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Is An Infrared Sauna Right For You?

August 4, 2008

Are you interested in purchasing a sauna for home use? Unsure about which type will best suit your needs? This article should shed some light and help you decide what kind of personal sauna will be perfect for you.

A quality sauna of either type will give you the benefits of sweat detoxification, increased blood circulation, better skin tone, relief from minor aches and pains, and a place to simply relax and unwind. But infrared and steam saunas also offer their own distinct advantages as a result of having different types of heaters.

Infrared is the perfect route for those who may be adverse to too much heat and humidity, but still wish to experience the detoxifying benefits of a sauna. This sauna’s far-infrared (FIR) heater warms your body up to 110 - 150 F within 10-20 minutes while managing to keep the surrounding air relatively dry, cool, and breathable. FIR heat radiates into the skin and is said to be effective for alleviating sore muscles & injured tissue, as well as chronic pain such as from arthritis.

With an average temperature of 190 F, the steamy, hot air of a traditional sauna is ideal for those with respiratory health issues such as asthma, colds, or sinus congestion. The humidity facilitates breathing and helps to clear out stuffy lungs and nasal passages. Moisture also makes the air less drying than the infrared sauna’s, and many people feel rejuvenated and healthier after emerging from the steam. If all-over warmth and moisture soothes and relaxes you, then you may wish to give the steam sauna a try.

Cost and space considerations are not to be overlooked. In general, infrared saunas are smaller, more likely to be portable, and cost relatively less to buy, install, and operate. Steam saunas tend to be more costly not only to purchase, but also because they require the use of special drains, barriers, and wiring for the water. But, in the end, your choice of sauna may come down to personal preference: you might just prefer the moist heat of a traditional steam sauna to the drier air of an infrared.

Still unsure? Check out local gyms or spas for saunas you can try out first hand - after all, trying out both is the only way to be 100% sure about which type will serve your needs best. You’ll get an idea of how your body responds to each one and how they work. It’s worth the effort of research: a personal sauna is a big, worthwhile purchase, and an excellent investment towards your health for years into the future.

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