The journey to finding the perfect sauna is complex and longwinded. There are so many different styles to choose from and even more brands each claiming to be the best. 

So, let’s simplify things and take it one step at a time. One of the best starting points is choosing between an infrared sauna vs dry sauna. These deliver similar benefits - but the way they work is vastly different. The health benefits each has to offer vary as well.

Infrared saunas use infrared light to directly heat the body, promoting deep tissue penetration that aids in muscle recovery and detoxification. They offer skin-specific benefits as well.

Dry saunas, on the other hand, use electric or wood-burning heaters to warm the air, providing a traditional high-heat environment that enhances cardiovascular health and overall relaxation. 

No matter which of these sauna types you end up choosing, you can count on Nordica Sauna for the top brands and most popular models, all backed by world-class customer service along the way. Shop our infrared sauna or traditional sauna selections today - or, take our quiz below. 

What is the Difference Between Infrared Sauna and Dry Sauna?

Let’s start by unpacking the technology behind each of these options to make it easier to choose between an infrared sauna vs dry sauna.

What is an Infrared Sauna?

This style uses infrared heaters to emit infrared light. This light is then absorbed directly by the skin to create heat. It penetrates the body’s tissues to provide a deeper and more intense sweat at lower temperatures, typically between 120°F and 150°F. 

This type of sauna is known for its therapeutic benefits, including enhanced detoxification, improved circulation, pain relief, and muscle recovery. Infrared saunas are preferred by individuals who find high temperatures uncomfortable but still want to reap the sauna benefits. 

Is infrared sauna safe, though? Yes! The lower operating temperature and deep heat penetration make it accessible and effective for a wider range of users, including those with specific health conditions that may restrict their use of traditional saunas.

If you feel that this is the style that aligns with your needs, you’re in luck - we have the best indoor infrared sauna and outdoor infrared sauna selection online:  

• 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

But before you go look around, let’s introduce the other half of the dry sauna vs infrared sauna debate.

What is a Dry Sauna?

On the other hand, a traditional dry sauna uses electric or wood-burning heaters to raise the temperature of the air within the enclosed space, usually between 150°F and 195°F.  Users can turn a dry sauna into a steam sauna by pouring water over heated rocks to create steam. 

This high-heat environment promotes intense sweating, which detoxifies the body, improves cardiovascular function, and enhances relaxation. The experience in a dry sauna is often more intense due to the higher temperatures and the option to control humidity levels. 

In saying that, dry saunas are ideal if you enjoy the classic sauna experience and can tolerate higher temperatures for shorter periods. This style provides significant benefits for heart health, stress reduction, and overall well-being.

Here at Nordica Sauna, we also have an excellent indoor traditional sauna and outdoor traditional sauna collection to choose from - find your perfect size below:

• 1 person traditional sauna
• 2 person traditional sauna
• 3 person traditional sauna
• 4 person traditional sauna
• 5 person traditional sauna
• 6 person traditional sauna
• 7 person traditional sauna
• 8 person traditional sauna

Really, the only difference between infrared sauna and dry sauna comes down to how it heats the air. Infrared heats indirectly by using light to raise your internal body temperature, while regular dry saunas actually heat the air around you.

This leads to differences in benefits and the experience as a whole, which should make it easier for you to choose between a dry sauna vs infrared sauna. When in doubt, though, you can always reach out for a personalized recommendation!

Infrared Sauna vs Dry Sauna: Which is Better for Your Health Goals?

You may already be leaning one way or the other - but if not, let’s compare and contrast the infrared sauna vs dry sauna side by side. We’ll help you choose the optimal style based on your health goals, preferences, and budget.

Personal Health Goals

Keep in mind that there will be some crossover between these styles in terms of benefits. However, you can narrow down your goals to get more specific about which style is best for you. 

If you’re seeking detoxification and deep muscle relaxation, an infrared sauna may be better.  These operate at lower temperatures but penetrate deep into tissues for a more intense sweat that helps eliminate toxins and improve muscle recovery. This also makes them ideal for managing chronic pain and joint issues.

But if you’re trying to improve cardiovascular health, a dry sauna might be ideal. The higher temperatures increase heart rate and blood circulation, mimicking moderate exercise. 

This can even reduce stress. Plus, the traditional sauna experience of alternating between heat and cold can be invigorating and beneficial for mental health.

Lifestyle and Preferences

Infrared saunas are generally more comfortable for longer sessions due to their lower temperatures. They are perfect for individuals who prefer a gentler heat and want to enjoy their sauna sessions without feeling overwhelmed by high temperatures.

In contrast, dry saunas provide a more intense heat experience. You can also add steam by pouring water over heated rocks to enhance the experience and get additional respiratory health benefits. If you appreciate the classic sauna rituals and enjoy short, intense heat sessions, a dry sauna might be your preferred choice.

Cost Considerations

You may be wondering, how much does a sauna cost? It all depends on the style you choose!While other factors will play a role as well - size, installation, brand, etc. - technology is one of the driving factors.

Infrared saunas tend to be more cost effective both upfront and in the long run. They’re more energy-efficient, which can lead to lower operating costs over time. They usually have a lower initial setup cost as well. 

Meanwhile, dry saunas (especially those with wood-burning heaters) have higher installation and operational costs due to their energy consumption and the need for proper ventilation systems. However, they often have a longer lifespan and require less frequent maintenance, which can offset some of the initial expenses.

Still Not Sure Which is Right For You?

If you’re still unsure which type of sauna is right for you, consider trying out both types at a local spa or wellness center. This eliminates all the guesswork from choosing between a dry sauna vs infrared sauna.

Or, you could take our sauna quiz here at Nordica Sauna for a personalized recommendation. We also have a customer service team on standby ready to talk over your needs and your budget and then help you weigh your options.

So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’ve made your decision or are still on the fence about an infrared sauna vs dry sauna, your next step in this journey awaits at Nordica Sauna!

We Have the Top Brands and Models Whether You Want an Infrared vs Regular Sauna!

Nordica Sauna is your trusted provider of all things sauna, whether you’re looking for a small indoor IR sauna or a massive outdoor traditional barrel sauna. With the best brands, exceptional customer service, and the lowest prices, what more could you ask for?

Why Shop at Nordica Sauna?

We’re on a mission to help you curate your own personal haven at home, empowering you to improve your wellbeing through sauna technology. That means we’ve worked tirelessly to curate the best the industry has to offer.

If it’s in our catalog, you can rest assured it’s going to exceed your expectations. We only carry the most trusted brands like Almost Heaven Sauna, Sunray Sauna, Therasauna, and more. 

These brands use high-quality materials that will stand the test of time and equip their saunas with the latest features, so you’re setting yourself up for the most enjoyable experience possible. 

We offer free shipping on orders over $75 and boast the lowest prices online, helping you stretch your budget further and invest in a premium sauna solution without taking on undue financial stress. 

Plus, your order is backed by our lifetime customer support and a customer satisfaction guarantee. So whether you’re after an ultra low emf infrared sauna or a traditional corner sauna, you can feel confident placing your order with us.

But while you came here looking for insights on the difference between infrared sauna and dry sauna, there are a few other things to consider as well… 

Other Things to Consider Beyond Sauna Technology

From choosing the right brand to picking between an indoor vs outdoor sauna, here are some other things you need to weigh to pick the perfect sauna:

• Size: Ensure the sauna you choose fits comfortably in your designated space and aligns with the number of people you anticipate using the sauna on a regular basis.
• Indoor vs Outdoor: Decide based on available space and preferred ambiance. Indoor saunas offer convenience, while outdoor saunas provide a natural retreat and declutter your home.
• Installation Requirements: Consider the complexity and cost of installation, including ventilation needs for indoor saunas and weatherproofing for outdoor models.
• Aesthetic Integration: Choose a sauna design that complements your home’s decor and enhances its visual appeal.

Tips on Safe Usage

No matter which sauna you choose it’s essential that you know how to use it safely:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna session to prevent dehydration.
• Start Slow: Begin with shorter sessions (10-15 minutes) and gradually increase the duration as your body adapts.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on the sauna temperature and ensure it stays within safe limits (120°F - 150°F for infrared, 150°F - 195°F for traditional).
• Listen to Your Body: Exit the sauna if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or uncomfortable.
• Cool Down Gradually: Allow your body to cool down slowly after a session to avoid sudden temperature changes.
• Rehydrate: Drink water or an electrolyte beverage after your sauna session to replenish lost fluids.

We have more tips on what to wear in a sauna, how to clean a sauna, and more to help you make the most of this investment. But at this point, the only thing left to do is choose between an infrared sauna vs dry sauna at Nordica Sauna today!

Bringing our Comparison of Dry Sauna vs Infrared Sauna to a Close

Choosing between a dry sauna vs infrared sauna depends on your health goals, comfort preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Dry saunas offer intense heat and cardiovascular benefits, while infrared saunas provide deep tissue penetration and detoxification at lower temperatures. 

Both types have unique advantages, but only one is right for you. We hope this guide on the difference between infrared sauna and dry sauna has left you with a clear understanding of which that is. 

Whether you end up choosing an Almost Heaven infrared sauna, a hybrid sauna, a corner infrared sauna, or anything in between, don’t forget that Nordica Sauna has you covered with the top brands and models at the lowest prices online, with unbeatable customer service every step of the way. What else could you ask for in the sauna shopping experience?

Explore our range and make the right choice for your home and health today!