Infrared Saunas vs. Traditional Saunas: A Snapshot
- Key differences: Traditional saunas heat the air first. Infrared saunas use infrared light to penetrate and heat the body directly. Infrared saunas use less heat.
- Infrared sauna benefits: Increased comfort Easier to use at home Less expensive to purchase
- Infrared sauna disadvantages: Limited research Possible marketing influence Potential electromagnetic field (EMF) risks
How much time can I spend in infrared sauna?
You should limit your time spent in an infrared sauna to 20 minutes, though first time visitors should only spend between 5 and 10 minutes in one until they build up their tolerance. When planning...
Is it safe to use an infrared sauna everyday?
There is no one answer for the amount of sessions per week, but infrared saunas are safe to use every day. In fact, you will see wellness improvements sooner if you use it daily. On average, most people partake in 30-45 minute sessions, 3-4 times a week.
What really happens in an infrared sauna?
- ATP Production Increase
- Oxygenation Of the Blood
- Improved Circulation
How to detox using an infrared sauna?
- Drink a lot of water before entering the sauna and avoid the consumption of alcoholic beverages while you’re doing the protocol
- Wash your face before entering the sauna, especially if you’ve just had an exercise session
- Don’t do a treatment if you have sensitive skin or if you’re experiencing some kind of skin irritation
What is the difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna?
Why are infrared saunas so popular?
What are the advantages of infrared saunas?
How does an infrared sauna work?
What is the smallest sauna?
How many people can use an infrared sauna?
How big is a single person infrared sauna?
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Which sauna is better infrared or traditional?
In terms of health benefits; while the hot air from a traditional steam sauna creates surface sweat, the gentle heat from infrared saunas raises the core body temperature - delivering a deep, intense sweat.
Why infrared sauna are better than traditional sauna?
Infrared saunas can stay cooler because they focus on heating up the body itself rather than using the room to do so. Infrared saunas keep the temperature between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit, which is much more tolerable for those who are sensitive to heat.
Which type of sauna is best for home?
WINNER: INFRARED An infrared sauna provides a much milder temperature environment – between 120 to 150 degrees F. Additionally, the light of infrared saunas travels much deeper into the body, meaning they are to cause a more vigorous sweat, despite the lower (and more comfortable) temperature.
What type of sauna is better?
Far-infrared: Far-infrared wavelengths penetrate the most deeply past the skin and into the body, making far infrared saunas the preferred choice for many who are looking for the most powerful healing benefits.
Do traditional saunas have EMF?
Today, traditional saunas employ the same approach except use wood stoves, electric heaters, or carbon or ceramic heating elements. These sort of saunas and steam rooms do not use any electromagnetic frequencies (EMF).
Can you get vitamin D from infrared sauna?
In addition, many people are vitamin D deficient and don't even know it! Vitamin D is not only a building block in your immune system, but it is essential for bone, teeth, and skin health as well as reducing your risk of cancer! The infrared sauna boosts your Vitamin D levels naturally!
Are infrared saunas worth the money?
To sum up, infrared saunas do appear to deliver some health benefits, including reduced joint pain and stiffness and improved blood vessel function, but they can't do what many people hope: they can't “detox” your body, help you lose weight faster, boost your immune system, or prevent cancer.
Where should you put a sauna in your house?
The Best Places to Install Your Home SaunaBasement. Your basement can offer a peaceful place to install a home sauna. ... Bathroom. For those with a larger bathroom area, this may be the perfect spot to install your sauna. ... Spa Room. ... Backyard.
Are dry saunas healthy?
Dry Saunas Improve Circulation and Heart Health Having an easy-to-use dry sauna in your home can improve your body's circulation. Regular sauna sessions help the inside layer of your blood vessels function and regulate blood pressure. The sweat speeds up circulation and leads to enhanced heart health.
What are the benefits of a traditional sauna?
Facilities offering sauna bathing often claim health benefits that include detoxification, increased metabolism, weight loss, increased blood circulation, pain reduction, antiaging, skin rejuvenation, improved cardiovascular function, improved immune function, improved sleep, stress management, and relaxation.
Can you turn a regular sauna into an infrared sauna?
With a Custom InfraSauna™ you can now convert your existing sauna into an upgraded sauna room with CarbonFlex far-infrared heating system combined with a traditional sauna heater-with both heating systems easily controlled with the SaunaLogic™ digital/programmable control.
Which is better dry or wet sauna?
In regard to the way heat effects the body, dry saunas provide better results. That's because the use hot and dry temperatures, which penetrate the body a lot more efficiently. While wet saunas do yield good results, the combination of the moisture and sweating has a cooling effect on the body.
Are infrared saunas worth it?
Many studies have looked at using infrared saunas in the treatment of long-lasting health problems and found some proof that saunas may help. Conditions studied include high blood pressure, heart failure, dementia and Alzheimer's disease, headache, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis.
How long should you stay in infrared sauna?
If you're a regular infrared sauna user, you can stay inside for up to 45 to 50 minutes. It is unlikely that you'll experience more significant health benefits by staying inside for longer as your body will have cleared out the majority of harmful toxins inside the body through sweating within 45 to 50 minutes.
Can you turn a regular sauna into an infrared sauna?
With a Custom InfraSauna™ you can now convert your existing sauna into an upgraded sauna room with CarbonFlex far-infrared heating system combined with a traditional sauna heater-with both heating systems easily controlled with the SaunaLogic™ digital/programmable control.
How long do infrared saunas last?
Sessions in an infrared sauna can often last for around 30-45 minutes. This is why some people suggest that it is more comfortable, and potentially safer. However, traditional sauna often involves multiple rounds of heat, so it's easy to accumulate 45 minutes (or longer) with cool-down breaks in between.
What is the difference between a sauna and an infrared sauna?
The primary differences between traditional (or conventional) saunas and infrared saunas are their temperatures and heating methods.
How does an infrared sauna compare to a traditional sauna?
Key differences: Traditional saunas heat the air first. Infrared saunas use infrared light to penetrate and heat the body directly. Infrared saunas use less heat. Infrared sauna benefits: Increased comfort. Easier to use at home.
Why do people use saunas?
Saunas are used for various purposes, including detoxification, relaxation, and, increasingly, to help treat or prevent various health conditions. Studies have shown that regular sauna use can improve pain and mood, reduce the risk of developing heart disease and Alzheimer’s, and even increase longevity [ 1, 2, 3.
What temperature is an infrared sauna?
The range of heat used in infrared saunas is usually between 113 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit [ 15 ]. In other words, the highest temperature used in an infrared sauna is more than 30 degrees lower than the lowest temperature used in a traditional sauna.
How does an infrared sauna work?
In comparison, infrared saunas work by emitting infrared radiation or light. Infrared light is invisible to the human eye and is experienced as heat.
What is sauna used for?
Saunas are used for various purposes, including detoxification, relaxation, and, increasingly, ...
Why is infrared sauna so comfortable?
Increased comfort. Because the air inside an infrared sauna gets less hot, you may be able to spend more time inside with less discomfort. If you know that you have difficulty withstanding high levels of heat, this option may make it easier for you to reap the benefits of a longer sauna session.
How hot is an infrared sauna?
Since these saunas don’t impact the room’s air, IR saunas are relatively cool compared to their traditional counterparts clocking in at 120-140°F (49-60°C). However, the air temperature in IR saunas is almost irrelevant considering the IR is directly heating you and not the air. If a traditional sauna is uncomfortably hot for you, but you still want those health benefits, you can consider trying an infrared sauna that operates at a much lower temperature.
Why do saunas use more energy than infrared saunas?
However, it is reasonable to say that, on average, traditional saunas use more energy than infrared saunas because they have to heat the entire space by bringing water to its boiling point.
How does an infrared sauna work?
Infrared saunas work by heating your body directly with the infrared wavelength of the electromagnetic spectrum. Don’t be alarmed by this technical language, it sounds like it could be dangerous, but we’re in the territory of technology that is well tested and safe for normal use. In fact, you experience the infrared wavelength every day from the sun. Your body absorbs the infrared wavelength of light, and it heats you up directly instead of the room and air around you.
How does a sauna work?
Traditional saunas work by heating rocks and the air within the sauna room. The most “traditional” heating method of heat production is the use of a wood-burning stove to generate heat. Of course, this old-school heat source for traditional saunas has given way to electric heaters mostly. The method of heat production doesn’t matter so much here as what happens to that heat: typically it’s pumped into the space or used to heat some rocks or stones that hold that heat and allow it to build up in the space.
What temperature should a sauna be?
Traditional saunas traditionally operate between 155-230°F (68-110°C). The heating of sauna stones maintains this high temperature. The heat from the sauna stones transfers to the room’s air to provide a pleasantly even temperature. With a temperature this warm, you will be sweating right away.
How long does it take to get a sauna to warm up?
However, they require a warm-up period to get the sauna to ideal temperatures for user enjoyment. Traditional saunas typically take around 40 minutes to reach temperatures around 155°F (68°C), which is considered warm enough to use by many. If you desire higher temperatures, you have to wait much longer for the sauna to stabilize the higher heat levels.
How humid is a sauna?
Traditional Finnish saunas are usually kept at a humidity level between 20 and 40%. Traditional saunas have heated saunas rocks traditionally located in a somewhat central spot in the room. The sauna occupants can use a bucket of water with a ladle to splash water on the stones to increase the humidity. Therefore, anyone within the sauna can adjust the humidity to their desired comfort level.
WHAT IS AN INFRARED SAUNA?
This is a cabin made of natural wood, mainly softwood, resistant to high temperatures. It contains carbon heaters that emit infrared heat waves. The range of heatwaves is selected in such a way that they in no way can harm a person. Infrared waves heat objects, but they do not heat the air in the sauna.
BENEFITS OF THE INFRARED SAUNA
The regular sauna heats the body inwards while the modern infrared alternative heats the body from the inside. The rays reach deep within the body and affect more organs.
WHAT IS A TRADITIONAL DRY SAUNA?
Traditional dry saunas rely on a physical source of heat, typically a stove. It could be wood-burning or electric. The air humidity is minimal (20-30%) while the air temperature can reach more than 100℃.
BENEFITS OF THE TRADITIONAL DRY SAUNA
The high temperature of the dry sauna produces a pore opening process, allowing toxins to leave the body.
DISADVANTAGES
Infrared radiation can also have a negative effect if the procedure is abused. Or, when you visit the sauna during illness, against the advice or without consulting your doctor. An increase in the time spent in the booth can lead to overloading of the heart muscles and dehydration of the body.
ADVANTAGES OF AN INFRARED SAUNA COMPARED TO A TRADITIONAL DRY SAUNA
Quick preparation - about five minutes. The duration of the procedure from the moment of changing clothes to taking a shower is about 40 minutes. In many salons, the service is called the “lunch break procedure”.
FINAL WORDS
Despite the clear differences, both traditional sauna and infrared sauna serve the same purpose. Both will have a positive impact on your body and health. Yet, research has proven that infrared does enhance these typical benefits.
How does infrared sauna compare?
The ambient temperature is normally much lower, between 40º-60ºC. However, the penetrating nature of infrared heat makes you sweat profusely, and your thermoregulatory system responds in a similar (but not identical) way.
Where does the heat come from in an infrared sauna?
The heat in an infrared sauna comes from panels on the walls. From shutterstock.com
What temperature does an infrared sauna go to?
The ambient temperature is normally much lower, between 40º-60ºC. However, the penetrating nature of infrared heat makes you sweat profusely, and your thermoregulatory system responds in a similar (but not identical) way.
How long does an infrared sauna last?
Typically you will begin to sweat quickly, but the lower temperature means a lower heart rate. Sessions in an infrared sauna can often last for around 30-45 minutes. This is why some people suggest that it is more comfortable, and potentially safer. The heat in an infrared sauna comes from panels on the walls.
What is the take home message of sauna?
In the meantime, the take-home message is to use whatever sauna you like. Try different things, and listen to your body. Maybe you prefer the calm, private, softer nature of infrared sauna. Or maybe you prefer the fuller sensory experience of traditional sauna, including the heat, the steam, the smell, and the people.
How old are saunas?
Saunas are at least 2,000 years old, and have been a popular social activity in many cultures. The European type has become the traditional sauna we know today – a room with wooden walls and a large stove. The defining characteristic is the use of water to create steam over a pile of hot rocks.
Is sauna better than sauna?
Any sauna is better than no sauna. While infrared is gaining popularity, research is lacking, and the vast majority of published research relates to traditional sauna (which itself is limited in terms of strong evidence). The closest thing we have to comparative evidence is a recent systematic review – the first to compare studies ...
What is infrared sauna?
Unlike traditional saunas, which use steam to encourage sweating, in infrared saunas heat waves permeate the body and increase the core temperature, which then results in sweating.
How much does an infrared sauna cost?
Since infrared saunas heat up faster, they are generally used for less time and so the cost averages out to $.18 an hour for a two-person sauna. The purchase and installation cost of traditional saunas can range from $3,000 for the smaller models to upwards of $11,000 for larger models.
How many amps does a sauna use?
These generally use a 4.5 kW heater, 240 volt, 1 phase power which draws 18.8 amps and requires a dedicated line and breaker.
How long does it take to heat an infrared sauna?
If you prefer to wait for maximum heat, that generally takes no longer than 15 minutes. Infrared saunas are also smaller, easier to install and very user friendly. Some infrared saunas even incorporate colored light therapy, sound systems and full-glass fronts for a more private escape.
How long does it take for a sauna to heat up?
Cons: Since they rely on wood fires, which can take some time to reach maximum heat, it may take as long as 30-40 minutes for the sauna to fully heat up. Also, wood burning saunas are the least convenient of all as they require continual cleaning to avoid a build-up of ashes and a continual supply of wood.
What is the purpose of sauna?
As the Finnish word “sauna” translates most closely to “bath” in English, it’s not surprising to realize that the purpose of the sauna was to cleanse the body, inside and out, by promote intense sweating. As the pores are open and the body sweats, it flushes out built up toxins, helping to improve overall health.
How does a sauna work in Finland?
In this type of sauna, the stones become super heated by the fire and the heat emanates into the room. The heat and humidity level can be regulated by pouring water over the stones, which produces steam.
Which is better, a wood burning sauna or an infrared sauna?
In this scenario, an infrared sauna is best for you. Maybe you are more of a fan of the traditional feel of a sauna. You enjoy the smell of wood and therapeutic bursts of steam during your session. In this case, a wood-burning sauna would better suit your needs.
Why is it safe to use a sauna indoors?
Here are a few reasons why placing a sauna indoors is perfectly fine: You will not have to worry about flooding or humidity issues due to proper insulation. As long as your sauna has wiring for 220 volts, you will not have to worry about electrical problems.
Why does a sauna take so long to warm up?
Because basements are usually not insulated, the warm-up time for your sauna may take a little longer.
Why is the Himalayan salt wall panel so popular?
The Almost Heaven Himalayan Salt Wall Panel is a must-have because it strengthens your immune system. It also helps you get better sleep and works wonders for your respiratory system. The best part is that you reap the wonderful healing effects while enjoying a little steam therapy.
Can you use a sauna without fire?
Luckily for you, indoor saunas function optimally without flooding, fire, or electrical issues. You can relax in pure bliss without worrying about the safety of your home. Maybe you have questions about what type of flooring you should use or where your sauna should actually go. Conveniently, most areas and types of flooring will do just fine ...
Can you take a sauna apart?
If you already built your sauna on a lower level, taking your sauna apart is simple and painless. As an added bonus, you will put it back together much quicker due to familiarity.
Can you use a sauna in a basement?
INDOOR SAUNA IN BASEMENT. The basement is an awesome area for sauna placement. Not only does it provide a getaway inside the home, but it also saves room space at the same time. Remember the following tips if you decide to use your basement: Make sure that there is no dampness in your basement.
How To Convert an Infrared Sauna to a Hotter Traditional Steam Sauna
Infrared saunas lack steam and top out around 120-130 degrees F. After experiencing an authentic sauna, many IR owners start to ask if they can convert the boxes to traditional saunas.
sauna
a bath that uses dry heat to induce perspiration, and in which steam is produced by pouring water on heated stones.
What is the difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna?
Probably the most fundamental difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna is the manner in which the sauna provides heat. An infrared sauna radiates infrared (non-visable) light at wavelength that will be directly absorbed by the body. A traditional sauna heats the air inside the sauna which, in turn, heats the body.
Why are infrared saunas so popular?
Both infrared and traditional saunas offer similar health benefits because they both are effective ways to raise your core body temperature. The infrared sauna tends to be quicker to use and more convenient. The Traditional sauna allows for steam and a fuller, richer experience.
What are the advantages of infrared saunas?
Humidity. One clear advantage that traditional saunas have over infrared saunas is the ability to control humidity. Traditional sauna heaters utilize a bed of rocks on top of the heat source to allow users to produce steam as desired.
How does an infrared sauna work?
What is meant by this is that the infrared rays emitted by the panels pass through the air, through your clothes or towel, through you skin and directly into your body. This is because the wavelength of infrared sauna is specifically matched to be absorbed by the body.
What is the smallest sauna?
Both traditional saunas and infrared saunas come in a range of sizes, but you will find that the smallest saunas will typically be infrared saunas and the largest saunas will typically be traditional saunas. Infrared saunas contain flat infrared heating panels that are typically built into the wall.
How many people can use an infrared sauna?
For the most part, infrared saunas usually max out at 6 people per saunas. This infrared sauna from Dynamic Saunas is among the largest (and most expensive) on the market.
How big is a single person infrared sauna?
This single person infrared sauna, by JNH Lifestyles is among the smallest saunas on the market. It only occupies a space measuring 3’ by 3’.
Heat
- Probably the most fundamental difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna is the manner in which the sauna provides heat. An infrared sauna radiates infrared (non-visable) light at wavelength that will be directly absorbed by the body. A traditional sauna heats the air inside the sauna which, in turn, heats the body.
Humidity
- One clear advantage that traditional saunas have over infrared saunas is the ability to control humidity. Traditional sauna heaters utilize a bed of rocks on top of the heat source to allow users to produce steam as desired. Typically the sauna user will keep a bucket of water and a ladle to pour water onto the heated rocks creating steam. Sometimes traditional saunas are even referre…
Size
- Both traditional saunas and infrared saunas come in a range of sizes, but you will find that the smallest saunas will typically be infrared saunas and the largest saunas will typically be traditional saunas. Infrared saunas contain flat infrared heating panels that are typically built into the wall. A small single person sauna can be about the size of a phone booth. (For purposes of this article …
Convenience
- Preheat Time: Infrared Saunas Take Less Time to Heat Up
You should preheat your sauna before getting in. Infrared saunas require less preheating time, so they clearly have the edge in this regard. An infrared sauna should be preheated to at least 115℉ before using. This will take about 15 minutes. (You technically don’t need to preheat an infrared … - Time In Sauna: Traditional Saunas Sessions Take Longer
Your traditional sauna session will be about 15 to20 minutes. An infrared sauna session will be about 30 to 40 minutes. You might want to spend longer amounts of time in the sauna, simply because you enjoy it and find it relaxing. But in terms of convenience, if you need to save time, t…
Experience and Atmosphere
- Yes, most infrared saunas can be used by 2 or more people at the same time. And 2 or more people can certainly chat in an infrared sauna. But traditional saunas have been communal for literally thousands of years. In parts of the world, the traditional sauna has served the same social function as the local pub. The Infrared Sauna cannot compete with the social aspect of the tradi…
and The Winner Is…
- The TRADITIONAL SAUNA. While providing the same health benefits as the infrared sauna, the traditional sauna provides an experience and atmosphere that is more fulfilling than the in-and-out nature of the infrared sauna. The presence of steam and the ability to control it is a big deal. The traditional sauna feelsmore organic. And you just can’t help but feel the history of the traditional …