Infrared saunas and steam saunas are two popular types of saunas that are used for relaxation and therapeutic purposes. Both types of saunas can provide a number of health benefits, including improved circulation, increased flexibility, and reduced stress. However, there are some key differences between the two types of saunas that you should consider when deciding which one is right for you.
Infrared saunas use infrared heaters to produce heat, which is then absorbed by the body. Infrared saunas are often smaller and more portable than steam saunas, and they can be used in a variety of settings, including homes, spas, and hotels. Because infrared saunas use lower temperatures than steam saunas, they may be more comfortable for some people to use. This may result in longer use per session which may lead lead to a greater possibility of health benefits. Infrared saunas are also believed to be more effective at penetrating the skin and increasing blood flow, which can help to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.
Steam saunas, on the other hand, use steam to produce heat and humidity. Steam saunas are typically larger and more expensive than infrared saunas. Steam saunas can also be more intense than infrared saunas, as the high humidity and heat can be more difficult to tolerate for some people. However, steam saunas are believed to be more effective at detoxifying the body and promoting overall relaxation.
Overall, both infrared saunas and steam saunas can provide a number of health benefits, and the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a more portable and lower-temperature option, an infrared sauna may be the better choice for you. If you are looking for a more intense and detoxifying experience, a steam sauna may be a better fit. It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional or sauna specialist before starting any new sauna regimen.
Infrared saunas are a type of sauna that uses infrared heaters to produce heat, which is then absorbed by the body. Infrared saunas have gained popularity in recent years due to their numerous health benefits, including:
Improved circulation: Infrared saunas can help to improve blood flow and increase circulation, which can lead to a number of health benefits, including reduced muscle soreness and stiffness, improved recovery after exercise, and reduced stress.
Increased flexibility: Infrared saunas can help to loosen tight muscles and improve range of motion, making them a popular choice for athletes and those with chronic muscle pain.
Weight loss: Some people use infrared saunas as a tool for weight loss, as the heat produced by the sauna can cause the body to sweat, which can help to remove toxins and excess water weight.
Stress relief: The heat and relaxation provided by infrared saunas can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Improved skin health: Infrared saunas can help to improve the appearance of the skin by increasing blood flow and promoting the production of collagen, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
It is important to note that the benefits of infrared saunas are largely anecdotal, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of these saunas. As with any new health regimen, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting to use an infrared sauna.
Steam saunas, also known as traditional saunas, are a type of sauna that uses steam to produce heat and humidity. Steam saunas have been used for centuries for their numerous health benefits, including:
Detoxification: Steam saunas can help to remove toxins from the body through sweating. The heat and humidity of the sauna can help to open up the pores, allowing toxins to be eliminated through the skin.
Relaxation: The heat and humidity of the sauna can help to relax the muscles and promote a feeling of relaxation and well-being.
Improved circulation: The heat and humidity of the sauna can help to increase blood flow and improve circulation, which can lead to a number of health benefits, including reduced muscle soreness and stiffness, improved recovery after exercise, and reduced stress.
Improved skin health: Steam saunas can help to improve the appearance of the skin by increasing blood flow and promoting the production of collagen, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Respiratory health: The heat and humidity of the sauna can help to loosen and thin mucus, making it easier to breathe for those with respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies.
It is important to note that the benefits of steam saunas are largely anecdotal, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of these saunas. As with any new health regimen, it is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting to use a steam sauna.
As you can tell by now, until more definitive research comes out there is no finite statements that can be made for infrared vs. steam sauna.
Yours in health,
Coach Ry