What is the difference between infrared Sauna and a Finnish Sauna ?
- websitedesignhub
- Mar 1
- 1 min read
Infrared Sauna
Uses infrared heaters to warm your body directly.
Air stays cooler: generally 120–150°F (49–65°C).
Gentle warmth; you can often tolerate longer sessions.
Less humidity — very dry heat.
Traditional Finnish Sauna
Heats the air and surfaces with a stove (electric or wood).
Gets much hotter: typically 170–195°F (75–90°C) (sometimes higher).
You can add steam by splashing water on hot rocks — humidity varies.
Classic “heaty” sauna sensation.
Sweating & Perceived Intensity
Infrared: Sweat starts sooner because heat penetrates tissue efficiently even at lower air temps.
Finnish: Sweating can be intense once the hot air & steam build up — classic sauna feel.
Both promote sweating, but the experience feels quite different.
Comfort & Tolerance
Infrared
Often easier to tolerate for longer (20–40 min).
Great if hot, steamy rooms make you uncomfortable.
Traditional
Some find the higher heat invigorating.
Can be tougher if you’re sensitive to high temperatures.
Experience & Atmosphere
Infrared
Modern, tech-forward vibe.
Usually smaller wooden cabins with benches.
Traditional
Classic sauna ambiance with hot stones, steam, wood or electric stove.
Often social and ritualized (especially in Nordic cultures).
Who It’s Best For
Infrared is great if you:
Don’t like very high temperatures
Want a gentler, more tolerable heat
Enjoy longer sessions without intense steam
Traditional is great if you:
Love classic sauna culture and steam
Want the sensation of hot, dry + humid heat
Enjoy the ritual of rounds with cool-downs
If you would like hire an infrared Sauna or buy one please contact us.
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