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Infrared Saunas - History, Health Benefits and Technology
By Julie-Ann Amos
Infrared saunas are a revolutionary step in sauna technology, and one that can
generate strong opinions among sauna enthusiasts. Because infrared saunas use
different technology, different materials, and create an experience that is
slightly different from a traditional sauna, it is inevitable that bathers
around the world vary in their feelings for this alternative sauna heating
mechanism.
The infrared heater, which operates quite differently from a traditional sauna
heater, has added a completely new dimension to the sauna experience and paved
the way for many more people to become sauna enthusiasts.
How do Infrared Saunas Work?
Infrared saunas work using infrared heaters to convert light directly to heat.
This heat has the effect of warming nearby objects without raising the air
temperature; in others words, a bather in an infrared sauna absorbs heat but the
surrounding air does not.
Far-infrared radiant (FIR) heat is often confused with ultraviolet (UV)
radiation because both types of energy are present in the sun's rays. However,
FIR does not damage the skin the way UV does while still providing many of the
benefits of natural sunlight.
What are the Health Benefits of an Infrared Sauna?
In infrared saunas, heat penetrates deep into body tissues in a way that a
traditional sauna cannot. This deep tissue warmth is great for sore muscles,
stiffness, and joint pain, especially the kind of chronic pain that comes from
arthritis.
The infrared sauna heater warms up and is ready for use much more quickly than a
traditional sauna's heater (usually in 10 to 20 minutes, compared to at least an
hour) and it uses much less energy. And because the air itself does not get hot
in infrared saunas, they are suitable for people with respiratory issues who
find it uncomfortable or even risky to go in a traditional sauna. Bathers in
infrared saunas also can enjoy the benefits of the sauna at a much lower temperature
than in a traditional sauna.
Cost, Installation and Maintenance
Generally speaking, infrared saunas are less expensive, easier to install, and
require less maintenance than traditional saunas. They come in many sizes and
are often quite portable, making them a great choice for a home sauna when there
is limited space available.
While the upfront cost of a far-infrared sauna is quite reasonable, a great deal
more savings is realized when it comes to installation. An infrared sauna heater
does not use water so there is no need for moisture barriers, special drainage
systems, or complex electrical wiring. Maintenance is much less involved as
well, since there are no water-borne bacteria to take up residence inside and
the sauna itself stays nice and dry.
How does the Infrared Sauna Compare to a Traditional Sauna?
We have already talked about some of the differences between infrared saunas and
traditional saunas, so let's look at a few more comparisons as well.
The health benefits of infrared saunas are comparable to those of traditional
saunas. These benefits may include:
• Improved blood circulation
• Cleansing of body toxins via the skin, pores and sweat glands
• Easing of pain and discomfort caused by arthritis
• Relaxation
• Stress relief
• Relief of muscle soreness
• Social interaction and a sense of community
Some sauna enthusiasts say they have a better experience in infrared saunas,
while others much prefer the moist heat of a traditional sauna. Because of the
dissimilarity in air temperature and humidity between the two sauna types, some
bathers do respond differently from one to the other.
For example, infrared saunas have the following unique characteristics:
• Dry air is better tolerated by bathers with some respiratory issues
• Cooler air is better tolerated by bathers with some medical conditions
• FIR heating is similar to the natural sun, which benefits some people with
vitamin deficiencies or Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Deep penetration of FIR energy is thought to be more effective for sore and
injured muscles
By contrast, traditional saunas have the following unique characteristics:
• Hot, moist air can be beneficial for people with asthma, sinus congestion, and
general head/neck colds
• Frequent use may leave skin feeling dry, but less so than with infrared saunas
• All-over warmth of moist air is more soothing, enveloping and relaxing for
some people
In most cases, the partiality for infrared saunas or traditional saunas comes
down to personal preference. If you are unsure of which type of sauna you will
enjoy most then it is a good idea try using both types, several times if
possible. This is the best way to determine the best fit for your needs.
What Should I look for in an Infrared Sauna?
When you decide to shop for infrared saunas, it is important to gather as much
information and do as much research as possible. You can look online, visit your
local library, and check with local dealers who sell infrared saunas. While
features and specifications can vary widely, here are a few things to look for
in an infrared sauna:
• Light or white-colored wood construction
• Comfortable seating
• Sufficient light for reading, but not so bright as to be glaring
• Easy installation and secure joining of panels and seams
• Infrared heaters made with true ceramic infrared lamps rather than steel rods
covered with a ceramic coating
• Lifetime warranty on infrared heaters
• Local maintenance and repair services
• Size and shape to suit your needs and your available space
• Overall quality construction that does not appear flimsy or misaligned
Infrared saunas are extremely popular alternatives to traditional saunas,
providing substantial benefit to regular users and making the sauna experience
accessible to a wider range of people.
Summary
Saunas have come a long way from the original versions dug into an embankment
and using a wood fire to heat stones. The advent of better technology, better
materials, and greater understanding of sauna benefits has helped make the sauna
popular across the globe.
Infrared saunas are an important link in the evolution of sauna technology, and
they have proved themselves to be energy efficient as well as beneficial to the
health and well-being of bathers. If you are interested in buying a home sauna
then you would be well served to give careful consideration to modern infrared
saunas.
About the Author
Julie-Ann Amos is a freelance writer for Home-Saunas-N-Kits.com, a consumer
guide providing information on
infrared saunas
and sauna
room heaters. She regularly enjoys the health benefits of
home saunas when vacationing in
her second home in Scotland.
Copyright 2005 Home Saunas 'N Kits.com
Permission is granted to publish this article on your site if the author's
byline is included and all 3 links are hyperlinked.
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| Some other articles by Julie-Ann Amos | Evolution Of The Sauna Heater
The sauna and the first sauna heaters were invented in Finland over 2000 years
ago, when the Finns discovered the many health benefits of saunas. It was so ...
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