A Chef’s Thought Process 

The difference between a traditional sauna with elements heating hot rocks and an infrared sauna using waves was explained to me by a chef. He said that an infrared sauna was a microwave oven, a great wood-fired sauna, and a convection oven. That statement explained everything instantly. It also made me want to put a fan in my first sauna build. Rumination on this conversation has gone on for years. Thoughts include an arrangement of cookies on a baking tray like humans in a sauna seating arrangement. The way steam makes your skin all glossy, the way steam makes the skin on bread. The way food comes out of a microwave, the way food comes out of an oven. Was it like that?

As the popularity of saunas continues to grow, the debate between traditional saunas and infrared saunas intensifies. Traditional saunas, also known as hot-rock saunas, have been around for centuries and use heated rocks to generate heat, while infrared saunas use infrared waves to directly heat the body. While both types of saunas have their benefits, scientific evidence suggests that traditional saunas are superior in terms of providing health benefits and an authentic sauna experience.

Traditional saunas are known for their ability to promote cardiovascular health, detoxification, and relaxation. In a study published in the Journal of Human Kinetics, researchers compared the effects of traditional sauna bathing and infrared sauna bathing on cardiovascular health. The study found that traditional sauna bathing resulted in a greater increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output than infrared sauna bathing. These changes in cardiovascular function can have a positive impact on overall health and may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

In terms of detoxification, traditional saunas are also more effective than infrared saunas. A study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health compared the detoxification effects of traditional and infrared saunas. The study found that traditional saunas were more effective at removing heavy metals from the body than infrared saunas. This is because the high temperature and humidity in traditional saunas cause sweating, which helps to flush toxins out of the body. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, do not produce as much sweating and may not be as effective at removing toxins from the body.

In addition to providing greater health benefits, traditional saunas also offer a more authentic and enjoyable sauna experience. Traditional saunas are often built from wood, which provides a natural and rustic feel. The steam produced by the hot rocks and water creates a relaxing and therapeutic environment that cannot be replicated by an infrared sauna. Traditional saunas are usually larger and offer the opportunity to enjoy a social sauna experience where friends and family can gather together and relax.

Despite the advantages of traditional saunas, infrared saunas have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience and unique health benefits. Infrared saunas are typically smaller and can be easily installed in homes and apartments. The entry cost is also significantly lower alongside convenience in the purchase.

Traditional saunas are built by craftsmen from scratch with large heating elements requiring a chimney or high-watt electrical hookups. Infrareds are plug-and-play.  They also use lower temperatures than traditional saunas, making them more comfortable and accessible to those who cannot tolerate the high heat of traditional saunas. See introduction to Sauna here 🙂 Infrared saunas are also believed to have unique health benefits, including improved skin health, pain relief, and weight loss.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the unique health benefits of infrared saunas is still limited. While some studies have shown that infrared saunas can improve skin health and promote relaxation, the evidence is not as strong as that for traditional saunas. In addition, the lower temperatures used in infrared saunas may not be as effective at promoting cardiovascular health and detoxification as the high temperatures used in traditional saunas.

While infrared saunas may be more convenient and offer some unique health benefits, they cannot replicate the full spectrum of benefits provided by traditional saunas. Therefore, for those seeking the most authentic and beneficial sauna experience, traditional saunas remain the best option. Accessibility plays a part in sauna culture. Traditional saunas with in a home are a unique special thing. Please count your blessings if you were fortunate enough to grow up or live in a household with one. Great saunas are usually found in athletic clubs, spas and the best gyms. The Scandahoovian is out in full force when I’m on the road with Sarge.  My homebase sauna is special for me, but I love visiting others and sharing where you can find the best sauna in your area. 

In summary, the difference between traditional and infrared saunas is significant. Traditional saunas offer greater cardiovascular benefits, detoxification, and a more authentic sauna experience, while infrared saunas are more convenient and offer some unique health benefits. However, scientific evidence suggests that traditional saunas are superior in terms of providing health benefits and an authentic sauna experience. Ultimately, the choice between traditional and infrared saunas will depend on individual preferences and needs. Regardless of which type of sauna one chooses, it is important to use caution and follow proper safety protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable sauna experience.

References:

1. Laukkanen, T., & Laukkanen, J. A. (2018). Sauna bathing and cardiovascular health: Implications for aging. Journal of human kinetics, 61(1), 49-57.
2. Sears, M. E., & Kerr, K. J. (2012). Arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in sweat: a systematic review. Journal of environmental and public health, 2012.
3. Janssens, P. L. H. R., et al. (2019). Infrared Sauna in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis—A Pilot Study Showing Good Tolerability, Short-term Improvement of Pain and Stiffness, and a Trend towards Long-term Beneficial Effects. International Journal of Rheumatology, 2019.
4. Hannuksela, M. L., & Ellahham, S. (2001). Benefits and risks of sauna bathing. The American journal of medicine, 110(2), 118-126.