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When it comes to saunas, there are several different types to choose from, each with their own unique benefits. Two of the most popular types of saunas are traditional Finnish-style steam saunas, and the newer and more modern infrared saunas.
In this article, we'll explore the differences between steam saunas (and rooms) and infrared saunas and provide insights into which type of sauna may be the best choice for your health and wellness goals.
A traditional steam sauna, also known as a wet sauna (not a steam room), works by generating steam to create a hot and humid environment. This creates a moist heat for a relaxing and therapeutic experience. The steam is created by pouring water over heated rocks. As the water vapor fills the room, the humidity level increases.
To ensure safety and comfort, steam rooms, which some people call steam saunas, typically have controls that allow users to adjust the temperature and humidity levels, ranging from 100-120°F. Some steam rooms also include features such as chromotherapy lighting or aromatherapy to enhance the sauna experience. Traditional steam saunas typically have heater controls that allow users to adjust the temperature, combined with pouring water on the rocks for humidity from the steam, with sauna temperatures ranging from 160-200°F.
Unlike traditional saunas that use hot rocks or steam to create heat, infrared saunas use infrared radiation to create a therapeutic sauna experience.
Infrared radiation is a type of light on the electromagnetic spectrum that our eyes can't see, but our bodies can feel as heat.
The infrared heaters in an infrared sauna typically emit three different wavelengths of infrared radiation: near, mid, and far. Each of these wavelengths has different benefits for the body.
Near-infrared radiation can help to improve skin health and promote wound healing. Mid-infrared radiation can help to improve circulation and reduce pain and inflammation. Far-infrared radiation can help to promote relaxation and detoxification.
The temperature in an infrared sauna is typically lower than in a traditional sauna, ranging from 100-140°F. However, because the heat is generated by the infrared radiation, it penetrates deeper into the body, providing a more intense and therapeutic sauna experience.
Steam Saunas and Steam Rooms - In a steam room, the high 100% humidity can be particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies. With both the steam sauna and steam room the moist air can help to soothe the respiratory system and promote easier breathing.
The humidity in both traditional steam saunas and steam rooms can also help to improve skin health by opening the pores and allowing for deeper cleansing and detoxification. A steam sauna’s main benefit is that it can provide a relaxing and therapeutic sauna experience that can promote relaxation, improve respiratory health (1) and promote overall wellness.
Infrared Saunas - One of the biggest benefits of infrared saunas is that they produce a dry heat, which can be more comfortable than the high heat of a steam sauna and penetrate deeper into the body.
Infrared saunas also help to improve circulation by increasing blood flow to the skin and muscles, which can be particularly helpful for people with arthritis or muscle pain. Moreover, infrared saunas can reduce pain and stiffness by promoting muscle recovery, making it a great option for athletes or people with chronic pain.
In addition, infrared saunas help to promote relaxation by reducing stress levels and improving mood. This can be particularly beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety or depression. Lastly, infrared saunas can help to improve skin health by promoting collagen production and increasing blood flow to the skin. This helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and promote a healthy, glowing complexion.
Infrared saunas appear to have the therapeutic most benefits for frequent sauna use. Infrared radiation penetrates deeper into the body, promoting relaxation, improved circulation, pain relief, and detoxification.
Not only that, but they are easier and less expensive to operate than a steam sauna. Browse Divine Saunas today to learn more about the differences between traditional and infrared saunas. By choosing a reliable and high-quality brand, you can enjoy all the health benefits of infrared saunas in the comfort of your own home.
Steam saunas create a specific therapeutic environment, however, and individuals looking for the traditional Finnish experience may enjoy using a traditional sauna more.
While many infrared saunas use chromotherapy and aromatherapy to boost the environmental appeal similar to the traditional experience, the use of hot rocks and steam to create heat, along with the characteristic wood-paneled design, create a cozy and inviting sauna environment that many people enjoy.
With a commitment to quality craftsmanship, stunning design, and exceptional customer service, Divine Saunas is your go-to source for finding the right high-end saunas for your home. Whether you are looking to take your wellness routine to the next level, or want a place to relax at the end of the day, we help you make an informed decision up-front.
Take a look at our traditional Finnish saunas, or our Health Mate infrared saunas and compare the differences today.
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Infrared saunas offer a range of unique and therapeutic benefits, from improved circulation and pain relief to detoxification and relaxation. With so many options on the market, choosing the right infrared sauna for your home can be a daunting task.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different factors to consider when buying an infrared sauna.
With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the best infrared sauna for your needs.
Whether you're looking for a basic model or a luxury sauna with advanced features, this guide will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect infrared sauna for your home.
