Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna: Which is Right for You?

At Reju Clinic, we offer both traditional and infrared saunas and we often get asked ‘which is right for me’?

Truth is, we treat them like two separate treatments and your choice will ultimately depend on preference and your needs. You also may decide to alternate, to gain the benefits of each.

So, which is right for you? In this guide, we’ll explore both sauna types in detail, helping you decide which is right for you.

Infrared vs Traditional Saunas: A Guide

Heat and Temperature

Infrared saunas run between 45 to 65 degrees C, which is lower than the temperature of traditional saunas (85 to 100 degrees C). Their heating mechanisms vary, too; the infrared sauna uses infrared light, while its traditional counterpart works with a heater, hot rocks and water.

An infrared sauna warms your body directly, making the heat feel gentler, while a traditional sauna heats the air around you, so it feels hotter. The addition of hot rocks that can be splashed with water creates a burst of steam, intensifying the experience. At Reju, we recommend you use the rain showers provided in each sauna room to engage in contrast therapy (Alternating between hot and cold temperatures).

Cost

At Reju Clinic, our services cost the same regardless of sauna type. This allows you to choose your preferred sauna without worrying about price changes.

A traditional or infrared sauna session costs $40.00 for a casual visit. If you’re keen to keep going, we’ve got a 5-session pack for $185.00 or a 10-session pack for $350.00, offering more value for regular visits. Plus, for an extra $20 per session, you can bring a mate along!

But for the best value, our Sauna Membership is the way to go—you get 2 sessions per week for only $50 (normally $80), saving you $30 every week! This membership renews weekly until cancelled, giving you maximum flexibility and savings.

Timing

At Reju, each sauna session is 45 minutes, including changing and showering time. The ideal duration depends on your experience level, health and the type of sauna.

We recommend starting with 15 minutes, and regular users can increase to 30 – 40. If you are using the traditional sauna, break this up with 1 – 2 cold showers, which isn’t necessary with the gentle heat from the infrared sauna.

It is important to listen to your body; things change day to day and your body is the best tool to gauge our tolerance – and remember to stay hydrated.

We recommend using the sauna 2-3 times per week.

Health Benefits

Saunas are a heat therapy solution that increases the body’s core temperature and kick-starts the natural cooling process, triggering your body to sweat and detoxify. Heat has also been proven to increase the efficiency of your mitochondria, the ‘batteries’ powering your cells, which is essential for maintaining good physical and psychological health.

During sauna therapy, you will experience an increase in your heart rate mirroring the effects of exercise, improving your cardiovascular health and burning calories. In addition, vasodilation will occur, increasing blood flow and delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the organs, brain, joints and muscles. Saunas have been used for thousands of years to relax, stimulate the release of endorphins and cleanse the skin.

Infrared saunas act as analgesics, relieving pain by soothing muscle tissues. The infrared goes skin deep, easing inner muscular pain and promoting improved blood circulation. This enhanced circulation also detoxifies the body through sweating. If you are heat-sensitive, the infrared sauna is your best choice. Its gentle heat is perfect for sensitive skin and improves overall skin health. Many users also report a greater sense of calm and relaxation during infrared sessions, making it a great choice for stress relief. As a bonus, it causes less physical strain.

In contrast, traditional saunas are best for cardiovascular health. The intense heat is particularly effective for relieving sore muscles and joint pain making them a great choice for post exercise recovery.

Learn more about the health benefits of sauna bathing.

Which Sauna is Right for You?

Choosing between an infrared sauna and a traditional sauna ultimately depends on your individual preferences and wellness goals, and may change from one day to the next. Whether you opt for the intense heat of the traditional sauna or the gentle infrared warmth, both additions to your wellness routine promote health, relaxation and wellness, and provide an opportunity to unplug and deregulate.

Now that you know the differences, the journey to relaxation and rejuvenation awaits you at Reju Clinic. Book your first session today, either online or by calling our clinic!