferers.
Regular Sauna: Steam and high heat soothe sinus congestion but may strain sensitive users' breathing.
Infrared vs Regular Sauna: The Winner
In a regular sauna, high temperatures and humidity are usual experiences. In contrast, you may prefer an infrared sauna if you don't like extreme heat.
Traditional saunas require more time to preheat. Alternatively, an infrared sauna may let you relax without prior planning.
Infrared saunas focus on deep tissue penetration, promoting detoxification and relaxation. Traditional saunas are beneficial for improving cardiovascular health and relieving respiratory issues.
Identifying the winner between them is a big challenge here. However, when comparing relaxation, technology, and other advantages, infrared saunas are the way to go for modern wellness.
Conclusion
If you were confused about choosing between an infrared vs. a regular sauna, now you know what's better. Infrared saunas and conventional saunas are both valuable additions to a healthy lifestyle.
Yet, infrared saunas may be a better option for maximum benefit due to its technical advancements. We recommend consulting healthcare professionals or instructors at The Infrared Room in Franklin before choosing the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should avoid the sauna?
You should not use a sauna if you suffer from the following heart conditions:
Unstable angina
Recent heart attack
Advanced heart failure
Severe aortic stenosis
Dehydration or low blood pressure
Can you use an infrared and a traditional sauna together?
Yes, both types of saunas can be used together. Using two kinds of saunas may provide more health benefits than simply taking one type alone.
Are infrared saunas safe for everyone?
They are generally safe. However, people with certain health conditions, such as heart issues or pregnancy, should consult a doctor before use.
