Why We Chose a Traditional Sauna Over an Infrared Sauna

In the world of home wellness, the choice between a traditional sauna and an infrared sauna is one of the most common dilemmas. While both promise relaxation and health benefits, they are fundamentally different experiences. At Glow Saunas, our philosophy is simple: we believe in the power of an authentic, all-encompassing heat that has been cherished for centuries. This is why we are proud to specialise in the traditional sauna—a choice we believe offers a truly superior experience.

This post will delve into the core differences between these two heating methods and explain why the classic, Finnish-style ritual provides a more intense, authentic, and deeply therapeutic experience.

The Core Difference: Enveloping Heat vs. Targeted Rays

The primary distinction lies in how each system generates heat and, consequently, how that heat interacts with your body.

• Traditional Saunas use a powerful heater to warm a bed of volcanic stones, which in turn heat the air inside the sauna. When you pour water over these hot stones—a process known as löyly—it creates a surge of steam and humidity. This produces an intense, enveloping heat that penetrates every part of your body. The goal is to heat the air to a high temperature (typically 70-90°C), creating an environment that encourages a vigorous, deep sweat.
• Infrared Saunas use infrared light panels to directly heat your body, rather than the air around you. This is often referred to as a "gentle" heat, with internal temperatures usually staying between 40-60°C. While this method can be effective for muscle relief, it lacks the all-encompassing warmth and the classic ritual of steam.

The Experience: Deep Sweat and Authentic Detoxification

For us, the true measure of a sauna's effectiveness is the quality of the sweat. The intense, moist heat of a traditional sauna is what facilitates a deep, full-body sauna detoxification. The high ambient temperature causes a profound rise in your core body temperature, stimulating the circulatory system and promoting a vigorous sweat from your pores. It’s an active, powerful process that feels invigorating and cleansing from within.

This is the essence of the classic sauna ritual. It’s not just about sitting in a heated box; it’s about a mindful practice that engages all the senses—the hiss of the steam, the aroma of the Canadian Red Cedar sauna wood, and the feeling of the heat washing over you. A systematic review published in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine notes that regular sauna use may have a positive impact on mental health, with studies reporting psychological benefits and improved quality of life. Furthermore, research has shown that the intense heat can lead to improved cardiovascular health, with a landmark study in Mayo Clinic Proceedings finding a link between frequent sauna use and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Glow Saunas Difference: Durability and Aspirational Design

Choosing a traditional sauna is also a long-term investment in your home and your health. Our commitment is to provide products that are as durable as they are beautiful. For homeowners seeking a luxurious addition to their property, especially an outdoor sauna can be proud of, the materials matter. 

We use the finest materials, such as Canadian Red Cedar, renowned for its rich aroma, resistance to rot, and natural beauty. Our Glow Classic 4-person sauna offers a beautiful, light-toned alternative, perfect for creating a classic look. These premium woods are not just for aesthetics; they are chosen for their ability to withstand the extreme conditions of a traditional sauna environment, ensuring your investment lasts for decades. In fact, comprehensive studies on the subject have reviewed numerous findings on the health benefits of regular sauna use, demonstrating its potential to extend healthspan by reducing all-cause mortality.

Furthermore, our saunas, like the spacious Glow Estate 8-person model, are designed with both classic tradition and modern engineering in mind. Every component is crafted to deliver the ultimate sauna experience—one that is both authentic and reliable.

Your Path to an Authentic Wellness Ritual

Ultimately, the choice comes down to the experience you want. If you are seeking a gentle, targeted warmth, an infrared sauna might be an option. But if you desire the deep, cleansing sweat, the ritual of steam, and the enveloping warmth that defines the centuries-old tradition of sauna bathing, then a traditional sauna is the only choice.

At Glow Saunas, we invite you to explore our range of traditional saunas, where craftsmanship meets a passion for authentic wellness. It's an investment in a lifestyle of relaxation, detoxification, and luxury.

Explore our full range and find the perfect traditional sauna for your home.