Traditional vs. Infrared Saunas: What’s The Difference?

Saunas have been used for centuries as a way to relax, detoxify, and promote overall health. With modern advancements, the options for saunas have expanded to include both traditional and infrared models. But which one is best for your needs? In this blog, we’ll compare traditional and infrared saunas, their benefits, and ideal use cases to help you decide.

Introduction to Traditional and Infrared Saunas

Traditional saunas and infrared saunas differ fundamentally in how they generate heat:

• Traditional Saunas: Use either electric heaters or wood-fired stoves to heat the air, creating a hot, humid environment.
• Infrared Saunas: Use infrared light to directly heat the body, providing a gentler, dry heat.

Both options offer unique benefits, and choosing the right sauna depends on your personal wellness goals and preferences.

Traditional Saunas: The Classic Choice

How They Work

Traditional saunas use an electric heater or a wood-fired stove to heat the air inside the sauna, typically reaching temperatures between 80°C and 110°C. Users can pour water onto hot stones to create steam, increasing the humidity and enhancing the overall experience.

Benefits of Traditional Saunas

1. Cardiovascular Health: Regular use of traditional saunas has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Studies from Finland, where 65% of households own a sauna, show significantly lower rates of heart attack among frequent sauna users .
2. Detoxification: The intense heat and humidity promote heavy sweating, helping to eliminate toxins from the body.
3. Pain Relief for Arthritis and Fibromyalgia:
   • Arthritis: The intense heat reduces joint stiffness and promotes blood flow, improving mobility and alleviating pain.
   • Fibromyalgia: Sauna sessions help reduce widespread pain, tender points, and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
   • Supporting Research: Studies from the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology and Kagoshima University highlight improvements in symptoms for individuals with these conditions after regular sauna use.
4. Relaxation and Stress Relief: The high heat and steam help relax muscles, reduce tension, and lower stress levels.
5. Respiratory Health: Adding water to the stones increases humidity, making it easier to breathe and soothing respiratory issues.
6. Cultural Significance: In Finland, saunas are deeply ingrained in the culture, contributing to some of the lowest heart attack rates and highest happiness levels globally.

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Adding Water to the Stones

Pouring water onto hot stones creates steam, increasing the humidity and intensifying the heat. This process:

• Enhances respiratory health by moistening the air.
• Promotes deeper sweating for detoxification.
• Provides a more immersive and sensory experience.

The Aufguss Ritual

Traditional saunas allow for the Aufguss ritual, where water infused with essential oils is poured onto hot stones. This creates a burst of steam and aroma, increasing circulation, stimulating the senses, and deepening relaxation.

Best Use Cases

• Individuals seeking cardiovascular benefits.
• Those who enjoy high-heat, steam-filled environments.
• Users looking for deep detoxification, pain relief, cardiovascular or respiratory benefits.

Infrared Saunas: The Modern Option

How They Work

Infrared saunas use infrared light to directly heat the body, rather than the air. Temperatures are capped at around 60°C, making them more suitable for those who prefer milder heat.

Benefits of Infrared Saunas

1. Pain Relief: Infrared saunas are often recommended for individuals with chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia or arthritis, due to their ability to penetrate deeper into tissues.
2. Gentle Detoxification: The lower temperatures still promote sweating, helping the body eliminate toxins.
3. Relaxation: The soothing heat helps reduce stress and promotes mental clarity.
4. Energy Efficiency: Infrared saunas are typically cheaper to run due to their efficient heating mechanism.

Limitations

• Indoor Use Only: Infrared saunas are generally used indoors, such as in gyms or homes, because their lower temperatures make it challenging to maintain heat in outdoor settings.
• No Humidity Control: Infrared saunas lack the ability to increase humidity by adding water to stones, which some users find limits the sensory experience.

Best Use Cases

• Individuals with heat sensitivity.
• Those seeking therapeutic relief for chronic pain.
• Users who prefer a lower-cost, energy-efficient option.

Comparing Traditional and Infrared Saunas

Emerging Research on Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas are a newer technology, and while early studies show promising benefits, the research is still developing. For example, some studies suggest infrared saunas may improve circulation and reduce inflammation, but long-term effects are less documented compared to traditional saunas.

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Conclusion

Choosing between a traditional and an infrared sauna depends on your wellness goals and preferences. Traditional saunas offer time-tested benefits, intense heat, and cultural rituals like the Aufguss, while infrared saunas provide modern convenience, gentle heat, and energy efficiency. Traditional saunas are also well-suited for pain relief in conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Whatever you choose, both options can enhance your health and relaxation.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new health routine, including sauna use.