Understanding the Difference: Infrared Saunas vs. Traditional Saunas
At The Remedy Wellness Center, a common question we receive among many of our clients is, “What’s the difference between infrared saunas and traditional saunas?” Unpack the differences and learn why infrared saunas, in particular, have become a favored choice for wellness enthusiasts seeking relaxation, detoxification and rejuvenation.
Infrared Saunas vs. Traditional Saunas
Heat Source:
Infrared Saunas: Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to emit radiant heat, which is absorbed directly by the body. This type of heat penetrates deep into the skin, heating the body from the inside out.
Traditional Saunas: Traditional saunas rely on heated air and stones to produce high temperatures within the sauna room. The air temperature can reach much higher levels compared to infrared saunas.
Temperature:
Infrared Saunas: Infrared saunas typically operate at lower temperatures ranging from 120°F to 140°F (49°C to 60°C). Despite the lower air temperature, the radiant heat emitted by infrared heaters can still induce profuse sweating and provide therapeutic benefits.
Traditional Saunas: Traditional saunas can reach higher temperatures, often exceeding 160°F (71°C) or more. The intense heat in traditional saunas can be challenging for some individuals to tolerate, especially for extended periods.
Heat Distribution:
Infrared Saunas: Infrared saunas provide more even heat distribution throughout the sauna cabin, as the radiant heat is absorbed directly by the body. This allows for a comfortable and relaxing sauna experience without the sensation of suffocating heat.
Traditional Saunas: In traditional saunas, the heat is distributed unevenly, with higher temperatures near the ceiling and cooler temperatures closer to the floor. This can result in a more intense and localized heating experience.
Sweat Production:
Infrared Saunas: Despite operating at lower temperatures, infrared saunas can induce profuse sweating due to the deep penetration of radiant heat. This sweating helps detoxify the body and promote relaxation.
Traditional Saunas: Traditional saunas also promote sweating, primarily through the high air temperature. However, the intense heat can lead to a quicker onset of sweating compared to infrared saunas.
Infrared Sauna Sessions at The Remedy Wellness Center
As you bask in the gentle warmth of The Remedy's Infrared Sauna, you'll experience a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond relaxation. Here are some of the remarkable advantages of incorporating infrared sauna sessions into your wellness routine:
Detoxification: Unlike traditional saunas, which rely on high temperatures to induce sweating, infrared saunas use radiant heat to penetrate deep into the body, promoting detoxification at the cellular level. This gentle heat stimulates the release of toxins stored in fat cells, allowing your body to flush them out through sweat, leaving you feeling cleansed and rejuvenated.
Pain Relief: The therapeutic heat emitted by infrared saunas can help alleviate aches and pains associated with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and muscle soreness. By increasing blood flow to affected areas and relaxing tense muscles, infrared sauna therapy provides natural relief from discomfort and promotes faster recovery.
Stress Reduction: Stepping into the serene environment of an infrared sauna offers a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. The soothing warmth envelops you, melting away tension and promoting a state of deep relaxation. Regular sauna sessions can help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, leaving you feeling calmer and more centered.
Improved Circulation: The radiant heat of an infrared sauna causes your blood vessels to dilate, increasing circulation throughout your body. This enhanced blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to tissues more efficiently, promoting healing and revitalization. Improved circulation can also contribute to healthier skin, better cardiovascular function, and overall well-being.
Skin Health: Infrared sauna therapy is celebrated for its skin-rejuvenating effects, promoting a clearer, more radiant complexion. The gentle heat helps open pores, allowing impurities to be flushed away, while also stimulating collagen production, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and improving skin tone and texture.
Weight Loss Support: While not a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise, infrared sauna sessions can complement your weight loss efforts by promoting calorie burning and detoxification. The increase in heart rate and metabolic rate induced by sauna therapy can help you burn calories more effectively, potentially aiding in weight management when combined with a balanced lifestyle.
Burn Calories: The number of calories burned during an infrared sauna session can vary depending on factors such as your age, weight, metabolism, and the duration and intensity of the session. On average, a 30-minute session in an infrared sauna may help you burn approximately 150-300 calories.
Enhanced Immune Function: Regular infrared sauna sessions have been shown to strengthen the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells and activating the body's natural defense mechanisms. By stimulating circulation and promoting detoxification, infrared sauna therapy supports optimal immune function, helping you stay healthy and resilient.
