Buying Guide
Which Sauna Is Best For You?
The practice of sauna use goes back to the end of the ice age. More recently, the infrared sauna, an alternative to the traditional Finnish-style sauna, has become a popular option in the functional medicine world. To learn more about sauna history, click here!
Many people use saunas to help improve health outcomes. When thinking about your own goals for using a sauna, consider what the research has said.
| Researched Health Benefits | Favors Traditional | Favors Infrared | Similar Evidence |
| Heart Disease and Longevity | x | ||
| Brain Health | x | ||
| Mental Health | x | ||
| Chronic Pain and Fatigue | x |
Below we delve into what the various types of saunas are so you can better assess your needs and how a sauna can fir into your life.
Wet Sauna
“Wet” sauna refers to the practice of adding water over the hot stones of your sauna heater. A wet sauna refers also to a room constructed of softwood with a single heater that is capable of reaches temperatures of about 190 degrees Fahrenheit. The high temperature produces a very dry environment with extremely low humidity. The soft wood does not get too hot and the dry air is void of moisture. When you pour water over the rocks in the heating unit, it creates a burst of steam, which creates moisture, therefore the name, “wet” sauna. The burst of steam also causes a rush of super-hot air, momentarily creating an exceptionally hot environment.
If water cannot be poured over hot stones it is not a true sauna.
Dry Traditional Sauna
The traditional sauna that most people think of is the dry sauna. Although use of water is the most popular, some like to use the Sauna without any water at all for a very dry climate (humidity level 10-15%).
What are the health benefits of Traditional Sauna?
- Elevated heart rate due to increased body temperature
- Weight loss and caloric burn due to increased metabolism
- Release of fat-soluble toxins and toxic chemicals
- Respiratory relief due to hot, moist air generated by steam
- Enhanced blood flow leading to improved circulation
- Endorphin release due to increased heart rate
- Enhanced skin tone due to the opening of pores
- Cellulite reduction through weight loss
- Cardiovascular conditioning due to increased heart rate
- Enhanced immune system due to increased body temperature
Infrared Sauna
An infrared sauna is also a room constructed of softwood but has 4-7 electric heating panels surrounding the user(s). The temperature will generally not exceed 135 degrees Fahrenheit and no water is used. Instead, the user positions in front of one or more of the heating panels so that the heat is focused on a specific area(s) of the body. The infrared heat penetrates the body at the point of contact. An infrared “sauna” is not a sauna at all, but a therapy room. It does not use water, does not get exceptionally hot, and does not generate steam.
What are the health benefits of Infrared?
- Relief for specific sore muscles and joints
- Targeted relief for the effects of arthritis
- Heat therapy without high temperatures
- Tension relief by heating stiff muscles
- Assist in healing of sports and other injuries
Other Benefits include:
- Increased comfort. Because the air inside an infrared sauna gets less hot, you may be able to spend more time inside with less discomfort.
- Less expensive to purchase. If you’re considering purchasing a sauna for your home, infrared models are often available at a much lower cost than traditional saunas.
Low/No EMF
“EMF" stands for an electromagnetic field, which is an invisible electrical and magnetic force. Everything generates its own magnetic field. The Earth has its own Geo-Magnetic Field. This field/wave causes an imaginary energy line from North to South which is used by animals for navigation. Artificial electromagnetic fields are caused by human activities and technologies (from appliances, cell phones to high voltage wires).
Widely published, peer reviewed scientific studies document: EMF exposure above 3 mG will start to develop biological stress which can lead to: cancer and possible immune system effects, it has been known to suppresses the human hormone melatonin (critical for sleep, mood regulation, and overall health). Other minor side effects: headaches, tinnitus, fatigue, nausea, stress, poor concentration, sleep disorder, pain, burning sensation, skin conditions and rashes. Mental disorders are the most common in over-exposure to EMFs.
Our Low/ Ultra Low/ Near Zero and No EMF saunas mean that the level of EMF exposure is very low (0 to 3 mG)
Full Spectrum
The Full Spectrum is a blend of wavelengths – Near (NIR), Far (FIR) and Mid (MIR)- to produce an optimal wavelength – 99% - tissue radiance/penetration nearer to the surface of the skin.
Far Infared
Far infrared sauna therapy heats the body directly rather than simply warming the air, it raises the core body temperature and produces a deep, detoxifying sweat at the cellular level, where most toxins reside.
- Weight Loss
- Detoxification
- Blood Pressure Reduction
- Relaxation
Sauna Sizing
You will need to consider the space you have available in or outside of your home. If you are tight on space inside, and outdoor sauna may be the way to go. Corner saunas save space. You also need to think about how many people may use the sauna at one time or if you want to lay out in the sauna or if just sitting down is okay. Do you require wheelchair accessibility? There are saunas to fit almost every area of need.
Improve your life with regular and consistent sauna use, start today!
We offer financing help so you can start your saunas journey without breaking the bank!
