Historically, the word “sauna” has been used to refer to any heating device designed to induce heavy perspiration. It is generally agreed that Finnish saunas were the first of their kind, dating back to roughly 7000 Bc. Most traditional saunas date back to ancient times when the area was excavated, and stone was used to line the inside. Modern saunas are undeniably the first saunas that include electronics. This rule-breaker category has gained considerable traction in the past 40 years. Infrared provides many of the same health advantages as regular saunas, plus some additional perks. This post will discuss the differences between an infrared sauna and a traditional one. Keep reading to know which one is better!
Key Differences Between Traditional and Infrared Sauna
- Action
Infrared light-based saunas and conventional saunas employ opposite approaches to achieve their therapeutic effects. The air in a typical sauna is heated to such an extent that it induces a cooling response from the body. This involves increasing blood flow to the skin’s surface and dilating the sweat glands.
Infrared-based saunas use infrared lights absorbed by the body but not by the surrounding environment. Rather than subject yourself to a lengthy steaming session, this absorption kickstarts the same cooling process.
- Heat
Whether a regular sauna or an infrared modern sauna, intense heat is always a part of the experience. Typical saunas may reach upwards of 185 degrees Fahrenheit. Although this is an excellent method for eliciting the heavy perspiration that saunas promote, it may be too much for those with a lower tolerance for heat.
To avoid overheating the space, infrared light saunas direct their energy on warming the user rather than the air around them. The heat-sensitive will find that infrared light saunas maintain temperatures between 120 and 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Humidity
The humidity of a conventional sauna is, as one would think, significantly greater than that of an infrared-based sauna. According to proponents of the sauna, one of the advantages of a conventional sauna is the increased humidity. When you take a steam bath, your pores will open, and your skin will be able to rehydrate; plus, it will help you get a better night’s rest. Of course, infrared-based saunas don’t utilize steam. Therefore, the humidity is significantly lower. They instead use the sweating process to their advantage.
- Safe Use
You should take the same precautions while utilizing an infrared sauna as a standard one. You may expect to perspire heavily, so it’s important to replenish fluids before, during, and after your workout. There haven’t been a lot of studies done on infrared-light saunas yet because of how recently they have emerged in the health landscape. Preliminary research suggests they are safe to use, but it is still best to limit your intake. While taking a sauna at Lagree Fitness studio, consult with experts for better results.
- Detoxification
The conventional sauna’s high heat and humidity cause you to sweat heavily, promoting detoxification and weight reduction. This is all excellent news, but there is more to read. However, an infrared lights sauna achieves the same results by using infrared light waves that are invisible to the naked eye yet enter the body to increase the internal temperature gently. The wavelength of these waves, which ranges from 6 to 12 microns, is just right for being absorbed by the human body without any risk. Modern saunas are superior to traditional saunas for relieving stress and discomfort since
they heat the body from the inside out.
Which One to Choose?
Is an infrared-based sauna better than a regular sauna? You should base your decision on how you want to use it daily. An infrared sauna is the most cost-effective way to improve your health and relax without emptying your bank account. A traditional sauna is a way to go if you don’t have to worry about the cost and want the tried-and-true.