The Differences Between Traditional and Infrared Outdoor Saunas: Which One Is Right for You?

Outdoor saunas, like indoor saunas, provide a variety of benefits such as better cardiovascular health, detoxification, relaxation, and pain treatment. They're also an excellent way to relax and connect with nature, making them an excellent addition to any backyard getaway. We'll compare two types of outdoor saunas in this hot topic article: traditional versus infrared saunas.

Traditional Outdoor Saunas

Outdoor saunas have been used for generations and are the most prevalent type of sauna in many cultures. Traditional heating methods are used in these saunas, in which a fire or heater burns wood, gas, or electricity to heat the sauna rocks, which then radiate heat into the sauna area.

Traditional saunas have the capacity to induce detoxification, which is one of their key advantages. As the body heats up, toxins are released through sweat, which can promote overall health and well-being. Traditional saunas have also been proven to help with pain relief, stress reduction, and circulation improvement.

Traditional saunas' high temperatures can be uncomfortable for certain people, and prolonged exposure can cause dehydration. Staying hydrated is vital when using a traditional sauna, and anyone with specific medical issues, such as high blood pressure, should contact with their doctor before using one.

The traditional outdoor sauna is ideal for athletes. High temperatures can also boost endurance and stamina by raising the body's heat tolerance, which is advantageous for athletes who compete in hot and humid situations. Also, using a traditional sauna on a regular basis can assist to enhance lung function, which is beneficial for endurance athletes.

If you're thinking about buying a traditional sauna for your backyard, Haljas is known for their distinct modern saunas (their octagon shaped Hele Glass Single is pictured above). If you want to go the more traditional barrel route, Satori is known for having top quality barrel saunas. 

Infrared Outdoor Saunas

Infrared saunas have grown in popularity among sauna enthusiasts in recent years. Infrared saunas, as opposed to regular saunas, employ infrared lamps to directly heat the body. This type of sauna works by generating infrared radiation, which is absorbed by the body and causes heat and sweating.

Infrared saunas have the advantage of operating at lower temperatures than regular saunas. Infrared saunas normally function at temperatures ranging from 120°F to 140°F, but regular saunas can operate at temperatures ranging from 150°F to 190°F. This lower temperature is more comfortable for those who cannot tolerate the high heat of traditional saunas, making it a viable option for those suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular ailments.

Infrared saunas also have the capacity to permeate deeper into the body's tissues, resulting in a somewhat intense sweat session. Its deep tissue penetration aids in the release of toxins and the enhancement of blood flow, hence aiding healing and relaxation. Infrared saunas are also known to promote skin health by increasing collagen formation and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

While there are numerous advantages to using an infrared sauna, there are a few downsides to consider. Some users may notice skin discomfort, particularly those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, there has been little research on the long-term effects of infrared sauna use, so use caution and speak with a doctor before using one on a regular basis.

Which One Is Right for You?

After discussing the distinctions between regular and infrared saunas, the question remains: which one is best for you? Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference, health considerations, and financial constraints.

Traditional saunas are a terrific alternative for individuals who want to sweat more intensely and at greater temperatures. They've been demonstrated to provide a variety of health benefits, including cleansing, pain reduction, and increased circulation. Historic outdoor saunas are also an excellent post-workout rehabilitation tool. Traditional saunas' high temperatures and dry heat serve to promote blood flow and circulation, which can aid in the clearance of metabolic waste products from the body's tissues. This can aid in reducing muscular discomfort and hastening recovery time following an exercise or competition.

The traditional outdoor sauna is the clear winner in terms of long-term health advantages. Traditional saunas have been used for generations and have been demonstrated to provide a number of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and increased longevity. Many studies have been conducted to investigate the possible long-term health advantages of regular traditional sauna use.

According to one 2015 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, males who used saunas 2-3 times per week had a 22% lower risk of sudden cardiac mortality than those who only used saunas once per week. Another 2018 study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology discovered that regular sauna use was connected with a lower risk of hypertension, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Finally, according to a 2018 study published in the Journal of Human Hypertension, regular sauna use is related with better endothelium function, which is critical for maintaining healthy blood vessels. These findings imply that using traditional saunas on a daily basis may have long-term health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health.

Infrared saunas, on the other hand, are ideal for those who want cooler temperatures and a gentler sweating experience. They've been demonstrated to penetrate deeper into tissues, offering benefits like enhanced skin health and relaxation. However, they may not be appropriate for everyone, as some people may experience skin irritation or have worries about the long-term implications of infrared radiation exposure. Infrared saunas are typically less expensive to install and maintain than regular saunas.

It is critical to examine your personal needs and preferences while picking between the two types of saunas. A conventional sauna may be the best option for you if you want a more intense sweating experience and have no health issues. An infrared sauna may be a better choice if you prefer a more moderate sweating experience or are concerned about the high temperatures of a traditional sauna. Both types of saunas can provide a variety of health benefits, so it all comes down to what works best for you.

Finally, outdoor saunas can be an excellent addition to any backyard. The benefits of regular sauna use are well-documented, whether you utilize a standard or infrared sauna. Understanding the distinctions between these two types of saunas, as well as your personal needs and preferences, will allow you to make an informed decision about which one is best for you.