Heat therapy delivers several exceptional benefits to your health. If you want to get outstanding therapy and detoxification, you should invest in the best infrared sauna.
Infrared therapy is well-renowned for keeping skin’s health, relieving sore back and muscles, and it can even aid in weight loss.
However, with all the various sauna models from different manufacturers available today, you might have a hard time picking the best model. To help you with that, this article provides detailed infrared sauna reviews to give you an idea of what each model has to offer.
What is an Infrared Sauna?
Contents
- 1 What is an Infrared Sauna?
- 2 Best Infrared Sauna Reviews – Top Pick Brands on the Market
- 2.1 1. Dynamic Barcelona (2-Person Capacity) Low EMF Infrared Sauna
- 2.2 2. JNH Lifestyles (1-Person Capacity) Joyous Far Infrared Sauna
- 2.3 3. Radiant Sauna (4 Carbon Heaters) Hemlock Infrared Sauna
- 2.4 4. Better Life Carbon Infrared Sauna
- 2.5 5. JNH Lifestyles (2-Person Capacity) Joyous Far Infrared Sauna
- 2.6 6. Radiant Sauna (6 Carbon Heaters) Infrared Sauna
- 2.7 7. Maxxus Lifesauna (2-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
- 2.8 8. Canadian Spa Company (2-Person Capacity) Far Infrared Sauna
- 2.9 9. JNH Lifestyles Joyous (3-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
- 2.10 10. Maxxus Alpine Lifesauna (3-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
- 2.11 11. Dynamic Infrared Maxxus Series (3-Person Capacity) Far Infrared Sauna
- 2.12 12. Radiant Sauna (3-Person Capacity) Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna
- 2.13 13. Maxxus Infracolor (3-Person Capacity) Far Infrared Sauna
- 2.14 14. Better Life (3-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
- 2.15 15. Radiant Sauna (4-Person Capacity) Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna
- 2.16 16. Dynamic Infrared Monaco (6-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
- 2.17 17. Radiant Saunas Harmony Deluxe (1-Person) Portable Sauna
- 2.18 18. Cayenne (4-Person Capacity) Outdoor Infrared Sauna
- 2.19 19. Dynamic Saunas Venice 2 Person Far Infrared Sauna
- 2.20 20. HeatWave Tuscon Monticello 4 Person Infrared Sauna
- 3 The Health Benefits of an Infrared Sauna
- 4 Which types of Saunas you can select for home
- 4.1 Indoor sauna, outdoor sauna, portable sauna, and mobile sauna
- 4.2 Wood-Heated Saunas
- 4.3 “Savu saunas” or Smoke Saunas
- 4.4 Electric Saunas
- 4.5 Infrared Saunas
- 4.6 Steam Baths
- 4.7 Barrel sauna
- 4.8 Manufactured Sauna Rooms
- 4.9 Difference between the infrared and traditional saunas
- 4.10 Carbon fiber infrared sauna vs ceramic infrared sauna
- 5 Common sauna room equipment
- 6 Things Consider Before Choosing Far Infrared Sauna
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Saunas
- 8 Conclusion
A traditional sauna heats your body by means of the heat that is radiated off surfaces in a sauna room. An infrared sauna, on the other hand, has infrared heaters that give off infrared waves. This radiant heat is absorbed by your body and is said to have quite a large number of health benefits.
The interesting thing about an infrared sauna is that the infrared waves penetrates and heats up your skin directly but does not heat up the air itself. They also have lower temperatures than a regular sauna. This makes it easier to use for those people that are not able to tolerate the high heat in a regular sauna.
Best Infrared Sauna Reviews – Top Pick Brands on the Market
To help you pick the best infrared sauna on the market right now, here is a list of top-rated products you should check out.
1. Dynamic Barcelona (2-Person Capacity) Low EMF Infrared Sauna
Dynamic saunas are well-renowned for being engineered through modern technology and high energy efficiency. The Dynamic Barcelona Low EMF Infrared Sauna is among the best infrared saunas Dynamic has to offer.
The Dynamic Barcelona is crafted with energy-efficient carbon heating panels that allow infrared to penetrate the body and remove toxins, ease pain, improve blood circulation, burn calories, and improve skin health.
Dynamic saunas, including Barcelona, can accommodate 1-2 persons. It is also designed to be user-friendly, and it only takes less than an hour to assemble. Therefore, you will enjoy an easy-to-use and highly convenient at-home sauna.
Highlighted Features:
- 1-2 Person Capacity
- With 6 Energy-Efficient Infrared Carbon Heating Panels
- Comes with LED Control Panels
- Includes Music System with Bluetooth Capacity
- This sauna is quick and easy to assemble.
- It is user-friendly.
- It comes with energy-efficient heating panels.
- The music system does not have a radio.
- It is not ideal in small rooms since it’s quite large.
2. JNH Lifestyles (1-Person Capacity) Joyous Far Infrared Sauna
If you are looking for the best infrared sauna that is durable and of excellent quality? You should look into the JNH Lifestyles’ Joyous Far Infrared Sauna. This sauna’s hemlock wood construction offers the utmost flexibility and sturdiness. Its sophisticated wooden craftsmanship would also look exceptional in any room.
The infrared carbon heaters of this sauna promote even distribution of heat. It also features double-wall construction for optimum insulation.
Highlighted Features:
- 1-Person Capacity
- Equipped with 6 Infrared Carbon Heaters
- Double-wall Construction
- With High-Quality Sound System
- LED Lighting
- This sauna is crafted with premium-grade wood construction.
- Its double-wall construction delivers optimum insulation.
- It is easy to assemble and use.
- It is lightweight, thus easy to install or dismantle.
- Only one person can use the sauna at a time, which makes it less energy-efficient.
- Some parts of the wood were not sand down well.
3. Radiant Sauna (4 Carbon Heaters) Hemlock Infrared Sauna
Radiant Sauna prides itself in manufacturing safe, affordable, effective, and top-quality saunas and their Hemlock Infrared Sauna is no exception. If you look up “best infrared sauna consumer reports” on the web, Radiant Sauna products will most likely come up.
This sauna is crafted with premium-quality hemlock wood double-wall construction, which makes it reliable for long term use. This model can also accommodate up to two persons at a time.
The Radiant Sauna Hemlock Infrared Sauna features four infrared carbon heaters. It also features the InfraWave Far heating technology, which allows the carbon heaters to emit low EMF levels. This sauna also features EZ-touch interior and exterior LED control panels for easy temperature control.
Highlighted Features:
- Equipped With 4 Infrared Carbon Heaters
- Double-Wall Hemlock Wood Construction
- Comes With an Auxiliary Cord and Port
- Comes with 2 Speakers
- With EZ-Touch Dual Control Panels
- With Interior Lighting, Backrest, and Air Vent
- This sauna has excellent construction and design.
- It is easy to assemble.
- Good quality at a reasonable price.
- The temperature heats up quickly.
- It can accommodate up to two persons in one use.
- It is quite small.
- There might be a humming sound when the auxiliary cord is plugged in.
4. Better Life Carbon Infrared Sauna
The Better Life Carbon Infrared Sauna is crafted for ease of use at an outstanding value. This sauna offers easy assembly and ultra-convenient operation. It features a dual control panel and LED display for an easy temperature adjustment.
The Better Life Carbon Infrared Sauna also features a lower bench heater and a floor heater with reduced wattage. This sauna also allows you to play music through the MP3 auxiliary jack in the speakers. Lastly, this at-home sauna can be installed anywhere indoors, including the living room, garage, master bathroom, etc.
Highlighted Features:
- Equipped with 6 Energy-efficient Infrared Carbon Heating Panels
- Features a Chromotherapy Mood Lighting
- Comes with 2 Dynamic Speakers
- With Dual Control Panels
- With Roof Vent
- Natural Wood Construction
- Capacity: 1-2 Persons
- Sleek design
- Energy-efficient sauna.
- It can accommodate up to two persons.
- The sound system does not allow Bluetooth connection.
- The instruction manual could be better
5. JNH Lifestyles (2-Person Capacity) Joyous Far Infrared Sauna
JNH Lifestyles is widely acknowledged as one of the best Far infrared sauna models on the market. If you think the previous sauna from this brand mentioned earlier does not meet your requirements, then their Joyous two-persons-capacity Far Infrared Sauna might be the one for you. This sauna model from JNH Lifestyles is more spacious but offers the same exceptional quality from their other models.
This sauna is constructed with Canadian Hemlock wood, which is proven to be sturdy and reliable for long term use. Furthermore, it is also crafted with premium-quality dual speakers for added entertainment.
Highlighted Features:
- Equipped with 7 Infrared Carbon Heaters
- Accommodates Up to 2 Persons
- Double Wall Construction
- Digital Control
- LED Light System
- With In-built Dual Speakers
- This sauna is spacious enough for two people.
- Built with premium wood materials.
- It heats up pretty fast.
- The installation process takes a bit longer.
- Poor customer care support
6. Radiant Sauna (6 Carbon Heaters) Infrared Sauna
This other model from Radiant Sauna features six infrared carbon heaters that promise to deliver optimum heat therapy to users. Like their other saunas, this model also features the InfraWave Far heating technology, which ensures that the heating panels emit ultra-low EMF levels. Thus, if you wish to invest in the best infrared sauna low emf model, this is worth checking out.
It also offers a simple and sleek look with its buckle and Hemlock wood construction. Additionally, this sauna is also guaranteed comfort and durability. Lastly, it also allows you to play your favorite music through its CD and MP3 player with dual speakers.
Highlighted Features:
- Equipped with 6 Carbon Heaters
- Features InfraWave Far Heating Technology
- Accommodates Up to 2 Persons
- Hemlock Wood Construction
- Comes with CD and MP3 Player with Dual Speakers
- It is spacious enough for two people.
- It has six carbon heaters that provide optimum heat therapy.
- The wood construction is sleek-looking and highly durable.
- Very easy to install.
- It takes quite long to heat up.
- The sound system does not work well.
7. Maxxus Lifesauna (2-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
Are you looking for the perfect sauna that would make a great focal point to any room? The Maxxus Lifesauna 2-Person Capacity Infrared sauna is crafted from premium-quality wood construction with optimum durability and stylish look.
This sauna is equipped with five large carbon tech heaters that deliver an optimum heating system. It features a Multi-Spectrum combination of carbon tech and ceramic heaters for exceptional infrared therapy and detoxification.
Crafted with top-quality Canadian wood, the Maxxus Lifesauna (2-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna will withstand the wear and tear of constant long term use.
Highlighted Features:
- Accommodates Up to 2 Persons
- With 5 Large Carbon Heaters
- Features Multi-Spectrum Combo of Carbontech and Ceramic Heaters
- Made from Premium-Quality Canadian Wood
- Built-in MP3 Player and Dual Speakers
- It has enough room for two people.
- Heats up fast.
- Durable and stylish construction.
- Delivers optimum infrared therapy.
- The assembly process is quite tricky.
- Not ideal for heavy users.
8. Canadian Spa Company (2-Person Capacity) Far Infrared Sauna
With the Canadian Spa Company’s Far Infrared Sauna, you can enjoy the benefits of exceptional heat therapy through the newest infrared technology without having to leave your house. This sauna promises to maintain your skin’s health, remove toxins from your system, relieve body pain, and help in weight loss.
The Canadian Spa Company Far Infrared Sauna features six-carbon infrared heaters, LED ChromoTherapy lighting, aromatherapy, and a Bluetooth audio system. Moreover, it is also built using premium Canadian Hemlock wood, which is sturdy and reliable.
Highlighted Features:
- With 6 Carbon Infrared Heaters
- Features LED Chromotherapy Lighting and Aromatherapy System
- With Built-In Bluetooth Sound System
- Accommodates Up to 2 Persons
- Made from Canadian Hemlock Wood
- Excellent quality at a reasonable price.
- Heats up fast
- Spacious enough for two people.
- Looks sleek and stylish in any room.
- The assembly process takes a little while.
- Less privacy due to glass panels.
9. JNH Lifestyles Joyous (3-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
If you are looking for the ultimate family sauna, look no further than the JNH Lifestyles’ Joyous 3-Person Capacity Infrared Sauna. This sauna is built with the most exceptional quality Canadian Hemlock wood, and it is also spacious enough for three people to use it comfortably at the same time.
This sauna is equipped with eight carbon fiber heaters that deliver optimum heating. It also comes with a digital control panel for a convenient temperature adjustment. For added entertainment, this sauna comes with built-in auxiliary control where you can play music through the speakers through your phone.
Highlighted Features:
- Accommodates Up to 3 Persons
- Double-Wall Hemlock Wood Construction
- With 8 Carbon Fiber Heaters
- With Digital Control Panel
- With Built-in Auxiliary Control
- It is spacious and comfortable enough for three people.
- It has a durable and stylish construction.
- It delivers fast and effective infrared heating.
- Installation is a bit tricky.
- The wood could be thicker.
10. Maxxus Alpine Lifesauna (3-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
The Maxxus Alpine Lifesauna Infrared Sauna is one of the best options if you want to get the best infrared sauna for home use. It accommodates up to three persons, and it has six large carbon heaters made from premium-quality wood construction, which is guaranteed durable and stylish.
This sauna promises to deliver ultra-low EMF for your safety. Lastly, it promotes exceptional infrared therapy and detoxifications; hence it is in best infrared sauna consumer reports.
Highlighted Features:
- Accommodates Up to 3 Persons
- With 6 Extra-Large Carbon Heaters
- Features 1 Bio-Ceramic Infrared Heating Panel
- Low EMF
- Built-in Mp3 Auxiliary Connection With Dual Speakers
- Spacious and comfortable for three people.
- Heats up fast.
- It can be installed indoors and outdoors.
- Easy to assemble and use.
- The speakers are not as powerful.
- The price is quite expensive.
11. Dynamic Infrared Maxxus Series (3-Person Capacity) Far Infrared Sauna
The Dynamic Infrared Maxxus Series Infrared Sauna is crafted using reforested Hemlock wood. It has double walls and is constructed with thick-quality interior and exterior wood material. Thus, if you are looking for a sauna that is guaranteed dependable, spacious, and environment-conscious, this one is a great choice.
The Maxxus Series features nine energy-efficient carbon heating panels that heat 30% faster than other sauna models. It also has dual soft-touch control panels and an LED display for convenient temperature adjustment.
Highlighted Features:
- 3-Person Capacity
- Made from Reforested Hemlock Wood
- With 9 Energy-Efficient Carbon Heating Panels
- Dual Control Panels and LED Display
- MP3 and Radio-Capable Audio System with Dual Speakers
- Spacious and comfortable for three people.
- Durable and sleek style.
- Heats up fast.
- As it is quite big, the assembly process takes a bit longer.
- The customer care is not very responsive.
12. Radiant Sauna (3-Person Capacity) Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna
Known for its exquisite look and utmost durability, Canadian red cedar wood is undeniably one of the best wood choices for saunas. Based on numerous home sauna reviews, Radiant Sauna’s Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna is commended for its sophisticated look and exceptional functionality and quality.
This three-person capacity sauna features InfraWave Far Heating technology, which delivers optimum heat therapy with very low EMF emission levels. It is equipped with seven carbon heating panels with a maximum temperature capacity of 141°F. The Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna will give you all the exceptional benefits infrared therapy has to offer.
Highlighted Features:
- Accommodates Up to 3 Persons
- With 7 Carbon Heaters
- Made from Canadian Red Cedar Wood
- Features Exclusive InfraWave Technology
- Built-in Sound System with Dual Speakers
- Roomy and comfortable for three people to use.
- Looks great in any room.
- User-friendly controls.
- Installation is a bit tricky.
- It takes a while to reach the maximum temperature.
13. Maxxus Infracolor (3-Person Capacity) Far Infrared Sauna
This newly upgraded sauna from Maxxus promises to offer the best benefits infrared has to give. The Infracolor Far Infrared Sauna features Carbon Tech and Ceramic heaters to provide optimum detoxification and therapy.
This sauna is equipped with six huge Carbon Tech heaters in which one is a bio-ceramic heater located below the bench. It is also built with Infracolor’s Chromo-Therapy lighting and a Bluetooth-capable audio system with dual speakers.
Highlighted Features:
- 3-Person Capacity
- Equipped with 6 Huge Carbon Tech Heaters
- 1 Bio-Ceramic Heater Under the Bench
- With Chromo-Therapy Lighting System
- Bluetooth-Capable Sound System with Dual Speakers
- It can accommodate up to three people at a single-use.
- Easy to assemble and use.
- Heats up quickly.
- Although the assembly process is straightforward, you will still need a companion to do it as the components are quite heavy.
- It might have some loose connections.
14. Better Life (3-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
The Better Life Infrared Sauna features nine carbon Far infrared heaters that are highly energy-efficient. It also comes with Chromotherapy mood lighting and an audio system with dual speakers. This sauna offers to deliver the ultimate infrared therapy at the comforts of your own home.
The Better Life sauna is one of the best infrared sauna models that offers optimum heat therapy.
Highlighted Features:
- 3-Person Capacity
- With 9 Far Infrared Carbon Heaters
- Features Chromotherapy Lighting System
- Built-in Audio System with Dual Speakers
- This sauna is energy-efficient.
- It accommodates up to three people comfortably.
- Very easy to assemble and use.
- The materials are pretty heavy.
- The installation can be challenging.
15. Radiant Sauna (4-Person Capacity) Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna
If you are looking for an ideal family sauna to invest in, the Radiant Sauna (4-Person Capacity) Cedar Corner Infrared Sauna is the way to go. This sauna is comfortable and durable enough for four people to use it together. Moreover, it also features ten carbon heaters that are strategically installed to deliver utmost infrared therapy. No wonder why tons of infrared sauna reviews include this model as one of the best ones.
For convenient temperature control, this sauna comes with EZ-touch dual control panels. Lastly, for your entertainment, it comes with an in-built audio system with dual speakers.
Highlighted Features:
- 4-Person Capacity
- Equipped with 10 Carbon Heaters
- With EZ-touch Dual Control Panels
- With a Dual-Speaker Audio System
- Maximum Temperature: 140°F
- It has a large user capacity.
- It heats up fast.
- Easy to assemble and use.
- As it is a large sauna, the price is higher than other sauna models.
- Some parts of the wood can easily be damaged.
16. Dynamic Infrared Monaco (6-Person Capacity) Infrared Sauna
The Dynamic Infrared Monaco Infrared Sauna offers a 6-person capacity room space, which makes it the ultimate family sauna. You can enjoy having the best therapy and detoxification together with your family or friends with this massive hot box.
This sauna is engineered with 15 infrared carbon heaters that deliver ultra-low EMF emission. Not only this sauna gives top-quality heat therapy, but it also ensures your safety.
Highlighted Features:
- 6-Person Capacity
- With 15 Infrared Carbon Heaters
- Very Low EMF Emission
- With Control Panel and Remote Control
- 2 Benches
- Built-in Dual Speakers with MP3 Auxiliary Connection
- Very spacious, perfect for six people.
- The heating time is pretty fast.
- Reasonably easy to assemble.
- User-friendly.
- Given all the upgraded features, this sauna is very expensive.
- Very heavy components.
17. Radiant Saunas Harmony Deluxe (1-Person) Portable Sauna
Onto a sauna that is different yet just a good as the other models mentioned in this review. The Radiant Saunas Harmony Deluxe Portable Sauna is an oversized 1-person sauna.
This sauna features four energy-efficient carbon heating panels that deliver very low EMF emissions. It also comes with a hand-held remote control with six automatic timer options. Lastly, it also comes with an air ionizer, which keeps the sauna clean and fresh.
Highlighted Features:
- Oversized 1-Person Capacity Sauna
- With Hand-Held Control
- With 5-Level Pre-Set Temperature Options
- With Air Ionizer
- Moisture-Resistant Polyester Fabric
- It is portable and travel-friendly.
- The air ionizer keeps it clean and fresh.
- It requires minimal assembly effort.
- Very affordable.
- Not as comfortable as the other sauna models mentioned.
- The instruction manual is not helpful.
18. Cayenne (4-Person Capacity) Outdoor Infrared Sauna
Looking for the perfect sauna to install in your backyard? The Cayenne Outdoor Infrared Sauna is perfect for your deck or patio. This sauna can accommodate up to four people comfortably with its long and sturdy wooden bench.
The Cayenne Outdoor Sauna features eight ceramic heaters that heat up quickly. It also comes with interior LED lights, an audio system, and a cup and magazine racks. Thus, you get to enjoy other stuff while you are in the hot box.
Highlighted Features:
- Accommodates Up to 4 Persons
- Engineered with 8 Rapid-Heating Ceramic Heaters
- With Interior LED Lights
- Built-in Audio System
- This sauna is perfect for an outdoor environment.
- It allows four people to use it at the same time comfortably.
- Durable and stylish construction.
- It takes longer to assemble.
- Takes some time to reach high temperatures.
19. Dynamic Saunas Venice 2 Person Far Infrared Sauna
Dynamic Saunas are one of the favorite saunas for families. This is because they offer a wide range of sauna styles and each has different functions.
The Venice sauna model, for instance, is great for new couples as it can only seat 2 people inside. The sauna’s color is also more of a neutral tone to match your house’s interior.
- Has a total of 6 carbon fiber heaters which are efficient in delivering heat to all corners of the sauna
- Emits zero EMF, so harmful radiation is not an issue with this product
- The Canadian Hemlock wood material has a natural finish without any chemical or stain added.
- The door is made from premium tempered glass that has great visibility of the outside view.
- The Venice sauna is a special sauna with chromotherapy. It has a lighting system that changes color to uplift your mood. This way, you are not just detoxifying your body, but you are also getting rid of negative energies by boosting your mood through the frequencies from the lights.
- Users of this sauna said that they feel better in terms of health as the time spent inside the sauna helps improve their blood circulation and muscle pain.
- Also has 2 built-in speakers
- You need an expert hand during assembly of this sauna.
- The sound of the speakers is weak as compared to the premium speakers of other brands.
20. HeatWave Tuscon Monticello 4 Person Infrared Sauna
A presentable corner unit with a lot going for it.
- 10 Carbon heaters
- Unit has a built-in color mood light
- Comes with a CD player with a mp3 plug-in
- Contains a 2120 Watts oxygen ionizer ensuring clean air
- Boasts an interior and exterior LED control panel
- Extras include towel hooks, backrests, and a magazine rack
- Unit is easily assembled
- The back rests do not stay in place
- The 120 volt 20 amp power requirement implies the need of an electrician for final installation
- Power cord may be in a difficult position
- CD player is not the best around but fine for the price
The Health Benefits of an Infrared Sauna
Most infrared sauna reviews tend to tell you about the great product. However, they do not answer certain fundamental questions. The main and most important question should be: What are the health benefits associated with an infrared sauna?
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits associated with an infrared sauna before having a look at some of the best infrared saunas around.
1. Detoxification
One of the most natural ways in which to detoxify the body is through sweating. An infrared sauna heats up your body and makes your core temperature rise. This results in detoxification at a cellular level, where the toxins are usually stored. Infrared saunas have the ability to help you eliminate up to seven times more toxins than traditional saunas.
But what are toxins exactly?
In a nutshell, toxins are any ‘poisonous’ or ‘harmful’ elements that enter the body. This could be by way of what we eat or drink, or even the air we breathe.
2. It improves your circulation
Not only does an infrared sauna increase your core temperature, it also improves your body’s circulation. When your blood circulation improves, your muscles recover quicker, and there is a decrease in both pain, inflammation, and other health issues normally associated with poor blood circulation.
3. It provides pain relief
Besides stimulating blood flow and the associated decrease in pain and inflammation normally associated with bad circulation, infrared saunas also help with pain relief due to muscle and joint strain. This is usually the result of exercise or when overtaxing your body.
4. It helps with weight loss
An infrared sauna session of thirty minutes burns about 600 calories. This is because, when your core temperature increases, so does your heart rate. As a result, your body has to actively work harder at keeping your core level and heart rate down. The result is more calories being burnt, and thus, weight loss.
5. It is great for your skin
Because your circulation increases while toxins are removed during an infrared sauna session, impurities are eliminated from your skin’s pores, leaving it softer and clearer.
6. A great way to relax
Contrary to what is experienced in a regular sauna, an infrared sauna therapy session penetrates your muscles deeply while giving a better relaxation experience at a much lower temperature.
7. It is an immune booster
Infrared sauna therapy boosts your immune system, especially during the process of healing by working at the cellular level. By boosting your immune system, you are less at risk of contracting diseases.
8. It fights cancer
Studies suggest that infrared sauna therapy helps with the fight against cancer.
9. Provides stress relief
Research indicates that infrared sauna therapy works on the body’s parasympathetic nervous system and helps you deal with stress.
Which types of Saunas you can select for home
Many people are under the impression that a dry sauna and a steam sauna are both saunas. This is not really the case. A sauna makes use of dry heat, while a steam sauna is more accurately a steam room. While both use heat, a steam bath operates at a much lower temperature and has a very humid environment. Sitting in a sauna could generally speaking be described as ‘sweat bathing’ due to the high temperatures encountered causing you to sweat.
There are a number of sauna options available.
Indoor sauna, outdoor sauna, portable sauna, and mobile sauna
Depending on your personal needs, you could opt for any one of these three options. Typically, an indoor sauna would be smaller in size while an outdoor sauna would be larger. These types of saunas are also built to certain specifications.
A portable sauna roughly describes any sauna that is easy to take apart and reassemble, although most people think of them as fabric-lined frames that are heated up. They can be constructed and deconstructed virtually anywhere.
Mobile saunas, on the other hand, are smaller saunas that are typically built ‘on wheels’. In other words, on the back of a truck, or trailer. They can be towed around to new locations as needed.
Wood-Heated Saunas
Wood-heated saunas are the most common types of sauna. It features a wood stove and a chimney that will provide ventilation for the smoke emitted by the burning wood. The wood will be placed inside the wood stove and it will be burned similar to a fireplace. Sauna purists consider this traditional method the best way to heat up a sauna.
“Savu saunas” or Smoke Saunas
The Savu Sauna or smoke sauna is a kind of Finnish sauna that does not require a chimney. It works by burning wood in a large stove and the smoke from the burning wood will be made to fill up the room. The smoke heats up the entire room and when it is hot enough, the fire is extinguished and the smoke is ventilated out of the room.
Electric Saunas
As its name suggests, electric saunas are powered by stones that are heated with the use of electricity. This is the preferred kind of sauna for apartment owners as it is a lot less messy than a wood-heated sauna.
Electric saunas are very easy to use. A push of a button is all that’s needed in order to start heating the room. It doesn’t require wood and can work well as long as there is electricity.
What’s not so great about electric saunas is that it adds up to the electric bill of course. Some people also expressed dislike for this kind of sauna because it doesn’t have that authentic sauna feel that wood-heated and Savu saunas have.
Infrared Saunas
An infrared sauna heats your body much the same way as the sun does. This makes it vastly different to more traditional saunas where the air is heated to a high temperature and the air, in turn, heats your body.
There are two types of infrared saunas: far infrared saunas and near infrared saunas. The question is, what is the difference? It mainly has to do with the light spectrum.
Near infrared
About half of the sun’s energy is released in the near infrared spectrum. Our bodies use this energy to make vitamin D in order to be healthy. Near-infrared saunas are great for the skin, gives relief from pain, raises the core temperature of your body, and helps to improve your body’s circulation.
Far infrared
Far infrared works just like near infrared except that it works on a different wavelength. Besides the benefits of near infrared, far infrared also helps relieve stress, boosts your immune system, helps with weight loss, increases your metabolism, and detoxifies your body.
Steam Baths
Steam baths use heated water in order to draw out the toxins from the body. A person would normally submerge his body in a shallow pool of heated water in order to get rid of the toxins in the body. In some cases, steam baths do not require the person to submerge himself in the water. Instead, they are only encouraged to stay inside the room where steam would permeate the room.
Barrel sauna
As the name suggests, a barrel sauna is shaped like a barrel. Heat is derived from either an electric source or an outside wood source.
Manufactured Sauna Rooms
Manufactured sauna rooms are rooms that come built in with the things needed in a sauna. Some are made with wood-heating capabilities while others are made using electric saunas. Rooms like this are usually small and detached from the house.
Difference between the infrared and traditional saunas
According to some infrared sauna reviews, the traditional saunas differ greatly from For one, infrared saunas do not use fire to make the body feel heated. It also does not need to be constantly watched as it regulates itself automatically.
Another difference between traditional and infrared saunas is that the surroundings don’t feel hot in infrared saunas. The light waves from an infrared source would heat up the body directly to its core so it does not need to make the entire room feel hot to be effective.
Traditional saunas are also more cumbersome to build, use and maintain. Infrared saunas are easy to use and won’t require a lot of wood in order to function properly.
Carbon fiber infrared sauna vs ceramic infrared sauna
These are the two heating systems commonly used in an infrared sauna. The difference is what they are made of.
Carbon fiber heating systems generally have a few advantages over a ceramic heating system:
- Even distribution of heat
- Provides more heat coverage
- Has a lower surface temperature
- Penetrates deeper into the skin
- Is more energy efficient
Common sauna room equipment
In order to make your sauna room experience a pleasant one, you may need some basic equipment, depending on the type of sauna you choose.
Firstly, if going with a traditional steam sauna, you need a sauna heater. Different options are available, depending on the type you choose. If you choose a more traditional variety of sauna room, you will need a sauna heater stove to provide heat. Add to this a sauna bucket to hold your water, and a sauna ladle with which you can pour water over hot sauna rocks in order to create a wealth of soothing, hot steam. While you are at it, do not forget your special sauna backrest for your seating comfort. Picking the right one is important when it comes to your comfort.
The best sauna rocks are igneous rocks such as granite, diorite, and andesite. They all contain iron and magnesium, which means they are great at conducting heat. Another type that also works well is black basalt.
Another important piece of equipment is your sauna thermometer. This allows you to determine the temperature you want, without you ending up boiled from the heat. Remember, things can get too hot for comfort!
If you have a dry sauna, a basic thermometer is fine, but a steam sauna may need a thermometer (to measure temperature) as well as a hygrometer so that you can gauge the humidity in the sauna. If the humidity is above 35%, it means that your rocks are not warm enough.
Then, lastly, your lighting. Sauna lights are important in creating the perfect ambience and atmosphere to any sauna experience. Here, you can allow your imagination to go wild, and select either overhead lighting, floor lighting, or even indirect lighting. There are many options to choose from, giving you the experience you both want and deserve.
But expand the luxury…
Ply your hot sauna stones with special herbs, oils, and salts to further enhance your mood or even for healing purposes.
There are a number of sauna oils you can use to make your sauna experience even more special, but do take care, as undiluted sauna oil is very strong and may do more harm than good. Typically, you would four drops of essential oil to a liter of water and use this to splash onto your sauna stones. The benefits of sauna oils include:
- They can top the signs of aging
- Heal certain skin problems
- Improve your hormones
- Help with pain management
- Fight the symptoms of colds and flu
- Relax you
- Help ease sore muscles
- Improve digestion
Sauna herbs are also of great benefit, especially for healing purposes, and can be used for many ailments, such as insomnia, stress, depression, and even the common cold! The herbs can either be infused into the water you use on your hot stones, or placed onto the hot sauna rocks directly. Either way, you get the benefit.
The great thing about using herbs in your sauna is that the steam opens your pores, allowing the oils released from the herbs to penetrate your skin and do their work. Using lavender, for instance, helps to get rid of anxiety, helps you relax, and also has a positive effect on depression. But it does not stop with lavender. There are many herbs to choose from. Each has their own benefits.
Using Himalayan Salt of part of your spa experience leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, while the healing benefits are varied, e.g. it is relaxing, clears the head, and may also help combat anxiety. This is a relaxation aid to die for.
Of course, nothing tops up a sauna experience like a nice shower and drying off with a sauna towel. If you are going to be sharing the sauna experience, you might consider wrapping yourself in one while enjoying yourself. Either method, i.e. sitting in the sauna without a towel, or with one, is fine. That is your choice alone. Just make sure your towels are large and fluffy, giving you that extra luxury experience.
Things Consider Before Choosing Far Infrared Sauna
1. Capacity & Dimension
Infrared saunas are usually designed to fit up to three people inside. Anything bigger will also require installation of additional heating. Consider the number of people that will use the sauna before buying one. The dimensions of a sauna should also be considered. If it is intended to fit 3 persons at a time the dimensions have to be bigger.
2. Type of Heaters
Heaters comes in carbon, ceramic and mica. Chose the right type of heater that suit your needs and budgets. Ceramic heaters are fairly inexpensive but can provide uneven distribution of heat. Carbon is more expensive but provides a more even distribution of heat.
3. Heating Surface Area
Wider heating surface areas are better than smaller ones. They heat up faster the smaller surface areas. Just remember to factor in the cost of a wider heating area before buying one.
4. Build materials
Consider only using the best building materials in order to get the most out of your sauna. Cedar wood is a good choice in building materials according to some infrared sauna reviews.
5. Potential Toxins
Heat from the sauna could melt the glue that holds the wood together. These could contain toxic fumes when inhaled. Purchase infrared saunas from reputable manufacturers to avoid inhaling or absorbing potentially dangerous toxins used with constructing the sauna.
6. Heater Covers
Heater covers should adequately cover the heat source so that it does not come in contact with the skin of the occupant. Ensure that heaters are covered properly prior to use. Find good types of cover and not cheap ones that break easily.
7. Safety
Again, make sure to get infrared saunas from reputable sources. These manufacturers have standards that they follow in order to build their saunas. Look for companies that are ISO certified or CE certified. Other certifications are also available so be sure to check those out too.
8. Warranty
Like every other appliance infrared saunas can also experience wear and tear with continued use. Many experts recommend checking the warranties carefully before purchasing to ensure that your unit is covered in case in breaks or parts of it need to be replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infrared Saunas
1. Is it safe to use the sauna everyday?
Yes, it is safe to use the sauna every day, but you need to limit the time spent inside the sauna. To avoid any health problems, make sure to use the sauna only 15 minutes daily. It is also recommended to consult your doctor beforehand and ask for a go signal.
2. Do saunas help with acne?
There is no direct connection between sauna and acne. However, one of the benefits of using a sauna is improving skin conditions.
On the other hand, some people believe that the sauna makes acne worse because you sweat a lot in saunas. But experts have debunked this belief saying, sweating actually helps lessen breakouts because it flushes out the clogged pores on your face.
The key here is to know your temperature. Don’t set the sauna to the highest temperature if you have acne to avoid irritating the skin even more.
3. Is it safe to use the iPhone while sitting in the sauna for 20 minutes?
Some smartphones like the iPhone have a certain temperature ambient that allows you to use the phone up to 35-degree Celsius.
In the sauna environment, the temperature can go as high as 40-degree Celsius. Thus, it is much better to just leave your iPhone outside.
Also, isn’t it the reason why you want to use the sauna is for you to relax and unwind? You cannot do that with an iPhone in hand.
4. What are the best temperatures for a sauna?
It actually depends on your preference. But most saunas have heat temperature range between 120-degree to 175-degree Fahrenheit.
Experts suggest you avoid using saunas at a very high temperature on a regular basis. It is more effective to alternate the temperatures; like go for a high temperature 4 times a week and the other days, you just have the medium temperature.
5. How can a sauna affect a sunburn?
At first, you’d think that the sauna can worsen your sunburn. But truth be told, sauna actually produces soft heat that stimulates your skin to produce new cells. Hence, in the long run, sauna actually helps reduce the pain from sunburn and improve its appearance.
Conclusion
There you go – those are the 18 top-rated infrared sauna reviews to guide you with your buying decision.
With all the fantastic features and benefits each sauna model mentioned in this review offers, the Dynamic Barcelona 2-Person Capacity Low EMF Infrared Sauna provides everything you need in the best home sauna. It has a good user capacity of up to two persons, it is energy-efficient, emits very low EMF levels, reliable construction, and is priced reasonably.
In comparison with other sauna models mentioned, such as the Huron 2-Persons Capacity Infrared Sauna, both models offer almost the same features. However, Dynamic Barcelona is much affordable and is more energy-efficient.
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