Infrared vs. Traditional Sauna: Which is Better?

Woman laying in infrared sauna with towel under her head.

Traditional dry and wet saunas have been used for centuries as a way to relax and detoxify the body. But with the sophistication of modern technology, a new type of sauna has emerged and is becoming increasingly popular around the world – infrared.

Infrared and traditional saunas share many of the same qualities, but there are significant differences as well. As such, each possesses its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.

Let’s go over some of them so you know what to expect and exactly how to get the most out of your relaxation time.

In this article:

  1. The Benefits of Using an Infrared Sauna
  2. How Infrared Saunas Work
  3. Far-Infrared vs Near-Infrared Saunas
  4. The Benefits of Using a Traditional Sauna
  5. How Traditional Saunas Work
  6. Pros and Cons of Infrared and Traditional Saunas
  7. Why Are Infrared Saunas So Popular?
  8. Final Word

The Benefits of Using an Infrared Sauna

Infrared saunas are spreading across the world like wildfire, and for good reason.

While traditional saunas work by heating the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly. This results in a deeper, more detoxifying sweat that can offer a range of health benefits.

For one, infrared saunas can help to relieve pain and stiffness by increasing blood flow and circulation. They can also improve skin health by stimulating collagen production and releasing toxins from the body. In addition, infrared saunas can boost the immune system and improve heart health.

Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health or simply unwind after a long day, an infrared sauna may be the perfect solution.

How Infrared Saunas Work

Infrared light is a type of electromagnetic radiation, which means it travels through the air as a wave of energy. When this wave hits an object, such as the human body, it is absorbed and turned into heat. This process is known as conversion by radiation.

Infrared saunas work by converting electrical energy into infrared light, which then heats the body. The benefits of infrared saunas are thought to come from this deep, gentle heat. Unlike traditional saunas, which can be quite hot and harsh on the skin, infrared provides a more relaxing and comfortable experience.

Additionally, infrared saunas are thought to be more effective at detoxifying the body and providing health benefits due to their ability to penetrate deeper into the tissues.

The Benefits of Using a Traditional Sauna

The sauna is a traditional Finnish method of relaxation used for centuries. The word sauna actually derives from Finnish. Some would say “sauna” is the most popular Finnish word in the world! 

Originally, saunas were used as a way to cleanse the body, but they have since become a popular method of relaxation and stress relief.

There are many health benefits associated with sauna use, including

  • Improved circulation
  • Increased heart rate
  • Improved skin health

Saunas also improve mental health by promoting relaxation and providing an escape from the stresses of daily life. Furthermore, saunas can help to relieve pain and tension in the muscles. For these reasons, saunas are an effective form of therapy for a variety of conditions.