How Do Infrared Saunas Differ from Traditional Saunas?
author: Jerry
2023-10-27
How Do Infrared Saunas Differ from Traditional Saunas?
The most essential difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna is the heating method. With the continuous advancement of technology, our lifestyle has also undergone great changes. Infrared saunas are the product of technological progress. They are smaller, better therapeutic and more advanced than traditional saunas.
Are all saunas infrared?
There are not only infrared saunas in the world, but infrared saunas are the product of modern technological progress. The traditional sauna can be traced back to ancient times. The sauna was invented in Finland. The traditional Finnish sauna is famous for its high temperature and dry heat, providing a unique sauna experience. Its working principle and effect are different from the traditional Finnish sauna. But they all contribute to physical relaxation and physical and mental health.

Traditional sauna
How it works: A traditional sauna is a dry-heat sauna that creates high temperatures by heating a sealed room, usually using a hot stone oven or wood burning. This high temperature heats the indoor air and then produces a thermal therapeutic effect through conduction to the human body.
Temperature: Traditional saunas usually maintain a high temperature between 80 and 100 degrees Celsius.
Humidity: Traditional saunas are dry and hot, and the indoor humidity is relatively low.
How it works: In a traditional sauna, people usually sit or lie down in a hot room to feel the high temperature and dry air, which encourages the body to sweat.
Heat therapy effect: Traditional sauna uses high temperature and sweating to promote body relaxation, promote circulation, reduce muscle tension and other effects. It also helps clean pores and improve skin quality.
Infrared sauna
How it works: Infrared saunas use infrared radiation, a type of electromagnetic radiation, to directly heat the body with infrared wavelengths similar to sunlight, rather than heating the air. This heat is generated by infrared sauna heaters.
Types of infrared sauna heaters: There are generally two types, 1. Carbon fiber heaters: These heaters are usually made of carbon fiber or panels. They emit a wider range of infrared heat and are considered more suitable for extended sauna use. Carbon fiber heaters are known for their even heat distribution. 2. Ceramic heater: Ceramic heater is made of ceramic rods or plates. They emit infrared heat in a more concentrated manner. While they can get very hot, some users may find them less suitable for prolonged use

Temperature: The temperature of an infrared sauna is usually lower, generally between 40 and 60 degrees Celsius, because its heat therapy effect mainly comes from infrared radiation rather than high temperature.
Humidity: Infrared saunas are relatively dry, but the humidity is usually higher than traditional saunas.
How it works: In an infrared sauna, people usually sit in front of infrared radiation sources, which shine on the body and heat the skin directly instead of the air, creating a heat therapy effect.
Thermal therapy effect: Infrared sauna penetrates the skin with gentle infrared radiation, helping to relieve muscle pain, improve joint flexibility, promote blood circulation and reduce inflammation. It can also provide a comfortable feeling similar to sunlight.
The above can be summarized into a table:
|
Feature
|
Traditional Sauna
|
Infrared Sauna
|
|
Heating Method
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Uses electric or wood stoves to heat the air and rocks, generating steam by pouring water on rocks.
|
Uses infrared heaters to directly heat the body and objects.
|
|
Temperature Range
|
Typically between 80°C to 100°C (176°F to 212°F).
|
Usually between 50°C to 70°C (122°F to 158°F).
|
|
Humidity
|
Low humidity, dry environment.
|
Low humidity, relatively dry.
|
|
Heat Source
|
Traditional heating sources like electric stoves or wood stoves.
|
Infrared heaters.
|
|
Suitable for
|
Suitable for those who can tolerate high-temperature and dry conditions. Not recommended for individuals with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or pregnant women.
|
Suitable for a wider range of people, including those who can't tolerate high heat.
|
|
Effects
|
Helps with deep relaxation, promotes circulation, relieves muscle pain, and enhances the immune system.
|
Offers deep heating effects, helps alleviate joint pain, and improves skin health.
|
How to choose your infrared sauna?
Infrared saunas are generally made for indoor use, but some sauna manufacturers offer outdoor infrared saunas. Here are some suggestions:
Determine space and budget: First, determine the space where you plan to place your infrared sauna. Measure the dimensions of the space to make sure the infrared sauna will fit in your location. Also determine your budget range, which will help narrow down your choices.
Infrared Heater Types: Learn about the different types of infrared heaters, such as carbon fiber and ceramic. Various heater types have different features and heating methods, so you can choose the one that suits your needs.
Brands and Manufacturers: Choose a reputable infrared sauna manufacturer and brand. Check out customer reviews, recommendations, and ratings to find out how satisfied other users are with their products. Alphasauna is recommended here. Alphasauna is a professional sauna manufacturer. Support customized infrared sauna room.
Infrared power and heating coverage area: Consider the heating power and heating coverage area of your infrared sauna. Generally, larger rooms may require more power to maintain the desired temperature.
Control Panel: Check the control panel of your infrared sauna. Make sure it's easy to use and can adjust the temperature and time. Some advanced systems may also offer preset programs and temperature sensors.
What are you waiting for, come and buy your infrared sauna! Alphasauna offers custom infrared saunas, traditional saunas, and more! Come and join Alphasauna.



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