The infrared sauna is often marketed as a modern wellness shortcut. At Polaris Sauna, we specialise in authentic outdoor saunas because nothing matches the heat, steam and ritual of a real Finnish-style sauna. This guide explains how infrared saunas differ from traditional saunas in experience, health, costs and longevity.
How an Infrared Sauna Works
- Infrared panels warm the body directly rather than heating the air.
- Typical operating temperature is 40–60 °C.
- Often installed indoors and sized for one to two people.
- Usually plug-and-play on a standard socket.
How a Traditional Sauna Works
- The cabin air is heated by a wood stove or electric heater with stones.
- Typical temperature is 70–100 °C.
- Pouring water on the stones creates steam (löyly) for authentic humidity and heat waves.
- Designed for social use and perfect for the garden environment.
Experience: Atmosphere and Ritual
Infrared Sauna
- Feels like a warm room with radiant panels.
- No steam and no “heat wave” when entering.
- Limited ritual and usually a solo session.
Traditional Sauna
- Intense heat on entry and immediate relaxation.
- Steam on stones changes the climate instantly.
- Hot–cold cycle with shower or plunge completes the ritual.
Bottom line: the traditional sauna is a cultural and social experience. An infrared sauna provides heat without the ritual.
Health Considerations
Infrared Sauna
- Often advertised for relaxation and mild sweating at lower temperatures.
- Evidence for many claimed benefits is limited.
Traditional Sauna
- Supported by Finnish and international studies on cardiovascular and metabolic benefits.
- High heat and steam plus cold exposure provide a stronger training stimulus.
Note: Always consider personal health conditions and consult a professional if unsure.
Costs and Longevity
| Aspect | Infrared Sauna | Traditional Sauna |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Lower | Higher |
| Running cost | Lower electricity use | Electric uses more kWh; wood uses firewood |
| Lifespan | Panels and cabin materials can degrade faster | Solid timber cabins last decades with care |
| Property value | Limited impact | Garden sauna can add lifestyle value and appeal |
Usage Scenarios
When People Choose Infrared
- Very limited indoor space.
- Preference for lower heat.
- Short, individual sessions without ritual.
When People Choose Traditional
- Dedicated garden retreat with family and friends.
- Desire for authentic steam, higher heat and hot–cold cycles.
- Long-term wellness and cultural experience.
Cultural Perspective
Infrared cabins are a recent invention aimed at convenience. Traditional saunas are centuries old in Nordic and Baltic culture. Choosing a real sauna connects you to a proven ritual of heat, steam and recovery that an infrared sauna cannot replicate.
Why Polaris Sauna Does Not Offer Infrared Saunas
- Infrared does not reproduce the steam ritual or atmosphere.
- Health benefits are stronger and better documented for traditional sauna use.
- Our EU-made outdoor saunas are built to last for decades.
We specialise in outdoor models that fit Irish gardens:
- Barrel saunas – efficient heat-up and iconic design. View Barrel Saunas
- Cube saunas – modern lines and a spacious feel. Discover Cube Saunas
- Igloo & Oval saunas – cosy look with strong heat retention. Explore Igloo | Explore Oval
Conclusion
The infrared sauna offers mild heat and easy setup, but it cannot match the intensity, ritual and proven benefits of a traditional sauna. If you want a true garden retreat with steam, high heat and lasting value, choose an authentic outdoor sauna. That is what we deliver at Polaris Sauna: EU craftsmanship, free nationwide delivery in Ireland and optional professional installation.
