An infrared sauna can be a powerful investment in your home, health, and happiness. This modern take on heat therapy is among the most affordable, accessible ways to tap into the benefits of saunas.
Here at Nordica Sauna we’ve come to be known as the #1 choice for an infrared sauna for sale - and a lot of that comes down to our commitment to helping our customers understand all the different options at their disposal and choose the best infrared saunas for home use.
That said, what’s the difference between full-spectrum and far-infrared sauna? We’re here to get to the bottom of the full-spectrum vs far-infrared sauna debate to leave you with complete clarity as to which suits your needs.
The short answer is that a far-infrared sauna provides deep tissue heating for detox and relaxation, whereas a full-spectrum sauna offers this and a whole lot more - like relief from aches and pains, skin support, better circulation, etc.
It comes down to the specific wavelengths you’re bringing to your body. There are other nuances in choosing between a far-infrared vs full-spectrum sauna, though. So read on below, or better yet, get in touch with our team for a personalized recommendation.
We also have a sauna buying guide if you want more tips on picking the perfect sauna, and you can take our intuitive sauna quiz below to eliminate the guesswork! It’s time to bring the benefits of sauna into your home.
| Wellness Benefit | Far-Infrared Sauna | Full Spectrum Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Detoxification | Excellent for deep sweat and toxin elimination | Excellent, with added mid-IR support for tissue heating |
| Muscle & Joint Recovery | Strong due to deep tissue penetration | Strong, with mid-IR helping circulation and near-IR supporting repair |
| Skin Health & Rejuvenation | Mild benefit through sweating | Near-IR supports collagen and surface cell regeneration |
| Circulation Support | Steady and consistent improvement over time | Enhanced through multiple wavelengths and heat variation |
| Stress Relief & Relaxation | Calm, gentle, and accessible for beginners | More stimulating—some may find near-IR invigorating, not relaxing |
What’s the Difference Between Full-Spectrum and Far-Infrared Sauna?
There are so many different types of saunas these days, and infrared technology is becoming the most popular not just because it’s more affordable. It uses invisible light waves to gently heat the body directly, without warming the air around you like traditional saunas.
This allows the sauna to achieve a similar effect at much lower temperatures for a more comfortable experience. Not all IR saunas are the same, though.
The difference between full-spectrum and far-infrared sauna is actually really simple - it’s just a matter of different wavelengths being emitted. There are three main classifications of infrared light: near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and far-infrared (FIR).
Each wavelength penetrates the body to a different depth and activates different physiological responses. Understanding how each of these wavelengths works can help you determine which sauna setup best supports your wellness goals.
Overview of Far-Infrared Saunas
As the name suggests, these saunas only emit the far end of the infrared spectrum (usually between 5.6 to 20 microns). This wavelength penetrates the body deeper than near or mid-infrared, gently warming muscle tissue and helping you work up a sweat at lower temps.
These saunas rely on carbon fiber or ceramic heating panels to produce even, consistent heat across the space. They’re very energy efficient and super comfortable. We recommend these to anyone looking for deep relaxation, detoxification, and recovery at an accessible price point.
Just know you’re missing out on a wide spectrum of other infrared light wavelengths. That’s where the other half of the far-infrared vs full-spectrum sauna comes into play.
Overview of Full-Spectrum Infrared Saunas
Full-spectrum infrared saunas combine the benefits of far-infrared light therapy with near- and mid-infrared wavelengths. This is the most comprehensive sauna experience possible.
These saunas rely on more advanced heating systems, typically combining different element types like LEDs or halogen bulbs for near-infrared and carbon or ceramic panels for mid and far-infrared.
This delivers a layered experience with surface-level stimulation, muscular relief, and deep tissue heating. In other words, it’s the best balance possible in infrared sauna therapy.
Be aware that this type of experience comes at a cost, though. Full-spectrum saunas are usually more expensive than far-infrared saunas. This is just one thing you’ll need to consider in choosing between a far-infrared vs full-spectrum sauna.
What About Near-Infrared Saunas?
We want to quickly touch on a different wavelength you may come across - and one you’ll get in a full-spectrum sauna as well. Near-infrared saunas emit shorter wavelengths (typically 0.7 to 1.4 microns) that don’t work deep into the muscles. They just affect the outer skin layers.
These wavelengths are commonly used to support cell regeneration, skin health, and wound healing, but you won’t really get the same infrared sauna experience. That’s why for the sake of today’s conversation we’ll focus just on full-spectrum vs far-infrared sauna differences.
Full-Spectrum vs Far-Infrared Sauna: Which Style is Right For You?
Ultimately, choosing between a far-infrared vs full-spectrum sauna comes down to your specific goals. You also need to account for potential risks, most notably with a full-spectrum infrared sauna, and differences in cost. We’ll help you weigh all these variables below.
Key Benefits
This is what matters most in choosing between a far-infrared vs full-spectrum sauna. Compare and benefits across each style below to see where they overlap and where they differ:
| Wellness Benefit | Far-Infrared Sauna | Full Spectrum Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Detoxification | Excellent for deep sweat and toxin elimination | Excellent, with added mid-IR support for tissue heating |
| Muscle & Joint Recovery | Strong due to deep tissue penetration | Strong, with mid-IR helping circulation and near-IR supporting repair |
| Skin Health & Rejuvenation | Mild benefit through sweating | Near-IR supports collagen and surface cell regeneration |
| Circulation Support | Steady and consistent improvement over time | Enhanced through multiple wavelengths and heat variation |
| Stress Relief & Relaxation | Calm, gentle, and accessible for beginners | More stimulating—some may find near-IR invigorating, not relaxing |
Potential Risks
We get asked all the time, are infrared saunas safe? They certainly can be! You just need to know how to use them correctly to avoid the risks associated with dehydration and heat exhaustion.
But since IR saunas work at lower temperatures, there is a lower likelihood of these issues than with a traditional sauna. Still, there are some full-spectrum infrared sauna dangers we’ve seen brought up over the years.
This is mostly the result of near-infrared bulbs producing localized heat, which may pose risks for users with photosensitivity, implants, or cardiovascular conditions if not used appropriately.
On the other hand, far-infrared saunas emit longer wavelengths that are gentler and penetrate deeply without intense surface heat. They won’t cause any sort of issues with skin, either, something that may be a concern with a near-infrared sauna and thus, a full-spectrum sauna.
Cost, Complexity, and Setup
It’s no secret that saunas can be expensive. But infrared saunas are the most affordable, accessible option as far as costs go. Still, which is the better budget pick between a full-spectrum vs far-infrared sauna?
Far-infrared saunas tend to be simpler, more affordable, and easier to install. Many models use standard 120V outlets so they’re perfect for first-time users or smaller spaces.
On the other hand, full-spectrum saunas are priced at a premium to reflect their multi-element heating systems. Many of these call for a 240V connection which can complicate the installation process, too.
You shouldn’t make this decision based solely on cost alone, though. You may be wondering, are infrared saunas worth it? Absolutely! This is one of the best investments you can make in your home, health, and happiness.
That said, the far-infrared sauna style does offer better value for the money if all you’re looking for is relaxation, detoxification, and better muscle recovery. For the most comprehensive experience, though, you’ll want to invest in a full-spectrum sauna.
So, Which is Better: Far-Infrared or Full-Spectrum Sauna?
Hopefully you have a clear understanding of which best suits your needs and budget between a full-spectrum vs far-infrared sauna at this point. A far-infrared sauna is the best choice for simplicity, comfort, and deep-tissue detox.
On the other hand, a full-spectrum infrared sauna is more versatile, albeit more expensive. It can bring additional benefits to every session like skin health, joint support, and circulation.
Only you can determine which is better, far-infrared or full full-spectrum sauna. We can certainly help you make the right choice, though. Get in touch with the experts at Nordica Sauna for a personalized recommendation right now!
Nordica Sauna Has You Covered With a Full-Spectrum OR Far-Infrared Sauna!
Whether you’re drawn to the targeted intensity of full-spectrum infrared or the gentle, deep heat of far-infrared, Nordica Sauna brings you both without compromise. We carry only the most respected, proven brands in the industry like Almost Heaven, Finnmark, and Golden Designs.
That means no matter what you purchase at Nordica Sauna you can rest assured you’re getting a sauna that will work wonderfully as an integral part of your self-care ritual, and stand the test of time. You can narrow it down based on size:
- 1 person infrared sauna
- 2 person infrared sauna
- 3 person infrared sauna
- 4 person infrared sauna
- 5 person infrared sauna
- 6 person infrared sauna
- 8 person infrared sauna
All our models incorporate thoughtfully added features like ergonomic seating, chromotherapy lighting, Bluetooth sound systems, app-based controls, and sleek, space-conscious designs.
Your sauna shopping experience is backed by world-class customer service, a price match guarantee, free shipping, financing options, and HSA/FSA eligibility in some cases.
Shop now or reach out for one-on-one support not just in choosing between a full-spectrum vs far-infrared sauna, but a tailored recommendation on the exact model that best suits your needs.
Wrapping Up Our Comparison of Far-Infrared vs Full-Spectrum Sauna
The right infrared sauna isn’t about more heat or more features. It’s a matter of aligning the sauna to your wellness goals. That’s what it boils down to in choosing between a full-spectrum vs far-infrared sauna.
Far-infrared saunas offer simplicity and deep relaxation, while full-spectrum units provide a broader therapeutic range. Both are effective, so just think about what you want from the experience.
Whether you’re on the market for an indoor infrared sauna or outdoor infrared sauna, Nordica Sauna is here to help you get set up with the ideal match for your goals and budget.
It all starts with a conversation, so connect with our experts today and we’ll help you weigh your options! Or, you can take our sauna quiz below to narrow it down.
