Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna — What’s the Difference?

Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna: What Is the Difference?

Saunas have been used for more than 2,000 years, and this tradition appears in cultures around the world. Finnish saunas, indigenous sweat lodges throughout the Americas, Roman and Turkish bathhouses, Russian banyas, Korean jjimjilbang, and Japanese mushi-buro all share a common intention: supporting healing, purification, rest, and spiritual connection. For generations, saunas have served as both wellness and community spaces.

Many people are familiar with traditional saunas found in gyms, spas, and homes. Their continued popularity comes from benefits that are supported by both long-standing tradition and modern research. In recent years, a newer option has become increasingly popular: the infrared sauna. Although the two share similarities, the way they heat the body is very different. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option for your wellness goals.

How Traditional Saunas Work

Traditional saunas use an electric or wood-burning heater to warm the air, typically to temperatures between 150 and 195 degrees Fahrenheit. Your body heats up indirectly by being inside the hot room. This rise in temperature triggers sweating, increases circulation, and activates cardiovascular responses that support detoxification and overall wellness.

For some people, these high temperatures can feel intense or overwhelming. Others enjoy the deep, enveloping heat and the rapid onset of sweating.

How Infrared Saunas Work

Infrared saunas build on the ancient sauna tradition using modern technology. Instead of heating the air, they use infrared light waves to gently warm the body from within. Infrared light is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, positioned just beyond visible red light. It produces radiant heat that penetrates the skin and soft tissues approximately one to one and a half inches deep.

Your cells absorb this infrared energy, especially within the mitochondria, the structures responsible for cellular energy production. This internal warming increases circulation, boosts metabolism, and stimulates natural heat production from the inside out.

Because the body is generating heat internally, core temperature rises even though the surrounding room remains much cooler than a traditional sauna. Infrared saunas typically operate between 110 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Many people find these temperatures more comfortable, yet they often produce a significant sweat response. This can support detoxification, circulation, and muscle recovery in a gentler environment.

Full-Spectrum Infrared at Whole Health Center

At Whole Health Center, we use the Golden Designs Reserve Edition Infrared Sauna with integrated red light therapy and a Himalayan Salt Bar. We selected this model because it provides a full-spectrum infrared experience that includes three distinct wavelengths, each offering unique benefits.

• Near Infrared (NIR) 0.7 to 1.4 μm: Often used for skin rejuvenation and cellular repair

• Mid Infrared (MIR) 1.4 to 3 μm: Helpful for improving circulation and supporting soft tissue healing

• Far Infrared (FIR) 3 to 1000 μm: Effective for deep tissue warming and detoxification

This combination creates a versatile and comprehensive experience that supports overall wellness.

The Himalayan Salt Bar

Our infrared sauna also includes a gently heated Himalayan Salt Bar, which offers additional supportive properties.

Negative Ions
When warmed, Himalayan salt releases negative ions. These ions may help neutralize positive ions from electronics and environmental pollutants. Many people find that negative ions create a calming effect and promote clearer thinking. They are naturally present in environments such as forests, waterfalls, and ocean air.

Air Purification
Himalayan salt may have mild antimicrobial qualities. When heated, it may help freshen the air and provide a subtle respiratory benefit similar to halotherapy, although at a lower intensity.

Skin Health
Warm salt can help create a clean, soothing environment for the skin. Some people notice improvements in dryness, acne, or irritation due to reduced surface bacteria and inflammation.

Mineral Exposure
Himalayan salt contains trace minerals including magnesium, calcium, and potassium. While absorption through the skin is minimal, many people find direct contact with the salt grounding and comforting.

A Relaxing Shared Experience

Our infrared sauna comfortably accommodates two people, making it a restorative wellness experience you can share. Whether you use it to unwind, support muscle recovery, enhance detoxification, or complement other treatments such as acupuncture or massage, infrared sauna therapy provides a gentle and effective way to care for your body.