Saunas have been a part of traditional cultures for centuries, and today they are a popular way to relax and manage stress. But did you know there are different types of saunas available? Infrared and steam saunas offer unique health benefits, but which type is right for you?
In this article, we’ll discuss the advantages of each type of sauna and help you determine which one is best for your needs.
Sauna Health Benefits
Saunas are small rooms or spaces that are designed to promote perspiration and relaxation through the use of heat. Saunas have been used for centuries in various cultures worldwide and are believed to offer numerous health benefits. Some of the benefits of sauna use include:
- Improved cardiovascular health:
- Regular sauna use has been shown to improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, improving circulation, and lowering the risk of heart disease.
- Relieved muscle and joint pain:
- Saunas can help relieve muscle and joint pain by increasing blood flow to the affected area, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation.
- Increased relaxation and stress relief:
- Sauna use can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation by increasing the production of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals.
- Improved respiratory function:
- The heat and steam in a sauna can help improve respiratory function by opening airways and clearing mucus from the lungs.
- Improved skin health:
- Sauna use can help improve skin health by opening up pores, increasing blood flow, and promoting collagen production.
- Boosted immune function:
- Regular sauna use has been shown to boost immune function by increasing the production of white blood cells, which help fight off infections and diseases.
- Improved athletic performance:
- Saunas can help improve athletic performance by increasing endurance, reducing fatigue, and promoting faster recovery after exercise.
Infrared Saunas
Infrared saunas are gaining popularity due to their health benefits. They offer advantages over traditional steam saunas, such as improved relaxation and cardiovascular health. Comparing the two types of saunas regarding benefits, cost, and convenience can help determine which is best for you.
Steam Saunas
Steam saunas are a popular way to relax and improve well-being by utilizing high temperatures and humidity. They use hot air to create humidity, typically reaching temperatures around 100°F (38°C), which opens pores, expels toxins from the body, and relieves muscle soreness and tension headaches.
Comparison: Infrared vs. Steam
Infrared and steam saunas are two popular options for people looking to relax and enjoy the health benefits of a sauna. But how do the two compare? We’ll break down the differences between infrared and steam saunas, so you can decide which is correct.
Comparison table for Infrared vs. Steam
| Features | Infrared Saunas | Steam Saunas |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Lower (120-140°F) | Higher (100-120°F) |
| Humidity | Lower (10-20%) | Higher (100%) |
| Heating Method | Infrared lamps | Boiling water or electric heaters |
| Time to heat up | Faster (10-20 min) | Slower (20-30 min) |
| Benefits | – Deep tissue penetration – Detoxification – Improved skin health – Relaxation – Improved cardiovascular health | – May cause discomfort for those with respiratory issues – It can be challenging to breathe in high humidity – Requires frequent cleaning to prevent mold and mildew buildup |
| Cost | – Higher upfront cost – Lower operating cost | – Lower upfront cost – Higher operating cost |
| Maintenance | Little to no maintenance required | Regular cleaning required |
| Cons | – Can cause dehydration – May not be suitable for those with certain health conditions – May not be as effective for those with respiratory issues | – May cause discomfort for those with respiratory issues – It can be difficult to breathe in high humidity – Requires frequent cleaning to prevent mold and mildew buildup |
It’s important to note that the benefits and drawbacks may vary depending on individual preferences and health conditions. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider before using either type of sauna.
How to Choose a Good Infrared Sauna?
To choose an excellent infrared sauna, consider the size of the room and the materials used in construction. Infrared saunas offer dry heat penetrating more profound, making them better for relieving joint pain, muscle tension, and skin conditions. Look for more extended warranties, which usually indicate higher quality and better protection against defects.
Pros & Cons:
1. Infrared vs. steam sauna pros and cons:
The potential health benefits of using a sauna are often debated between infrared and steam saunas proponents. While both methods offer advantages, pros, and cons should be considered before deciding which type of sauna is best for your needs.
Pros: Infrared saunas use light waves to directly heat the body, while steam saunas use hot water vapor to generate heat and humidity. Proponents of infrared saunas claim they provide deeper penetration into the body’s tissues, leading to increased relaxation and detoxification.
Cons: On the downside, many find that they take longer than traditional steam saunas to warm up and can be more expensive due to their higher energy consumption.
First, you should look at your individual needs and preferences.
Pros: Steam saunas also have their own set of advantages and drawbacks. The most obvious advantage is their ability to provide a full-body steam bathing experience in less time than it takes for infrared saunas. Steam saunas are generally easier to use and maintain, in addition to being less expensive.
In addition, steam saunas are much more cost-effective and use less energy than infrared saunas.
Cons: Steam saunas are less effective at delivering a tremendous internal detoxification effect because steam saunas generate less dry heat than infrared saunas.
Differences between Infrared and Steam Saunas:
- Heat-up time:
- Infrared saunas take 15 minutes to heat, while steam saunas take 45 minutes.
- Running costs:
- Infrared saunas are more affordable in the short and long term, costing $30-$50 per month compared to up to $100 for steam saunas.
- Maintenance:
- Infrared saunas are more efficient and easier to maintain than steam saunas, requiring less energy and no additional ventilation.
- Infrared vs. steam sauna for weight loss:
- Infrared saunas offer more intense sweat and a comfortable temperature range without requiring much water or maintenance.
Conclusion:
The article Infrared vs. Steam Sauna Health Benefits concludes that both infrared and steam saunas offer a wide range of health benefits. Each type of sauna has its unique advantages, as well as its drawbacks.
A steam sauna may be the best choice for people looking for a more profound, more intense sweat session. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something gentler and less intense, then an infrared sauna may be best suited for your needs.
No matter which type of sauna you choose to use, many potential health benefits can be gained from regular use. It is important to remember that while these can provide numerous positive effects on your body and mind, it is necessary to always consult a medical professional before using either type of sauna to ensure safety and proper use.
Visit For more reading about Healing in Style by Hot Tub Patio and more information about Saunas.
FAQs:
Q. What are the cons of infrared saunas? A. It is important to remember that just because infrared saunas can provide some health benefits, they are safe for some. Infrared saunas should not be used during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or by anyone who is under the age of 18.
Q. Should you shower after the infrared sauna? A. Showering after using an infrared sauna is not necessary, but wiping off any excess sweat with a towel is recommended before leaving the sauna.
Q. Are infrared saunas safe? A. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved infrared saunas for home use. The FDA requires that all home saunas have a warning label stating that the sauna is not a substitute for proper medical care.
Q. How should infrared saunas be used? A. Infrared saunas are not a substitute for medical care. If you have any health concerns, you should consult your physician before using an infrared sauna.
Q. Do you get vitamin D from an infrared sauna? A. It is well known that the sun is a natural source of vitamin D. It has been suggested that exposure to infrared saunas can also increase vitamin D production in the body. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support this claim.
Q. How much vitamin D is available in the sun? A. The amount of vitamin D you can get from sunlight depends on the time of day, season, latitude, and geographic location.
Q. Can infrared sauna burn belly fat? A. Infrared sauna effectively reduce excess fat stored in the belly area. Regular infrared saunas are recommended for at least 30 minutes a day, three times a week. It also helps to combine heat treatments with exercise and a weight loss regimen. The fantastic, well-equipped gym is excellent value for money.
Q. Do infrared saunas detoxify your body? A. Infrared sauna is a technology that can help detoxify and rejuvenate the body. Infrared saunas have been shown to enhance the production of endorphins and increase blood circulation in the body.
Q. What is the difference between a regular and a Finnish sauna? A. There are two main differences: heat and duration. A Finnish sauna uses more heat than other saunas, allowing you to sweat more. A traditional sauna uses heat of around 180-200 degrees Fahrenheit to produce sweat. A Finnish sauna uses the heat of around 220-240 degrees F (approximately 110-115 Celsius), producing more profound, more intense sweat.
Q. How often should you use a steam sauna? A. You should use the sauna for 15-20 minutes at a time, with a rest period of 2 hours between sessions.
Q. Can I use my sauna if I have health problems? A. Yes! Our saunas are very safe to use if you have any health problems. However, in the case of serious illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, or pregnancy, we recommend consulting with your doctor before using a sauna for the first time.
Q. What is better, sauna or steam? A. Sauna and steam sauna are both good for your health. However, the sauna is easier to use and more comfortable.
Q. What should I wear when using a sauna? A. It depends on your comfort level. You can wear a swimsuit, wrap yourself in a towel, or wear nothing. It’s up to you!
Q. Is it reasonable to steam the sauna every day? A. The sauna is a great way to relax, detoxify and improve your health. Steam saunas are great too. All you need to do is get in the steam room, open your pores with essential oils, and keep your heart rate elevated for about 10 minutes.
Q. Can you get vitamin D from the infrared sauna? Yes, you can get vitamin D from an infrared sauna. This is because the infrared light emitted by the sauna helps your body produce vitamin D naturally.
Q. Which is better for the lungs, the sauna or steam? Infrared saunas are better than traditional saunas because they heat the body directly rather than heating the air around you. This allows for deeper penetration of heat and a more comfortable experience.
Q. What is the healthiest type of sauna? Infrared saunas are the healthiest type of sauna. They use infrared light to heat the body directly, which is believed to be beneficial for detoxification and circulation. They also tend to be more comfortable than traditional steam saunas, as they get less hot or humid.
