Traditional Sauna vs Infrared Sauna: What’s the Difference?

Did you know that getting your sweat on in the sauna can improve your mood, boost your immune system, benefit your circulation, and more?

Saunas have been used throughout the ages to promote wellbeing, health, and relaxation.

Traditionally, most saunas involved heated rocks and steam. Modern types of saunas also use heating elements to warm the air. Now, there’s a new sauna option on the block, the infrared sauna.

Are you wondering what are the differences between an old-school sauna vs infrared sauna? The answer might surprise you.

Keep reading to find out what is an infrared sauna, and how it compares to traditional sauna options.

Heat Differences Between a Traditional Sauna vs Infrared Sauna

Unlike regular saunas that heat the air, infrared saunas use infrared rays to directly heat up your body from within.

Because of this, an infrared sauna does not get nearly as hot as a traditional sauna. If you’re wondering what is the temperature difference between a regular sauna vs infrared sauna, infrared saunas at their hottest are roughly 30 degrees cooler than a normal sauna.

If you are sensitive to extreme temperatures, this can make an infrared sauna a more pleasant and comfortable option.

Effectiveness of a Traditional Sauna vs Infrared Sauna

If you’re wondering which is more effective, an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna, the jury isn’t out on that one yet. So far, there is no evidence stating that either is more or less effective than the other.

If you like a steamy sauna, then you’ll only be able to get this with a traditional sauna. Infrared saunas do not generate steam.

However, infrared saunas do create infrared light, which has a number of researched health benefits, including improved detoxification and cardiovascular health. Red light therapy has also been shown to assist with pain, inflammation, and muscle injuries.

Convenience and Ease of Use

One of the big differences between a traditional sauna vs infrared sauna is that infrared options are usually more convenient for home use. Instead of building an entire sauna room, you can simply buy an infrared sauna device and use it anywhere in your home.

Most infrared saunas for sale are pretty much plug-and-play. Because they don’t heat up the air or create steam, infrared sauna options don’t need a dedicated room.

Energy Efficiency

Another benefit to infrared saunas is they generally use less energy than traditional saunas. If you’re using an old-fashioned sauna, you’ll need to build a fire to heat up the rocks.

Modern electrical options are a lot more convenient, but they do draw a fair amount of electricity. In contrast, infrared technology is highly energy-efficient. If you’re worried that a home sauna is going to drive up your utility bills, then an infrared sauna product is the way to go.

Enjoy the Benefits of a Sauna in the Comfort of Your Own Home

If you’re trying to decide between a regular sauna vs infrared sauna, infrared options are usually better suited for home use. Not only are they cheaper to install and use, but they’re also more convenient.

However, if you like to have steam in your sauna, then you’ll need to look into installing a traditional sauna unit.

On the hunt for more helpful wellness guides? Scroll through the health section of the blog.