Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Saunas- Health Benefits, Comparison

What Are Infrared Saunas?

Infrared saunas are a type of sauna that uses light to create heat. This form of sauna is becoming increasingly popular because it is thought to be more effective than traditional saunas. Infrared saunas work by heating the body directly rather than heating the air around the body. This causes you to sweat more, resulting in a deeper, more detoxifying sweat. Additionally, infrared saunas can be used at lower temperatures, which some people find to be more comfortable. Infrared saunas have many benefits, including improved circulation, relief from muscle pain, and reduced stress levels. 

Although infrared saunas are effective for some people, they should always be used under medical supervision. People with cardiovascular and respiratory problems should seek medical advice before using one. People who take certain medications should also talk to their doctors before using them. Beta-blockers, diuretics, and barbiturates can hinder sweat production. In addition, people who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs should not use an infrared sauna.

Health Benefits of Infrared Saunas

1) Reduce Inflammation

Infrared saunas can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. [2] They can also boost muscle mass when used in conjunction with a regular workout program. Researchers have also found that infrared is safe enough for use. [3]

2) Positive Effect On Mood

Infrared saunas have many benefits, including improved mood and better sleep. They can also improve the health of your skin and joints. While the benefits of saunas are still being researched, this technology is gaining popularity in gyms and spas across the world. Aside from a positive effect on mood, regular use of an infrared sauna can reduce the risk of colds and flu. [4]

3) Better Muscle Recovery

In addition to their benefits for the skin and joints, infrared saunas can also help with muscle recovery. This is especially beneficial for athletes who are looking to improve their performance. Researchers have found that infrared saunas can help reduce DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness).[5] They can also improve circulation and increase blood flow to muscles.

4) Improve Circulation

Infrared saunas help improve circulation throughout the body. Infrared waves can promote the release of nitric oxide, a powerful vasodilator. This boost in circulation helps reduce pain and swelling. For those with muscular pain, infrared saunas can relieve muscle soreness. Researchers have also found that infrared waves can reduce LDL and triglycerides associated with cardiovascular disease.[6]

5) Long lasting

Another benefit of an infrared sauna is the reduced room temperature because this type of sauna doesn't have to heat the air before heating the user. This means that infrared saunas can be more comfortable and you can spend a longer time than in a traditional sauna. Infrared saunas can be used safely, even if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

6) Lesser Risk Of Common Cold And Flu

If you are looking for a way to boost your immune system, then an infrared sauna can be a good investment. According to one study, people who used an infrared sauna significantly decreased the number of days they were sick with a cold or the flu.[7]

7) Detoxification

One of the most popular benefits of an infrared sauna is its ability to help remove toxins from the body. The sweating that occurs during an infrared sauna session can help rid the body of heavy metals, including lead and mercury.[8] It can also remove other toxins, such as alcohol, pesticides, and chemicals.

8) Pain Relief

If you suffer from chronic pain, an infrared sauna can provide relief. The infrared waves heat can help increase blood flow and relax muscles. This can lead to a decrease in pain and stiffness. Infrared saunas can also help with other types of pain, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, and arthritis.[9]

9) Weight Loss

While the jury is still out on whether or not infrared saunas can help with weight loss, some people believe they can. The heat from the sauna can cause your body to burn calories. And, the increased sweating can help to remove water weight. If you want to lose weight, combining an infrared sauna with a healthy diet and exercise program is important.

10) Relaxation

One of the best benefits of an infrared sauna is that it can help you relax. The sauna's heat can help improve blood circulation and ease muscle tension. This can lead to a feeling of relaxation. Infrared saunas, therefore, can also help improve sleep quality. Spending time in an infrared sauna can help you relax and fall asleep more easily.[10]

What Is A Traditional Sauna

Where are all of these toxins coming from? We come into contact with heavy metals in all sorts of ways. Foods can be one source. An example is the potential of mercury poisoning from eating lots of fish. Water sources can also be a problem. For example, the recent toxic levels of lead in Flint Michigan. We are exposed through our medicine, food containers, and many through industrial types of work. 

Health Benefits of Traditional Saunas

The high temperature of a sauna promotes the production of white blood cells, which fight off infections and foreign particles. A higher white blood cell count means your immune system functions more effectively. Moreover, the heat in a sauna breaks down the lipid layer that protects viruses.[12] Therefore, a regular sauna session can boost the immune system and make people feel better. It can also improve skin health. If you have any skin condition or allergies, it is important to consult a dermatologist before using a sauna. Public saunas can be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can cause skin conditions.

1) De-stress

One of the most well-known benefits of saunas is that they can help you relax and de-stress. After a long day at work or taking care of the kids, spending some time in a sauna can help you relax your muscles and clear your mind. The sauna's heat can also help improve blood circulation and ease tension headaches.[11]

2) Production of White Blood Cells

The heat produced by saunas helps relieve stress, increase blood flow, and reduce tension in the joints and muscles. They can also help reduce arthritis and chronic pain. Because they relax the muscles, they can relieve stress. While the effects of stress aren't completely understood, traditional saunas are said to improve cardiovascular health and improve mental health.

3) Suitable For Those With Chronic Conditions

Some studies show that traditional saunas can help people with chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.[13] They can also help those with peripheral artery disease improve their blood flow. Additionally, they can help people with chronic fatigue syndrome reduce their stress and improve their mood. Furthermore, saunas may also relieve aches and pains.

4) May Help You Sleep Better

Saunas can also help you sleep better. The heat of the sauna can relax your muscles and promote deep sleep. In one study, people with insomnia who used a sauna for 30 minutes every day slept better and felt more rested than those who didn't use a sauna.[14] If you have trouble sleeping, spending some time in a sauna may help you get the rest you need.

The Similarities Between Infrared Saunas and Traditional Saunas

While the differences between traditional saunas and infrared saunas are vast, there are similarities between both as well. Both are designed to provide similar health benefits to their users. Infrared saunas heat the air directly, which is more comfortable for people who have sensitive skin. Both infrared and traditional saunas use warmth to relax muscles and promote detoxification, and both can be used for a variety of health benefits. In addition, both types of saunas can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from public spas to private homes.

The Differences Between Infrared Saunas and Traditional Saunas

There are also many differences between infrared saunas and traditional saunas.

1) Heat:

Infrared saunas heat the body directly, while traditional saunas heat the air around the body. This makes infrared saunas more efficient and allows them to reach higher temperatures more quickly.

2) Sweating:

Because infrared saunas heat the body directly, they cause people to sweat more quickly. On the other hand, traditional saunas heat the air around the body, which takes longer to make people sweat.

3) Relaxation:

Because of the lower temperatures, infrared saunas are said to be more relaxing than traditional saunas. The lower temperatures in infrared saunas allow people to stay in them for longer periods of time without feeling uncomfortable.

4) Health Benefits:

While both traditional saunas and infrared saunas offer a variety of health benefits, infrared saunas are said to be more beneficial for some conditions. For example, infrared saunas are said to be more effective at relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation.

5) Cost:

Infrared saunas are generally more expensive than traditional saunas. This is because they use more advanced technology and require less energy to operate.

6) Safety:

Both traditional saunas and infrared saunas are considered safe when used as directed. However, infrared saunas are said to be more gentle on the body and may be a better option for those with certain health conditions.

7) Maintenance:

Infrared saunas require less maintenance than traditional saunas. This is because traditional saunas tend to generate a large amount of moisture, which requires more frequent cleaning and poses a risk of mold. Infrared saunas have fewer cleaning requirements and can be easily maintained.

8) Weight Loss:

While both saunas can help you lose weight, infrared saunas are said to be more effective. This is because they cause you to sweat more and burn more calories.

9) Pregnant women:

Pregnant women should not use traditional saunas. However, they can use infrared saunas. This is because the lower temperatures in infrared saunas are not as dangerous for pregnant women.

10) Type Of Heater:

The big difference between traditional saunas and infrared saunas is the type of heater used. Traditional steam saunas are much larger than infrared saunas. They also require thicker walls and insulation than infrared saunas.

11) Use Of Electricity:

Because of their higher temperatures, traditional saunas require more electricity than infrared saunas. Typically, a traditional sauna requires 4.5-6 kW of power to operate, while an infrared sauna uses just 1.5-1.7 kW of power. The latter option is more environmentally friendly than traditional saunas.

Infrared saunas have some advantages over traditional saunas. They are more comfortable, more efficient, and less expensive. However, traditional saunas have their advantages as well. They can be used in a variety of settings, and they offer a variety of health benefits. Whether you choose an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna, spending time in one can be a relaxing and beneficial experience. 

How Should You Choose Between Infrared Saunas and Traditional Saunas?

The decision of whether to choose an infrared sauna or a traditional sauna depends on a variety of factors. One important factor is the temperature that you prefer. Infrared saunas heat the body directly rather than heating the air around the body, so they typically reach lower temperatures than traditional saunas. An infrared sauna might be better if you prefer a lower temperature. Another consideration is the amount of time you have available. Infrared saunas typically take less time to heat up than traditional saunas, so if you only have a limited amount of time for your session, an infrared sauna might be more convenient.

Third, consider the cost of the sauna. Infrared saunas are typically more expensive than traditional saunas, so if cost is a concern, a traditional sauna might be the better option. Finally, think about the health benefits you are hoping to achieve. Both infrared and traditional saunas offer several health benefits, but some benefits are more associated with one type of sauna than the other. For example, infrared saunas are often said to be more effective for weight loss, while traditional saunas are thought to be better for relieving pain. 

If you are undecided about which type of sauna to choose, you might want to try both and see which one you prefer. Whichever type of sauna you choose, spending time in one is sure to be a relaxing and beneficial experience.

Conclusion

If you are interested in infrared saunas, you may want to start by learning about their heating mechanisms. Traditional saunas generate heat by heating air around the heater, while infrared saunas use infrared light to heat your body. Traditional saunas have high temperatures and can be overwhelming for people with sensitive skin. Infrared saunas produce a comfortable and dry heat. While traditional saunas cause profuse sweating, infrared saunas are more effective for deep perspiration. We hope this article helped you understand the difference between infrared and traditional saunas. Do you have any experience with either type of sauna? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Stay Healthy!

~ Dr. Candy