Infrared vs. Traditional Sauna: Which Is Better?
Updated October 20, 2026 · 2 min read
Sauna lovers can be passionate about their favorite style. Some swear by the intense heat of a traditional Finnish sauna. Others love the gentler warmth of infrared.
So which is better? Let's compare.
New to infrared? Start with What Is an Infrared Sauna?
How Traditional Saunas Work
Traditional saunas use a heater (often with stones) to heat the air. Some let you pour water over the stones to create steam bursts.
What people like:
- Intense, enveloping heat
- Long cultural tradition
- More long-term research
What some people don't love:
- The heat can feel overwhelming
- Hot air can be hard to breathe for some
How Infrared Saunas Work
Infrared saunas use infrared light to warm your body directly, like sunshine on a cool day.
What people like:
- Lower, more comfortable air temperature
- Deep sweat without the intense air heat
- Easier for beginners
- Easier to stay in longer
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Infrared Sauna | Traditional Sauna | |
|---|---|---|
| How it heats | Warms your body directly | Heats the air |
| Typical air temperature | About 120–150°F | About 150–195°F |
| Feel | Gentle, deep warmth | Intense, enveloping heat |
| Typical session | 20–40 minutes | Often shorter rounds |
| Beginner-friendly | Very | Can be intense |
| Long-term research | Growing | More established |
What the Research Says
Much of the long-term research linking sauna use to heart health comes from traditional saunas. Infrared research is newer but growing. Both deliver the core benefit of regular heat exposure.
See Infrared Sauna Benefits for more.
Choose Infrared If…
- You find traditional saunas too hot
- You want longer, more relaxing sessions
- You're new to sauna
Choose Traditional If…
- You love intense heat
- You enjoy steam
The Real Answer
The best sauna is the one you'll use regularly. If infrared feels more comfortable and you look forward to it, that consistency is what counts.
Add Some Cold
Both sauna styles pair well with cold. Try cryotherapy for contrast therapy. Read Contrast Therapy: Pairing Infrared Sauna With Cryotherapy.
Want to see how infrared feels?
Infrared Sauna in New Braunfels, TX
iCRYO New Braunfels is at 717 N Business Interstate Hwy 35 Suite 120, New Braunfels, TX 78130, right on Business I-35 with free on-site parking. We welcome clients from San Marcos, Seguin, Canyon Lake, Schertz, Cibolo and north San Antonio.
Questions? Call (830) 368-2796.
Infrared Sauna FAQs
Is infrared sauna better than traditional sauna?
Neither is better for everyone. Infrared saunas run cooler and feel gentler, while traditional saunas have more long-term research behind them. The best sauna is the one you'll use regularly.
Why do infrared saunas feel cooler?
Infrared saunas heat your body directly instead of heating the air, so the air temperature is lower even though you still sweat.
Do you sweat more in an infrared sauna?
Many people sweat significantly in an infrared sauna, even at lower air temperatures, because the heat warms your body directly.
Which sauna is better for beginners?
Many beginners prefer infrared because the lower air temperature feels more comfortable.
iCRYO New Braunfels Team
The iCRYO New Braunfels team helps clients from San Marcos to north San Antonio look and feel their best.
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Learn more about Infrared Sauna in New Braunfels, TX
View the Infrared Sauna service page →