What’s the difference between traditional saunas and infrared saunas?

Heat Source & Method

• Traditional Sauna

  • Uses an electric heater or wood stove to heat stones.

  • The stones heat the air, which in turn warms your body.

  • You can pour water on the stones to create steam and adjust humidity.

• Infrared Sauna

  • Uses infrared heaters (light waves) that directly heat your body’s tissues, not the surrounding air.

  • No steam or added humidity—dry heat only.

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2. Temperature & Humidity

• Traditional Sauna

  • Hotter environment: 70°C–90°C.

  • Humidity can vary from dry (~10%) to very humid (up to 60%+) depending on water use.

• Infrared Sauna

  • Lower air temperature: 45°C–60°C.

  • Low humidity (almost always under 10%).

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3. Experience & Sensation

• Traditional Sauna

  • Intense, enveloping heat—great for short, hot sessions and “löyly” (steam bursts).

  • Feels more like being in a hot room.

• Infrared Sauna

  • Gentler air temperature but deeper heat penetration into muscles and joints.

  • Feels more like lying in warm sunlight.

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4. Health & Wellness Effects

• Traditional Sauna

  • Strong cardiovascular stimulation from rapid temperature changes (especially when combined with cold plunges).

  • Excellent for relaxation, detox through sweating, and social sauna culture.

• Infrared Sauna

  • Promoted for muscle recovery, joint pain relief, and deep tissue relaxation.

  • More tolerable for those sensitive to high heat.

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5. Warm-up & Maintenance

• Traditional Sauna

  • Takes 30–45 minutes to fully heat.

  • Requires occasional maintenance of stones/heater.

• Infrared Sauna

  • Heats up in 10–15 minutes.

  • Lower energy use and minimal upkeep—no stones or water buckets.

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Quick Summary Table: