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Infrared Sauna vs Traditional Sauna: What’s Actually Different?

The Simple Float Team · 22 October 2026 · 3 min read

Two sauna lovers walk into a room. One asks for more steam. The other asks where the infrared panels are. Both insist their method is the better way to relax.

Welcome to a surprisingly passionate wellness debate: infrared sauna vs traditional sauna.

How a traditional sauna works

Traditional saunas use a heater to warm the air and surrounding surfaces. That hot environment warms the body. Some traditional sauna setups allow water to be poured on heated stones, creating bursts of humidity.

For people who enjoy intense ambient heat and the familiar sauna ritual, this can be a big part of the appeal.

How an infrared sauna works

Infrared saunas use radiant heaters that emit infrared energy. Rather than relying only on very hot air, they transfer heat to your body and nearby surfaces through radiation as well as convection.

Many infrared cabins operate at lower air temperatures than traditional saunas. That doesn't necessarily make the experience gentle for everyone—heat exposure is still heat exposure—but it can feel different.

At Simple Float, our contrast-therapy space uses an infrared sauna.

Which one makes you sweat more?

Sweating depends on temperature, humidity, duration and the person. Some people sweat readily; others take longer. More sweat doesn't automatically equal more health benefits, and sweat isn't a meaningful scorecard for “detox.” Your liver and kidneys handle the bulk of that job.

Is infrared sauna healthier?

Research on sauna exposure is interesting, but many widely shared findings come from studies of traditional Finnish sauna use. Those results should not simply be transferred to every infrared device or protocol.

There's limited evidence for some health outcomes, and more research is needed to establish specific benefits. It is reasonable to enjoy sauna as a relaxation practice without claiming it treats disease.

What does infrared sauna feel like?

Think of it as warming up in a cabin rather than sitting in a room full of very hot air. Some visitors like the atmosphere because they can enjoy heat without the same air-temperature intensity.

If you're new, tell the team, start conservatively and take breaks as needed. If you feel dizzy, nauseated or weak, stop and cool down.

Why combine sauna with cold plunge?

The appeal is the contrast. Warmth can feel soothing, while brief cold exposure can feel alerting. Some people particularly enjoy the transition between the two.

But alternating hot and cold also creates physiological stress, especially with cold-water immersion. People with cardiovascular concerns, blood-pressure problems, pregnancy or other relevant conditions should seek medical advice first.

What should you choose in Dubai?

If you prefer intense traditional sauna heat, look for a facility offering that specific format. If you're curious about infrared sauna in Dubai, a guided first experience may be a good way to decide whether you like it.

At Simple Float in Jumeirah 1, the infrared sauna sits alongside cold plunges in our contrast-therapy space. Ask our team about the experience and the available session options.

Explore infrared sauna and contrast therapy.

The Simple Float Team

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