Far Infrared Sauna vs. Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna: What’s the Difference?

Infrared saunas have revolutionized the wellness industry, offering a gentler, more targeted way to detox, relax, and improve overall health. If you’re considering adding one to your home or routine, you’ve likely encountered two popular types: Far Infrared Saunas and Full-Spectrum Infrared Saunas. While both provide health benefits, their heating mechanisms, therapeutic effects, and user experience differ significantly.

This guide will explore the key differences, helping you choose the sauna that best fits your lifestyle and wellness goals.

Infrared saunas use infrared light to heat the body directly rather than warming the air like traditional saunas. This creates a more comfortable environment with lower ambient temperatures, typically between 120°F and 150°F, allowing for longer, more enjoyable sessions. (If you want to learn more about the difference between infrared saunas and traditional saunas, explore our guide: Infrared Sauna vs. Traditional Sauna: Which One is Right for You?)

Types of Infrared Light

Infrared light is divided into three categories based on its wavelength:

1. Near Infrared (NIR): Short wavelengths that target the skin’s surface.
2. Mid Infrared (MIR): Medium wavelengths that penetrate muscles and joints.
3. Far Infrared (FIR): Long wavelengths that penetrate deeply into the body, targeting internal tissues.

Far infrared saunas focus exclusively on far infrared waves. These waves penetrate 1.5 inches (4cm) into the body, providing deep, soothing heat that promotes sweating and detoxification without making the surrounding air uncomfortably hot.

Key Benefits

Deep Detoxification
Far infrared waves stimulate sweating, helping eliminate toxins and heavy metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium.

Pain Relief
The deep penetration relaxes muscles and joints, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.

Stress Reduction
Far infrared saunas activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and lowering cortisol levels.

Improved Circulation
Heat from far infrared waves dilates blood vessels, enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Far infrared saunas are best suited for those who want targeted benefits like detoxification, pain relief, and relaxation. They’re also an excellent choice for those sensitive to high temperatures.

Full-spectrum infrared saunas utilize near, mid, and far infrared waves, providing a comprehensive approach to infrared therapy. Each wavelength offers unique benefits, targeting different layers of the body.

Key Benefits

Near Infrared (NIR)

• Promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation.
• Stimulates collagen production, improving skin elasticity.
• Penetrates the skin’s surface to provide light therapy benefits.

Mid Infrared (MIR)

• Enhances blood circulation and supports cardiovascular health.
• Relieves joint pain by penetrating muscles and connective tissues.

Far Infrared (FIR)

• Provides all the deep-tissue benefits of far infrared waves, such as detoxification and relaxation.

Full-spectrum saunas are ideal for those seeking a wider range of wellness benefits including skin health and improved circulation to detoxification and pain relief.

Choose Far Infrared Sauna If

• Your primary goals are detoxification and relaxation.
• You prefer a simpler, cost-effective sauna experience.
• You’re sensitive to higher heat levels and want a more comfortable session.
  

Go For Full-Spectrum Infrared Sauna If

• You want a broader range of health benefits, including skin rejuvenation and cardiovascular support.
• You’re looking for a sauna that can cater to multiple wellness goals.
• You’re willing to invest in advanced technology for a more versatile experience.

1. Are Full-Spectrum Saunas Better Than Far Infrared Saunas?

It depends on your needs. Full-spectrum saunas offer a wider range of benefits, but far infrared saunas excel in targeted detoxification and relaxation.

2. Do Full-Spectrum Saunas Get Hotter Than Far Infrared Saunas?

Yes, full-spectrum saunas tend to operate at slightly higher temperatures to accommodate near and mid infrared waves.

3. Are Full-Spectrum Saunas Worth the Extra Cost?

If you’re looking for a sauna that addresses multiple wellness goals, the additional investment in a full-spectrum sauna can be worthwhile.