This is probably the most frequent question we get asked here at Aqualine, Traditional or Infrared Saunas, which is best?
The answer to this depends on why you are thinking of purchasing a sauna in the first place and how you intend to use it as part of your routine.
Infrared Saunas heat the cabin very differently to traditional saunas and use less electricity. In a Traditional sauna, a large ‘focal point’ heater super-charges the air with convected heat from the sauna stones which you then douse with water, creating a relaxing steam sauna environment. In comparison, Infrared Sauna heaters are evenly spaced all around the sauna cabin and radiate heat directly to your skin as well as heating the air around you. When you step into an Infrared Sauna you aren't hit by that sudden wave of heat, it feels more like sitting out in the sunshine on a hot summers day.
Because of the different heating methods, the Infrared Saunas reach a usable temperature within 5 -10 minutes and run at up to 65 degrees whereas a Traditional Sauna can get up to 80 or even 90 degrees but can take up to 30 – 40 minutes to reach their maximum temperature.
Both types of sauna offer health benefits to regular users, although more have been reported with Infrared Saunas because the healing infrared rays penetrate up to 4cm deep into the body. This is better for detoxification and muscular pain, I find that even at the lower temperatures, I perspire more in an Infrared Sauna than I do in a Traditional Sauna.
Some people prefer the feeling and higher temperatures that come from a traditional sauna heater. Traditional Saunas retain their heat much better and are therefore more suited to continuous use in a gym or spa for example.
Personally, I find that the sizzle and steam from the sauna stones is the most relaxing part of the sauna experience.
That being said, I find that I can spend a lot longer in my Infrared Sauna because the air around me is cooler and easier to breathe, add to this the quicker warm up time and you have the perfect sauna to fit into even the busiest of daily routines.
It’s all about personal preference, there is no right or wrong answer to this question, both types of saunas have their up-sides but I’d say if you want a sauna to relax in occasionally with friends and family, choose a Traditional Sauna. If you want an everyday sauna as part of your health, weight loss or exercise regimen, I’d recommend an Infrared Sauna.