For centuries, saunas have been used for relaxation, recovery, and healing. But if you’ve been searching for an “infrared sauna near me”, you may be wondering, what’s the difference between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna? And more importantly, which one is right for you? Let’s walk through the benefits, pros and cons, and when and how to use them so you can make the best choice for your body.
Traditional Sauna: The Classic Heat Therapy
A traditional sauna uses wood, gas, or electric heat to warm the air inside the room, raising the temperature anywhere from 150–195°F. The hot air then warms your body from the outside in.
Pros of a Traditional Sauna
- Creates a deep, whole-body sweat quickly
- Time-tested for relaxation and detoxification
- Great for social sauna sessions (common in Nordic cultures)
Cons of a Traditional Sauna
- Can feel overwhelmingly hot for some people
- Not ideal for those with heat sensitivity or certain medical conditions
- Requires more energy to heat the room
Infrared Sauna: Gentle Heat with Deep Benefits
Instead of heating the air around you, an infrared sauna uses light to gently warm your body directly, usually at a much lower temperature (120–150°F). Many people find this gentler, yet just as effective.
Pros of an Infrared Sauna
- More comfortable heat for longer sessions
- Penetrates deeper into muscles and joints
- Can support pain relief, circulation, and skin health
- Uses less energy than traditional saunas
Cons of an Infrared Sauna
- Doesn’t offer the same “steam room” effect some people love
- Sweat response may take longer for first-time users
For more on infrared sauna benefits, check out our blog: 5 Healing Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy.
Who Might Benefit Most from Infrared Sauna?
An infrared sauna is often ideal for:
- People who feel drained or dizzy in high heat
- Athletes looking for muscle recovery after workouts
- Those managing chronic pain, arthritis, or joint stiffness
- Anyone seeking a gentle, calming way to support detox and immune health
Curious how sauna sessions support your immune system? Read more here: Boost Your Immune System Naturally.
How Often Should You Use an Infrared Sauna?
A common question is: “how often should you use an infrared sauna?” The answer depends on your health goals. For general relaxation and wellness, 2–3 times per week is wonderful. If you’re focusing on pain relief or recovery, some people benefit from daily sessions. Always listen to your body and start slow—about 15–20 minutes—to see how you feel.
When to Use an Infrared Sauna
Infrared saunas can fit beautifully into your routine:
- After a workout: To help soothe sore muscles and support recovery
- Before bedtime: To relax your body and mind for restful sleep
- On stressful days: As a calming reset for body and spirit
Pairing a sauna with a massage can be especially therapeutic—warming and loosening your muscles before or after bodywork. Explore our Infrared Spa Treatments to see how you can combine both for maximum benefit.
The Bottom Line
Both infrared and traditional saunas offer incredible wellness benefits. Traditional saunas bring that classic, intense sweat, while infrared saunas provide a gentler, more targeted experience that’s easier on the body.
If you’re looking for a nurturing, comfortable way to relax, recover, and support your health, an infrared sauna session may be exactly what your body is asking for.
Ready to Experience the Benefits?
At All Body Kneads, we invite you to discover the healing comfort of our infrared spa treatments. Whether on its own or paired with a massage, it’s a gift of wellness your body will thank you for.
Book your infrared sauna session today and give yourself the care you deserve. You can also call All Body Kneads at 517-898-2899.
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