Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna: Which Is Better for You?

Saunas have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, detoxification, and overall wellness. Today, there are two primary types of saunas that people consider for home or commercial use: infrared saunas and traditional saunas. While both offer remarkable health benefits, their methods of heating the body, user experience, and long-term advantages differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help you determine which type best suits your lifestyle and wellness goals. As a company specializing in infrared sauna solutions, WizziSaunas aims to help you make an informed choice.
How Each Sauna Works(Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna)
Traditional Sauna
A traditional sauna uses a stove or heater to warm the air inside the room, typically reaching temperatures of 70–90°C (158–194°F). As the air heats up, your body warms through the surrounding high temperature. This creates a classic sauna experience: hot, steamy, and intense.
Infrared Sauna
An infrared sauna works differently. Instead of heating the air, infrared panels emit wavelengths that directly penetrate the skin, warming the body from the inside out. The temperature usually stays between 45–60°C (113–140°F), making the environment more comfortable while still delivering deep heat therapy.
This key difference in heating method is what sets the two apart in terms of comfort, effectiveness, and health benefits.
Health Benefits Compared
Detoxification
Both saunas support detoxification by increasing sweating. However, infrared saunas stimulate sweat production at lower temperatures, allowing for more prolonged and effective detox sessions. Many users find it easier to tolerate longer sessions in an infrared sauna.
Muscle Recovery & Pain Relief
Infrared heat penetrates tissues more deeply, which makes it especially effective for:
- Muscle soreness
- Chronic pain
- Joint stiffness
- Sports recovery
Athletes often prefer infrared saunas because they deliver gentle yet powerful heat that eases tension and improves mobility.
Cardiovascular Health
Both sauna types elevate heart rate and promote circulation. However, infrared saunas may offer a milder, more consistent cardiovascular effect, similar to moderate exercise, without the intense heat stress of traditional saunas.
Skin Benefits
Infrared saunas stimulate collagen production, increase circulation, and promote cellular repair—leading to clearer, more radiant skin. Traditional saunas can also improve complexion but may dehydrate the skin more quickly due to the high heat.
Respiratory Comfort
Traditional saunas are hotter and sometimes include steam, which can feel overwhelming for people with respiratory sensitivity. Infrared saunas provide a gentler environment, making them easier to tolerate for individuals who struggle with extreme heat.
User Experience Comparison
Comfort & Heat Intensity
- Traditional Sauna: Intense heat, sometimes overwhelming for beginners.
- Infrared Sauna: Lower, more comfortable temperatures ideal for longer sessions.
Warm-Up Time
- Traditional: Requires 30–45 minutes to heat up.
- Infrared: Ready in 10–15 minutes.
Energy Efficiency
Infrared saunas use significantly less electricity, making them a more eco-friendly and cost-efficient choice for long-term use.
Installation
Traditional saunas usually require more complex electrical setups and ventilation. Infrared saunas from WizziSaunas are designed for easy installation, often requiring only a standard electrical outlet.
Which One Is Better for You?
Choose a Traditional Sauna if:
- You enjoy the classic hot and steamy sauna feeling.
- You want a more intense heat experience.
- You’re familiar with traditional sauna culture.
Choose an Infrared Sauna if:
- You prefer a comfortable, lower-temperature environment.
- You want deeper therapeutic benefits such as pain relief and improved skin health.
- You value energy efficiency and easy installation.
- You want a sauna suitable for all ages, including seniors or heat-sensitive individuals.
Most modern wellness enthusiasts prefer infrared saunas due to their comfort, efficiency, and expanded health benefits.
Why Choose WizziSaunas?
WizziSaunas specializes in high-quality infrared saunas designed to enhance wellness safely and effectively. Our saunas feature:
- Advanced infrared technology
- Eco-friendly and energy-saving systems
- Premium materials and craftsmanship
- Easy installation for homes or businesses
Whether you’re looking to improve your health, relax after work, or enhance your home wellness space, WizziSaunas provides reliable and innovative solutions you can trust.