Saunas have been offering several health benefits for millennia. Now the technology has replaced the manual heating technique by utilizing infrared light wavelengths. Both full-spectrum infrared and only far-infrared wavelengths are being used in such saunas.
So, which one is better in comparison?
In general, far-infrared saunas offer one-dimensional health benefits, while full-spectrum offers additional light therapy benefits. However, far-infrared saunas may be more comfortable than full-spectrum ones. In the end, the decision may vary from user to user, depending on their necessary treatment and comfort.
Let’s discuss them in detail right below:
About Infrared Spectrum
The electromagnetic spectrum contains different wavelengths. We can see a small proportion of this spectrum and call them visible lights. Wavelengths bigger than visible light are invisible to our eyes. The wavelengths between 700 nm to .1 mm are known as the infrared spectrum.
Infrared wavelengths are safer for humans to use. These wavelengths can penetrate deeper into the skin and can reach muscles and joint cells. Moreover, several health benefits can be found from these wavelengths.
Infrared wavelengths are closely related to heat. Whenever there is heat, there are infrared wavelengths. The infrared spectrum can be divided into near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared.
700 – 1300 nm wavelengths are referred to as near-infrared, 1300 – 3000 are considered mid-infrared, and 3000 nm – .1 mm wavelengths are called far-infrared. They contain different health benefits in them.
In general, near-infrared wavelengths contain the least heat, whereas far-infrared wavelengths have the most heating ability. In far infrared light saunas, far-infrared wavelengths are used for generating the most heat, while full spectrum saunas offer the most health benefits.
Let’s discuss them in detail:
Full-spectrum Sauna
As the name suggests, full-spectrum saunas utilize all infrared wavelengths to offer ultimate health benefits. Here, far-infrared and mid-infrared wavelengths are used for heating up the space, while near-infrared wavelengths are offered for health benefits.
The heating wavelengths are mostly used to activate heat shock proteins. These proteins help in healing the body. Additionally, when the user’s body is heated, the increased core temperature makes the body hostile to bacteria and helps the body resist them.
Heating also induces sweating which is an excellent way to detoxify the body. Therefore, the user gets all the benefits of a traditional sauna.
In addition to such benefits, the near-infrared spectrum helps users resolve several other health concerns. Near-infrared wavelengths have anti-inflammatory properties. These wavelengths influence the collagen production in the body to help with several skin conditions.
Moreover, near-infrared influences several hormones in our body. For example, melatonin production is boosted when near-infrared rays fall on our bodies. Therefore, the user can fall asleep quickly, manage stress, and eliminate anxiety and depression.
However, the downside of a full-spectrum sauna is you will need to sit closer to the heat source to receive near-infrared wavelength benefits. It may contain all the necessary light wavelengths but the wrong irradiance.
Far-infrared Sauna
Far-infrared saunas are almost similar to traditional saunas except for the heat source. Here, far-infrared wavelengths are used to heat the space instead of wood or coal.
As far-infrared wavelengths don’t heat up the air, just the user’s body, it is more comfortable than the traditional ones. The users will sweat in this sauna without feeling uncomfortable.
The benefits of this sauna are quite similar to traditional ones. However, prolonged exposure to far-infrared wavelengths can cause internal burns. In most cases, the users may not see any sign of burn from the outside.
So, if you are going to use an infrared sauna, make sure to consult a doctor beforehand. Also, consider your comfort before choosing your preferred sauna experience.
Here is a comparison table for you to consider your choice of sauna:
| Full-spectrum Sauna | Far-infrared Sauna |
| Use all the wavelengths of infrared wavelengths. | 3000 nm – .1mm infrared wavelengths are used in a far-infrared sauna |
| Helps patients with a wide range of physical, mental, and skin conditions | Helps patients with Type II diabetes, chronic heart failure, fatigue, arthritis, and chronic pain. |
| Utilized comparatively less heat | Utilizes temperature between 110 – 130 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Affects mitochondrial function | Activates heat shock protein |
Final Words
Saunas have been offering health benefits for quite a long time. Technological improvements have made it more effective and comfortable to handle. Nowadays, additional therapeutic benefits are provided in saunas by integrating infrared wavelengths.
Infrared saunas help remove toxins from the body, increase blood flow, and activate heat shock protein to boost the immune system and repair body cells. As light wavelengths are used in these saunas, the heat can spread evenly and more effectively.
The difference between far-infrared and full spectrum saunas is their wavelengths. While full spectrums offer better health benefits, you will need to sit closer to the heat sources. Therefore, it can be uncomfortable for you.
On the other hand, far-infrared saunas utilize only far-infrared wavelengths. Thus, you will only have the benefits of traditional saunas but will find more comfort. So, choose the kind of sauna that offers you the most satisfaction and consult a doctor to stay safe while receiving this elegant treatment.
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