Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Sauna: Which One Is Right for You?
Saunas have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, recovery, and overall well-being. But with modern innovations, you now have a choice: the traditional sauna or the infrared sauna.
If you’re new to saunas, you may be asking: What’s the difference? Which one is better for my health? And more importantly, which one will give me the experience I’m looking for?
At Rhoades to Wellness in San Francisco, we specialize in infrared saunas—but we also know traditional saunas have their place. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between infrared and traditional saunas, compare the benefits and risks, and help you decide which one is right for you.
The Basics: How Each Sauna Works
Before diving into pros and cons, let’s look at how each sauna creates heat.
Traditional Sauna
Uses wood, gas, or electric heat to warm the air inside a cabin.
Temperatures typically range from 170–200°F.
You can add water to hot rocks to create steam and humidity.
The body warms indirectly—by being in hot air.
Infrared Sauna
Uses infrared light waves (near, mid, and far infrared) to heat the body directly.
Temperatures typically range from 110–150°F.
No steam—just dry, gentle heat.
The body warms directly, without needing the air to be as hot.
👉 Key takeaway: Traditional saunas heat the air around you, while infrared saunas heat you.
Temperature and Comfort
Traditional sauna: The high heat can feel intense, even overwhelming for beginners. Some people love the “blast” of heat and humidity; others find it suffocating.
Infrared sauna: Runs at a lower temperature but penetrates more deeply, so you sweat heavily without feeling stifled. Most people find it easier to tolerate.
💡 At Rhoades to Wellness, many of our clients prefer infrared because they can relax longer without the “hot, heavy air” feeling.
Sweating and Detoxification
Both types of saunas make you sweat—but in different ways:
Traditional sauna: Induces surface-level sweating due to high ambient heat.
Infrared sauna: Encourages a deeper sweat at lower air temperatures, potentially mobilizing toxins from tissues.
While detox claims are still debated in research, many users report feeling “cleaner” and more refreshed after infrared sessions.
Health Benefits: Side-by-Side
Both sauna types offer wellness benefits, but with some differences:
Benefit - Traditional Sauna
Stress reduction ✅ Yes
Circulation & heart health ✅ Yes (stronger cardiovascular push)
Muscle recovery & pain relief ✅ Yes
Skin health ✅ Some improvement
Sleep support ✅ Yes
Detox support - Limited
Benefit - Infrared Sauna
Stress reduction ✅ Yes (lower heat makes it gentler)
Circulation & heart health ✅ Yes (gentler but consistent)
Muscle recovery & pain relief ✅ Yes (deeper tissue penetration)
Skin health ✅ More noticeable with consistent use
Sleep support ✅ Yes (many prefer evening infrared)
Detox support - Stronger due to deeper sweating
👉 Both work—but infrared tends to be more comfortable, making it easier to use consistently.
Risks and Safety
Both saunas are safe for most healthy adults, but the risks differ slightly:
Traditional sauna risks:
Extreme heat can be overwhelming.
Higher risk of dehydration if you’re not careful
Not ideal for those with breathing issues (humidity may aggravate asthma).
Infrared sauna risks:
Lower risk overall, but dehydration and overheating can still occur.
Not recommended for pregnant women or those with uncontrolled heart conditions.
At Rhoades to Wellness, we guide every client through safe practices—hydration, time limits, and personalized comfort levels.
Session Length and Frequency
Traditional sauna: Because of the extreme heat, sessions usually last 10–20 minutes. More than that can be uncomfortable.
Infrared sauna: Sessions comfortably last 30–45 minutes, allowing more time to relax and reap benefits.
💡 More comfortable = more consistent use, which is why many people prefer infrared for building wellness routines.
Energy Efficiency and Cost
Traditional sauna: Uses a lot of energy to heat air to high temperatures. It takes longer to warm up.
Infrared sauna: More energy-efficient, heats up quickly, and operates at lower temperatures.
For businesses and at-home users, this makes infrared saunas a greener, more cost-effective option.
The Experience: What’s It Like?
Traditional sauna experience: Feels like being in a hot, steamy cabin. Some love the intense heat + steam ritual, but others leave quickly.
Infrared sauna experience: Feels like gentle warmth sinking into your muscles. Many clients say it’s more relaxing, meditative, and comfortable for longer sessions.
At Rhoades to Wellness, clients often describe our infrared sauna as “deeply soothing without being overwhelming.”
Who Should Choose Traditional vs. Infrared?
Traditional Sauna May Be Best If:
You enjoy intense heat and steam.
You want a more “classic” spa experience.
You’re comfortable with shorter, hotter sessions.
Infrared Sauna May Be Best If:
You want a gentler, more comfortable heat.
You’re seeking deep muscle recovery or skin benefits.
You want to stay in longer and relax deeply.
You’re looking for a modern, efficient wellness tool.
Why We Recommend Infrared at Rhoades to Wellness:
While traditional saunas have a rich history, we chose infrared because it offers:
A more comfortable experience (clients can actually relax).
Deeper wellness benefits at lower, safer temperatures.
Energy efficiency that supports sustainability.
Accessibility—clients of all fitness levels can enjoy it.
In short: infrared makes sauna therapy easier, safer, and more effective for everyday wellness.
FAQs About Sauna Types
Q: Which sauna burns more calories?
Infrared saunas may burn more because of the deeper heat, but both can slightly boost metabolism.
Q: Is infrared safer than traditional?
For most people, yes—it’s gentler and easier to tolerate, with fewer risks of overheating.
Q: Can I switch between both?
Yes. Some wellness centers offer both, but most people find they prefer one type.
Where to Experience Infrared Sauna in San Francisco
Curious to see how infrared feels compared to traditional saunas? At Rhoades to Wellness in San Francisco, we specialize in infrared sauna therapy designed for comfort, safety, and results.
Our private rooms, customizable sessions, and low-EMF technology create the perfect environment to explore the benefits for yourself.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Infrared or traditional? Both have their perks—but if you’re looking for a gentler, deeper, and more enjoyable experience, infrared may be the perfect fit.
Discover why more people in San Francisco are choosing infrared saunas for stress relief, recovery, and overall wellness.
The Road Ahead–
When it comes to infrared sauna vs. traditional sauna, the right choice depends on your preferences, goals, and comfort level. Traditional saunas offer an intense, classic experience, while infrared saunas provide a modern, gentle, and efficient approach to wellness.
At Rhoades to Wellness, we’re proud to offer state-of-the-art infrared sauna therapy so you can enjoy all the benefits without the overwhelm. Whether you’re new to sauna culture or a seasoned pro, our team is here to make your experience safe, relaxing, and effective.